Answer

Yes, red lentils — commonly called masoor dal — are generally allowed in Jainism, as they are a type of pulse/legume and are not considered a root vegetable.

Explanation

In Jain dietary practice, foods are avoided especially when they involve:

• Root vegetables such as potatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, etc.
• Foods with higher possibility of subtle living organisms
• Fermented or stale foods in stricter practice
• Foods eaten after sunset in traditional discipline

Since red lentils grow as seeds/pulses and are not uprooted root vegetables, they are generally acceptable for Jains.

However, practice may vary by family, sect, level of discipline, or during special observances like Paryushan, Ayambil, or certain tapasya periods.

Spiritual Understanding

The Jain diet is guided by Ahimsa — minimizing harm to living beings. Pulses like lentils are usually accepted because they are part of a vegetarian diet and do not require uprooting an entire plant in the same way root vegetables do.

Takeaway

Red lentils/masoor dal are generally allowed in Jain food, but if you follow a strict family, temple, or tapasya rule, it is best to follow that discipline.