what about milk

In Jainism, the consumption of milk and dairy products is a topic of ethical and spiritual consideration, especially in light of the fundamental principle of ahimsa (non-violence).

Traditional View: Historically, many Jain lay followers have consumed milk and dairy products, as they were considered to involve less direct violence compared to eating meat, eggs, or root vegetables. In ancient times, cows were often treated gently, and milk was taken only after the calf was fed.

Contemporary View: In modern times, many Jains, especially among the ascetic orders (munis and sadhvis), choose to avoid milk and all dairy products. This is because industrial dairy production often involves harm to animals, such as separating calves from mothers, slaughtering animals when they are no longer productive, and other forms of suffering. Thus, consuming such products is considered a violation of ahimsa.

Jain Ascetics: Most Jain monks and nuns (both Digambara and Śvetāmbara traditions) strictly avoid milk and all dairy products as part of their vows of non-violence.

Lay Followers: Many lay Jains are increasingly adopting a vegan lifestyle, avoiding all forms of animal products, including milk, out of compassion for animals and adherence to ahimsa.

Summary:

• Strict Jains, especially ascetics, avoid milk and dairy.
• Many lay Jains are moving towards veganism.
• The key consideration is minimizing harm (ahimsa) to all living beings.

If you are considering Jain dietary practices, it is encouraged to reflect upon the principle of ahimsa and make choices that align with minimizing harm to all living beings.