Which term describes the non-violence principle shared by Buddhism and Hinduism?

• A. Ahimsa
• B. Dharma
• C. Karma
• D. Moksha

Answer: (A)

Non-violence toward all living beings is a foundational ethical idea in both Hinduism and Buddhism, centered on avoiding harm and cultivating compassion. The term that names this principle is Ahimsa. In Hindu thought, ahimsa is a key virtue connected with righteous living and peaceful conduct across many traditions. In Buddhism, the commitment to not harming others appears in core ethical guidelines that encourage compassion and non-harm toward all beings. This shared emphasis on refraining from violence is what links the two traditions on this issue.

Dharma refers to the right way of living or cosmic law, but it covers a broader sense of duty and righteousness beyond just non-violence. Karma means the action-to-consequence principle, explaining how conduct affects future outcomes, not specifically the practice of non-harm. Moksha is liberation from the cycle of rebirth, a goal rather than a practice of non-violence.