Is there a spelling mistake? Why do some books spell the Buddha's teachings as Dhamma, whereas some spell as Dharma? Similarly, is it Kamma or Karma?
It should be understood that both are correct spelling, and at times, the different formats are used interchangeably.
The words Dhamma, Kamma, etc are in Pali language whereas Dharma, Karma are in Sanskrit.
Both were languages used in Nepal and India from olden times, though Pali language is the closest and most original form of the language spoken during the Buddha's time. Pali language is used by the Theravadin tradition, in both the scriptures and suttas chanting. Sanskrit could be found extensively in Mahayana texts.
Dhamma / (Dharma)
Kamma / (Karma)
Sutta / (Sutra)
Nibbana / (Nirvana)
Gotama / (Gautama)
It was the impression of many that a "true" Buddhist should not eat meat. Certain Buddhist traditions (e.g. Mahayana, or Chinese Buddhism) actually practise vegetarianism.
The intention of vegetarianism is actually of a noble one - out of compassion for all sentient beings, human beings should try not to consume flesh of other animals.
However, many Theravadin tradition monastic orders do not impose strict vegetarianism; that is why it can be observed that Thai monks for example, can eat meat (Note that many of these monks have to go on alms rounds every morning, and have to accept whatever food that is given by devotees). Many debates and questions were raised on this issue. Now, should it be or not?
In the Samyutta Nikaya, the Buddha covered the topic on vegetarianism:-
"... I have declared that one should not make use of meat if it has been seen, heard or suspected to have been killed on purpose for a monk. I allow the monks meat that is quite pure in 3 respects: if it is not seen, heard or suspected to have been killed on purpose for a monk."
Being a vegetarian alone does not necessary means a worthy cause; if one's action, speech and thoughts are impure despite being a vegetarian, what good does it do? The Buddha also made this point clear:-
"Taking life, beating, cutting, binding, stealing, lying, fraud, deceit, pretence at knowledge, adultery; this is uncleanliness and not the eating of flesh."
Of course, going to a seafood restaurant to order a fish will not be covered under what the Buddha had said - you jolly well know that there are life fishes swimming in the fish tanks, and when you place an order, one of the fish is definitely going to be.
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