Acharya Prashant explains that the essence of Sanatana Dharma is the welfare of consciousness, which is not limited to human beings but extends to all living creatures. He emphasizes that consciousness is fundamentally the same in its original form across all species, characterized by the experience of pain and bondage. Whether it is a hen, a deer, or a cow, the suffering they feel is identical to that of a human. Therefore, a true follower of Vedanta recognizes that the consciousness in another being is no different from their own. To cause pain or death to another sentient being is an act of ego, as it stems from the false belief that their consciousness is separate and inferior. Acharya Prashant asserts that one cannot truly seek their own liberation while simultaneously causing suffering to others, as violence toward any being is ultimately violence toward oneself. Referring to the teachings of Kabir Saheb, Acharya Prashant highlights the saint's vocal opposition to animal sacrifice and meat-eating. Kabir Saheb challenged even the scriptures if they were used to justify animal slaughter, arguing that if killing an animal could lead to heaven, then the person performing the act should offer their own neck first. Acharya Prashant dismisses common justifications for meat-eating, such as the claim that plants also have life. He points out that even from an environmental and compassionate standpoint, consuming meat causes far more destruction to plant life because of the vast amount of vegetation required to raise livestock. He concludes that recognizing every living being as a person with a fundamental right to life is a mark of higher consciousness and true civilization.