An article entitled "Tofu Comes West: The Spread of Vegetarianism from Asia's Religions" appeared in the most recent issue of Vegetarian Voice (vol. 23, no. 1, 1998). This interesting article profiled several Westerners whose exposure to Asian cultures led them to adopt vegetarian beliefs, lifestyles, or businesses. Some Eastern religions advocate or require vegetarianism of their followers, and their belief systems are consonant with vegetarianism, perhaps more so than the Judeo-Christian tradition. A quote from the article:

"Western religions view time as linear, as a progression from A to Z. People start with conception or birth, then end with death, which may encompass heaven, hell, or some other state (or "un-state") of final being. On the other hand, the four vegetarian religions [Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism, and Jainism] view time as unfolding in ever-recurring cycles, with souls constantly reincarnating into new bodies on Earth. This has strong implications for their attitude towards animals. People who view time as a straight line too often perceive animals as road-kills on the superhighway to heaven, mere episodes on life's upward journey. In contrast, followers of religions that view time cyclically believe that animals are potential vehicles for the soul's reincarnations, fellow travelers on a circular highway that returns upon itself."

The article is written by Rynn Berry, whose new book, Food for the Gods: Vegetarianism and the World's Religions, is reviewed in the same issue. This issue of VV carries a number of other informative and thought-provoking articles, including the following: an update on food disparagement laws by attorney Anna Charlton; an article on raw foods diets along with profiles of people who eat this way, and recipes; the story of Brenda Grace, a rescued pig; a new column by Joanne Stepaniak giving practical advice on vegetarian living; an article on exercise; a profile of Ken Bergeron, chef at the Vegetarian Summerfest; and regular features such as news briefs, book reviews, and a mail order catalog of books and merchandise. Three of the articles are accompanied by recipes. This excellent publication is a benefit of membership in the North American Vegetarian Society, which costs half price if you are a member of RAVS.