Should Animal Advocates Support the Ritualized Release of Sentient Beings?

Abstract The use of animals in ceremonial contexts is universal. Throughout history, across cultures, in both religious and secular settings, animals are often seen as mere symbols rather than as individuals with the capacity to be harmed in ritual performances. While some ritualized uses of animals are unquestionably cruel (e.g., the Islamic ritual sacrifice of sheep at Eid al-Adha), the morality of other uses (e.g., the ritual release of animals at Buddhist festivals) is less certain. This article examines what stance animal advocates should take toward the ritualized release of animals, arguing that, on the whole, the inclusion of animals in ritual activity perpetuates the misguided and anthropocentric notion that animals are instruments for human use. Since ritualized animal release is a prominent feature of Buddhist tradition, this article pays particular attention to the effects of “merit-making” ceremonies on animals across Asia.