Reclaiming Terminology in a Compassionate Context

Reflecting on "Holocaust"

Language is powerful. It shapes our perceptions, colors our emotions, and subtly directs our thoughts toward particular understandings. In the Buddhist context, where right speech (sammā-vācā) and mindfulness (sati) hold high importance, the language we use reflects not only our thoughts but also our intentions. Today, I want to reflect on the term holocaust, a word that we, in the Meditations for Holocaust group, A spin-off of The Gentle Law movement,have sought to reappropriate in a compassionate, contemplative way.

The Historical and Spiritual Roots of "Holocaust"

The term "holocaust" originates from the ancient Greek holokauston, a concept of sacrificial offerings completely burned by fire. This offering, entirely consumed in flames, symbolized total devotion, often directed to the divine. This ancient sense of “holocaust” as a total obliteration carries a resonance of profound transformation—of giving up one life to pave the way for a new one.

Over time, "holocaust" evolved, especially after the horrific events of the 20th century, to refer exclusively to the tragic genocide of millions of Jews and others under Nazi persecution. This modern association is significant and solemn, evoking deep emotional resonance for anyone who hears it. Out of respect, our group does not intend to minimize this tragedy. Yet, reclaiming the term holocaust in its original sense—one of vast destruction and profound suffering—can open a space for compassionate reflection on other kinds of large-scale suffering, which, from a Buddhist perspective, carry karmic weight and ethical significance.

Why Reclaim Language?

In Buddhism, language is a tool for liberation. The Buddha’s teachings encourage us to examine our habitual perceptions and labels, noticing where they bind us or deepen ignorance. Words can reflect our deepest intentions and understandings, or they can be distorted by time and context. Reappropriating terminology helps us connect with a term’s root meaning, allowing us to reinvest it with our intentions, just as we do with meditation or any compassionate action.

In our case, by quietly meditating outside abattoirs, we draw attention to the unseen suffering of animals who live and die in intensive farming. By using the term holocaust, we aim to stress the magnitude and severity of this suffering, while opening a space for viewers to reflect on the ethical implications. The term’s original meaning evokes the scale of destruction animals face, reminding us that suffering takes many forms.

The Buddhist Perspective on Suffering

Buddhist teachings remind us of the universality of suffering (dukkha) and its causes. In our practice, we aim to reduce suffering in all forms—animal, human, and environmental. The Buddha’s teachings urge us to approach the lives of all beings with compassion, whether it be through our words, actions, or, in our case, meditation practice. The Buddhist ethical precept of ahimsa, or non-violence, is at the core of our intention. Our silent meditation outside abattoirs is a form of ahimsa in action, free of protest or blame and dedicated to bearing witness with a mindful and compassionate heart.

The suffering experienced by animals in the modern food industry—a suffering often hidden from our day-to-day lives—is profound. By applying the term "holocaust" in this context, we hope to draw mindful attention to the vast number of lives impacted. We meditate not to accuse or condemn but to honor life itself, taking responsibility for raising awareness while remaining deeply committed to non-violence.

Language as Right Speech

Buddhist teachings emphasize right speech as one of the core elements of the Noble Eightfold Path. The Buddha instructed his followers to use words that are true, useful, and spoken with kindness and compassion. By reclaiming the term holocaust, we hope to do just this: to speak the truth about the suffering animals face, to shine a light on the hidden impact of our food choices, and to do so with sensitivity and respect for the lives lost in the Holocaust, which has become the modern focal point of the term.

The Buddha's words are tools to open the mind and heart. In taking back this terminology, we seek to use it not to reopen wounds but to invite new understanding and reflection. Language can be healing if used with integrity and clear intent, bringing awareness to areas of hidden suffering without creating harm.

Practicing Compassionate Reappropriation

Reclaiming holocaust as a word that reflects broad-scale suffering allows us to practice metta, or loving-kindness, toward beings of all kinds. In Buddhist practice, compassion (karuna) extends to all beings—human and non-human alike. By meditating in silence outside abattoirs, we strive to cultivate this compassionate understanding and bear witness to suffering in its many forms.

With each meditation, we create a space for peaceful, non-violent communication with ourselves, our world, and the beings whose lives are often overlooked. We seek to hold compassion not only for those animals but also for those who work in these industries and for everyone involved in our complex food system.

Final Thoughts: "It Still Happens. Every Day."

We recognize that language carries weight, and it is with the utmost respect that we engage in this reappropriation. Our hope is that by drawing on the term’s historical meaning, we encourage reflection on suffering in all forms, drawing attention to the need for greater compassion, awareness, and mindful living.

Our silent meditations are a way to remember that such suffering “still happens, every day,” and that awareness can be the first step toward a world where fewer beings endure needless harm. In the Buddha’s words, “May all beings be happy and free from suffering.” Let this be our guiding principle in all that we say, think, and do.