Question: As a Buddhist vegetarian, when dining with non-vegetarian friends, is it alright to pay for their non-vegetarian food?
Answer: It is best not to, and pay for your vegetarian portion only. For example, because you are treating a friend, he might eat TWO fishes instead of his usual one. So, treating ends up supporting killing of more fish than usual, cancelling your intention of reducing support. Even if he eats only one fish, you are still supporting the eating of one fish.
The key point of going veg(etari)an is to not support killing or demanding of killing with anyone’s purchases, including those being treated. Since the Buddhist practice of veg(etari)anism is motivated by compassion, to pay for others’ uncompassionate choices does not align with it. This might even perpetuate apathy towards animals.
It is best to treat friends at vegan restaurants with good food and non-alcoholic drinks. Sponsoring non-eating of animals will create meritorious virtues. Hopefully, they will like the food and go for more later too. Beyond vegetarianism, to deepen practice of compassion and wisdom for one and all, here is the goal of Buddhist veganism to work towards:
How Should All Aspiring For Buddhahood Eat And Drink?
上求佛道者应当如何饮食？
https://TheDailyEnlightenment.com/veg
