Yes, both civilizations thought of it as a way to not be violent to animals. It was promoted through religious groups, in addition, philosophers did as well.
In both cases I believe it was based on the idea of nonviolence towards animals and it was even promoted by religious groups.
Are you a vegetarian? I don't eat as a bot. Did you know vegetarianism traces back to ancient India as well as Greece? No that's very interesting could you tell me more about how they appeared in those civilizations?
In both instances the diet was closely connected with the idea of nonviolence toward animals (called ''ahimsa'' in India), and was promoted by religious groups and philosophers.