Not much can be said about Hinduism and Buddhism and the role they play in heavy metal music, because they both seem to be completely omitted from the genre altogether. This can once again be explained by an incompatibility between characteristic heavy metal themes and the underlying principles of the two religions. Some of the main ideas upon which Hinduism is based include “The oneness of existence through love”, non-violence, and celibacy (Hindubooks). Similarly, Buddhism focuses on avoiding sensual misconduct and intoxicating substances, and it even goes as far as to forbid singing, music, and entertainment (Buddhanet). These principles clearly oppose the traditional metal themes of violence and sexual indulge, and fully explain the absence of these two religions in the metal genre.
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