The Gods gave a microbe a drop of water, and in it he lived. They gave an ant a half acre of land, and he prospered. They gave a tiger the forest and he formed an empire and became an emperor. They gave man the Universe and all the knowledge therein. He entered of his own free will the dungeon of Dogma, shut his mind to truth and slew and starved his brothers.
Fasting in the monastic community is considered an ascetic practice, a “dhutanga” practice. Dhutanga means “to shake up” or “invigoration”. The Buddha, as is well known, emphasized moderation, the Middle Way that avoids extremes, in all things. Fasting is an additional method that one can take up, with supervision, for a time.
Scholars who incessantly contemplate acquiring strength and knowledge should also consider it their moral duty to impart knowledge to the ignorant, so that they can develop their mental faculties. This would automatically lead to the latter’s self-development and spiritual progress.
A generous heart, kind speech, and a life of service and compassion are the things which renew humanity.
