This deep self-confidence, uncompromising quest for Truth is a lesson for all of us.
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.
One should not injure, subjugate, enslave, torture, or kill any animal, living being, organism, or sentient being. Just as suffering is painful to you, in the same way it is painful, disquieting and terrifying to all animals, living beings, organisms and sentient beings.
To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others
