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Indian philosophy divides nature into three
modal influences - goodness, passion, and ignorance. The sattvic
influence of goodness and clarity is one from which our spirituality
is developed. Should those interested in spiritual life then
eat only sattvic foods?
Harish
Johari :
Rajasic or passion foods create sensuality,
sexuality, greed, avarice, fantasies, irreligiosity, and egotism.
They must be prepared and combined with other foods before
they are eatable.
Tamasic foods, or those of ignorance, are foods
that consume considerable energy while being digested. They
make one dull and drowsy. They increase pessimism, lack of
common sense, laziness, and doubt.
Sattvic foods give necessary energy to the body
without taxing it, and they are helpful in achieving balanced
bodily chemistry, which serves as a foundation for higher
states of consciousness. The psyche is brought to a centered
state through sattvic foods because they bring readily digestible
and nourishing food material into the system.
These three modes are distinct, yet foods can
be converted from one to another with time and food combination.
In one sense, those concerned with spiritual
development should eat only sattvic foods, but not everyone
is a rishi. Many may be interested in spiritual life, yet
still have worldly commitments. These three influences - sattva,
rajas, and tamas - pervade human society. Generally speaking
we people of the world, common people, should eat in a balanced
way, while trying as far as possible to avoid tamasic substances
such as meats and liquors.
If one is a rishi, then he can eat only sattvic
foods. But Krishna was not a rishi and in the temples we offer
all types of vegetarian foods to him. If we follow the lead
of Krishna, who set an example for all types of work, we will
have a proper diet that includes our spirituality.
Also Read : 3
Gunas
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