Before his enlightenment, the historical Buddha
weakened himself with fasting and other ascetic
practices. Then a young woman offered him a bowl of
milk, which he drank. Strengthened, he sat beneath
a bodhi tree and began to meditate, and in this way
he realized enlightenment.
From a Buddhist perspective, eating is more than
just taking in nourishment. It is an interaction
with the entire phenomenal universe. It is a gift
given us through the work of all beings. We vow to
be worthy of the gift and work to benefit others.
Food is received and eaten with gratitude and
reverence.
A Zen blessing at mealtime:
"In this plate of food, I see the entire universe
supporting my existence."
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