Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Nave at Rivaulx Abbey

The Rules of St. Benedict were strictly followed here. The monks were not allowed to eat meat.
"I abstain from meat because by over-feeding the body I also feed carnal desires; I strive to take even bread with moderation, lest my heavy stomach hinder me in standing up for prayer." They could not eat anything with 4 legs, just 2, like chickens (or 2-legged sheep!) Although in later years, they relaxed a bit and were allowed to eat meat once a week.

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