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.