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MORE WILLPOWER THROUGH FASTING
Dt. 06-09-1982
Many people feel that like a car that cannot run without fuel, man cannot carry on without food. This is partly true. The soul is the master of the body and as an able master could do all the work of a servant in his absence, in the same way the soul too has the power to undertake normal activities even during the fasting period.
The strongest among man's desires is to eat. That is why almost all religions insist that a person should resort to periodic fasting to help him curb and overcome the tendency to over-eat. Once an idividual controls this habit, he will find it easier to control other desires. Thus fasting results in the cultivation of a great will-power.
Scriptures say that 'fasting is a feast of the soul', because it helps in cultivating contemplation. It is considered a mighty weapon to fight internal foes. However, before performing it as a religious duty, people are advised to consult spiritual guides. The purpose of undertaking a fast should be only to identify the soul.
But none can assert that food is not essential for the body, but the question is whether daily intake is necessary or whether a man could give it up for days together. The maximum limit of continuous fast was six months, as per Jain scriptures. This seemed to be somewhat too much but practice always leads to perfection. During fasting, one could experience the existence of the soul within the body. Fasting is an activity that brings one within the realms of spirituality.
No doubt to stretch it too far by observing fast for a long period may be harmful, but even excessive eating also harms a man.
Fasting is a Remedy without Medicine.
In a discourse on Bhagawati Sutra, Acharya Vikramsuriji said that while the word 'upavas might connote observance of a fast, it also mean 'to stay close to the soul' - Upa to come near and Vas to remain.
One who angers you, conquers you. One who pleases you, wins you.
