Meat Free Everyday - Food for Thought

Do Vegetarians drink Alcohol?

Yes and no. This one does. If the motive is a spiritual one, as held by the Rastafaris, Muslims or Yogis, then no. If the motive is more about the slaughter of animals or a preference for life giving foods, then probably yes. Alcohol has been around for eons. Long before sliced bread, Toblerone and Coca Cola. Alcohol is natural and has been used in ceremonies and by ancient peoples as far back as 10 000BC. Early Arabs drank alcohol freely and this is what prompted the prophet Mohamed to set guidelines in the Qur'an.

The benefits of moderate consumption of alcohol are well documented. Most medical professionals are reluctant to encourage people to drink alcohol for fear it gives license to people to abuse it. Excessive alcohol intake is highly damaging to the body and the recommended daily amounts are lower than many people realise.

The spiritual argument against alcohol is more along the lines that it reduces the ability to think clearly. Yogis believe that meditaion is not possible after a drink or two. Meditation is one of the daily practices advocated for health and wellbeing. The muslim view is that one must refrain from taking in any substances that can intoxicate the mind. Rastafaris eschew meat and alcohol but consider cannabis acceptable. In fact they believe that cannabis is a holy herb and assists in spiritual growth. As do the Sadhus.

I'm just a plain old garden variety vegetarian. While I do a couple of yoga classes a week, I haven't figured out quite where I fit in this world spiritually. For now I will enjoy a glass or two of red wine with my evening meal. If there is no wine, that's also fine.

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