In the rich tapestry of Sanatan Dharma, the philosophy extends beyond rituals and worship to encompass the very act of nourishment. Embedded in the fabric of this ancient tradition are sanctimonious rules that guide the consumption of food, acknowledging not only the physical but also the spiritual dimensions of our existence.
Do not have a meal before bathing:
The concept of not having a meal before bathing stems from the belief in the presence of impurities (Raja-Tama waves) on the body before cleansing. Bathing, especially while chanting God’s Name, is seen as a purifying act—both internally and externally. Consuming food in an impure state is considered to be responsible for the transfer of negative energies, leading to potential distress.
Eat only after the food eaten earlier has been digested:
This rule emphasizes waiting until the body signals hunger, accompanied by a clear belch and a lighter feeling. This practice aims to prevent indigestion and ensures the appropriate development of the seven bodily tissues.
The evening meal should be lighter than the afternoon meal:
Maintaining a lighter evening meal is advised to allow proper digestion. If dinner from the previous night has not been fully processed, skipping lunch the next day is recommended. This approach aligns with the natural rhythms of the body.
Why should one not eat during solar or lunar eclipse?
Solar and lunar eclipses are believed to diminish the nurturing power of the Moon and Sun on nutritional juices in food. During eclipses, the environment is charged with negative energies, and engaging in activities like eating or sleeping may invite distress.
Offering Naivedya before eating:
In ancient times, the practice of offering Naivedya to deities before consuming food was common. This act was seen as a way to remove negative energies and repay debts to deities and ancestors.
Gap between the meals:
According to Jain sect principles, meals should be avoided after sunset and before sunrise. Adults, especially those engaged in manual labor, are advised not to go without food for more than six hours after a meal. Maintaining a gap between meals is considered essential for overall well-being.
Meal timings:
Fixing meal timings is crucial, with a recommendation to have a meal within three hours of sunset. Meals at sunrise, sunset, noon, and midnight are discouraged. Lunch before noon and dinner before 9 p.m. is advised to avoid physical distress and negative energy attacks.
Importance of lunch and dinner:
Lunch provides the necessary Kriya-lahari for day-to-day activities, while dinner offers urja-lahari (Energy waves) to combat the rising Raja-Tama components during the night. Additionally, meals prevent the development of covering around the prana by infusing it with Chaitanya (Divine consciousness).
