The spiritually minded who eat food that is first offered in sacrifice are released from all kinds of sin. Others, who cook food for their own enjoyment, verily eat only sin. – Bhagwad Gita: 3—13

The reference and meaning is that according to Sri Krishna even vegetation contains life. It we eat it for our pleasure then we are bound in the karmic reactions of destroying life. However, if we eat the food as remnants of yajna offered to God then our consciousness changes. Our body belongs to God, and we can partake of food with his grace.

The Bhagwad Gita discusses food in various contexts, emphasizing its role in spiritual practice, health and the modes of nature. It suggests that food should be offered as a sacrifice (yajna) and consumed as prasad, which purifies the individual and releases them from sin.

The Gita categorizes food into three types—sattvic, rajasic and tamasic. Sattvic food increases life span, purifies existence, and provides strength, health and happiness. It is wholesome, fresh, and grown organically. Rajasic food is characterized by bitter, sour, salty, hot and pungent. Overeating can cause distress. Tamasic food is stale, and unclean.

The Gita further recommends moderate eating, recreation and work for a harmonious life and to be able to overcome sorrow. It suggests that even eating leaves, fruits and water can be sufficient for remaining healthy.

To avoid causing terror in living beings, let the disciple refrain from eating meat… the food of the wise is that which is consumed by the sadhus; it does not consist of meat. – The Buddha

It is my view that the vegetarian manner of living by its purely physical effect on the human temperament, would most beneficially influence the lot of mankind. – Albert Einstein

Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food. – Socrates

Food is important, we must practice moderation and respect the food that we eat. We must have mindful eating habits.

Aim Hrim Klim