法苑珠林 93.43

93.43

Answer: Greed for wealth and delight in sensuality are despised by the chaste; a passion for fine delicacies is hated by the pure. Suppressing feelings to follow the Way was praised by former sages; restraining desires to esteem virtue was commended alike by past philosophers. How much more so when meat arises from taking life, and wine can disorder the spirit! Not consuming them is principle; how could it be wrong? Even if one encounters duress from superiors, one must strictly sever them to the end. Though it defies the sovereign's command, it accords with the Buddha's mind.