WHY IS IT FORBIDDEN TO EAT MEAT, ALCOHOL, ONIONS, GARLIC IN MANY RELIGIONS?

WHY IS IT FORBIDDEN TO EAT MEAT, ALCOHOL, ONIONS, GARLIC IN MANY RELIGIONS?


The three qualities of Maya (satva, rajas and tamas) exist in varying levels within one's mind. 

Satva are the qualities comprising of tranquillity, restraint, purity and peace of mind. 

Rajas are the passion and pleasure seeking attributes of Maya. 

Tamas are the evil qualities that lead one to become angry, resentful, arrogant and destructive. 

In order to concentrate one's mind on the Lord, the qualities of rajas and tamas must be suppressed, allowing the satvik qualities to prevail.

Various foods and drink can influence the state of one's mind and can therefore manipulate the levels of satva, rajas and tamas. 

For example, alcohol lowers inhibitions and invokes rajsik qualities such as lust. 

In the same manner, onions, garlic, asafoetida, etc, raise tamsik qualities such as anger. 


Disciples of the Lord must avoid any food or drink that are considered rajsik or tamsik because these cause a hindrance in their worship of God.


Whilst rajsik or tamsik qualities are prevalent, one's mind will not remain calm. 

Therefore, whilst in these states, one cannot meditate on God. 

When the quality of satva prevails, meditation and faithful worship can be performed. 

Therefore, a disciple of God must ensure that their mind continually suppresses all rajsik and tamsik natures and establishes the state of satva. 

One must ensure that all of one's senses, including taste, are controlled and kept pure - in order for the mind to be kept pure. Purity of mind, deeds and speech, are the manners through which one can please the Lord.