Neither these men of the world nor Buddhist ascetics can…
““Neither these men of the world nor Buddhist ascetics can be optimists. The latter rigorously deny themselves sensual gratifications, and keep themselves aloof from all objects of pleasure. For them to be pleased is equivalent to sin, and to laugh, to be cursed. They would rather touch an adder's head than a piece of money.[FN#211] They would rather throw themselves into a fiery furnace than to come in contact with the other sex. Body for them is a bag full of blood and pus;[FN#212] life, an idle, or rather evil, dream. Vegetarianism and celibacy are their holy privileges. Life is unworthy of having; to put an end to it is their deliverance.[FN#213] Such a view of life is hardly worth our refutation. [FN#211]””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage argues that strict asceticism denies pleasure, viewing life as suffering, and promotes celibacy and vegetarianism as spiritual liberation.
In simple terms: Strict asceticism rejects pleasure, seeing life as suffering.
Key Takeaway
Question the extremes of denial.
Themes
religion
asceticism
philosophy
ethics
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
skeptical
When to use this quote
- Monastic life
- ethical debates
- personal discipline
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
Detachment
suffering
spiritual liberation
Questions to Reflect On
- Is total renunciation realistic?
- How can one find meaning without total denial?
A Different Perspective
Such extreme denial may ignore the value of balanced enjoyment.