than to enjoy a sumptuous
dinner of many courses, the money for which comes out of the
pockets of others. The mind of a contented person is always
peaceful and his heart at rest.--Baha'i Scriptures, p. 453.

Animal food is not forbidden, but 'Abdu'l-Baha says:--"Fruits and grains
[will be the foods of the future]. The time will come when meat will no
longer be eaten. Medical science is only in its infancy, yet it has shown
that our natural diet is that which grows out of the ground."--Ten Days in
the Light of Akka, by Julie M. Grundy.

Alcohol and Narcotics

The use of narcotics and intoxicants of any kind, except as remedies in
case of illness, is strictly forbidden by Baha'u'llah.

Enjoyments

The Baha'i teaching is based on moderation, not as asceticism. Enjoyment
of the good and beautiful things of life, both material and spiritual, is
not only encouraged but enjoined. Baha'u'llah says: "Deprive not
yourselves of that which has been created for you." Again He says: "It is
incumbent upon you that exultation and glad tidings be manifest in your
faces."

'Abdu'l-Baha says:--

All that has been created is for man, who is at the apex of
creation, and he must be thankful for the divine bestowals. All
material things are for us, so that through our gratitude we may
learn to understand life as a divine benefit. If we are disgusted
with life we are ingrates, for our material and spiritual
existence are the outward evidences of the divine mercy. Therefore
we must be happy and spend our time in praises, appreciating all
things.

Asked whether the Baha'i prohibition of gambling applies to game of every
description, 'Abdu'l-Baha replied:--

No, some games are innocent, and if pursued for pastime there is
no harm. But there is danger that pastime may degenerate into
waste of time. Waste of time is not acceptable in the Cause of
God. But recreation which may improve the bodily powers, as
exercise, is desirable.--A Heavenly Vista, p. 9.

Cleanliness

Baha'u'llah says, in the Book of Aqdas:--

Be the essence of cleanliness among mankind ... under all
circumstances conform yourselves to refined manners ... let no
trace of uncleanliness appear on your clothes.... Immerse
yourselves in pure water; a water which hath been used is not
allowable.... Verily We have desired to see in you the
manifestatio