On the Measure of Food
Mar. 18—July 18—Nov. 17
We think it sufficient for the daily dinner, whether at the sixth or the
ninth hour, that every table have two cooked dishes, on account of
individual infirmities, so that he who for some reason cannot eat of the
one may make his meal of the other. Therefore let two cooked dishes
suffice for all the brethren; and if any fruit or fresh vegetables are
available, let a third dish be added.
Let a good pound weight of bread suffice for the day, whether there be
only one meal or both dinner and supper. If they are to have supper, the
cellarer shall reserve a third of that pound, to be given them at
supper.
But if it happens that the work was heavier, it shall lie within the
Abbot’s discretion and power, should it be expedient, to add something
to the fare. Above all things, however, over-indulgence must be avoided
and a monk must never be overtaken by indigestion; for there is nothing
so opposed to the Christian character as over-indulgence, according to
Our Lord’s words, “See to it that your hearts be not burdened with
over-indulgence.”
Young boys shall not receive the same amount of food as their elders,
but less; and frugality shall be observed in all circumstances.
Except the sick who are very weak, let all abstain entirely from eating
the flesh of four-footed animals.