Thou hast written regarding the four canine teeth in man,
saying that these teeth, two in the upper jaw and two in the lower, are for the
purpose of eating meat. Know thou that these four teeth are not created for
meat-eating, although one can eat meat with them. All the teeth of man are made
for eating fruit, cereals and vegetables. These four teeth, however, are
designed for breaking hard shells, such as those of almonds. But eating meat is
not forbidden or unlawful, nay, the point is this, that it is possible for man
to live without eating meat and still be strong. Meat is nourishing and
containeth the elements of herbs, seeds and fruits; therefore sometimes it is
essential for the sick and for the rehabilitation of health. There is no
objection in the Law of God to the eating of meat if it is required. So if thy
constitution is rather weak and thou findest meat useful, thou mayest eat it.
- 'Abdu'l-Bahá (From a Tablet; The
Compilation of Compilations, vol. I, Some Aspects of Heath, Healing,
Nutrition and Related Matters)
