Pope Shenouda III
Vanquishing the body is not an aim in itself but rather a vehicle for the soul.
Vanquishing the body is necessary lest it should digress and lead to the destruction of the soul. On this matter, the apostle says in earnest, “But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.” (1 Cor 9:27). When the body is vanquished, the soul takes control and the body not resisting, but collaborating with it and submitting to its leadership.
Therefore, control your body and keep it wisely from all futile enjoyment, luxury, and lust.
It is not enough that you fast, for you also need to overcome the lust for food.
