Meaning: The quote you've provided is from Walter Map, a medieval writer, and it sheds light on the curious dietary practices of the Cistercian monks during the Middle Ages. In this quote, Map highlights the apparent contradiction of the Cistercians not consuming meat themselves but engaging in the large-scale production and sale of bacon, while also alluding to the mystery surrounding the fate of the leftover parts of the pigs.

The Cistercian Order, a religious order of monks and nuns founded in 1098, adhered to a strict rule of asceticism and self-sufficiency. As part of their commitment to a simple and austere way of life, the Cistercians followed dietary restrictions that included abstaining from meat. This practice was rooted in the belief that consuming meat was indulgent and contrary to the ideals of humility and self-denial embraced by the order.

Despite their prohibition on eating meat, the Cistercians were known for breeding and raising large numbers of pigs. Pigs were a valuable agricultural commodity in medieval Europe, providing not only meat but also other products such as lard, leather, and bristles. The quote suggests that the Cistercians engaged in the commercial production of bacon, capitalizing on the demand for this preserved meat product. The sale of bacon allowed the Cistercians to generate income to support the operations of their monasteries and further their charitable works.

However, the quote also hints at a curious aspect of the Cistercians' pig farming activities. Map mentions that the monks did not fully utilize the pigs they raised, as evidenced by the heads, legs, and feet that were left unused. The fate of these leftover parts remains a mystery, with Map quipping, "What becomes of them God knows." This enigmatic statement alludes to the possibility of the Cistercians disposing of or repurposing these leftover pig parts in ways that were not readily apparent to outsiders.

The quote by Walter Map offers a glimpse into the complexities of medieval dietary practices and the pragmatic considerations that often intersected with religious principles. It underscores the resourcefulness of the Cistercian monks in leveraging their agricultural activities to sustain their communities while navigating the nuances of their dietary restrictions.

In conclusion, Walter Map's quote provides an intriguing perspective on the dietary practices of the Cistercian monks, offering a window into the intersection of religious asceticism and practical economic pursuits in medieval Europe. It invites contemplation on the ways in which religious communities navigated the complexities of sustenance, commerce, and adherence to their spiritual principles within the context of the medieval world.