However, the opposite of this is true in the case of the ascetic saint. The saint practices asceticism in order to gain power. That is, from a LACK of power. It is putting on a show of power to overcompensate for its weakness. It is a life that isn't strong enough to endure life, so it avoids it, and calls this the highest form of life.
Abstinence can be the show and practice of great strength.
However, the opposite of this is true in the case of the ascetic saint. The saint practices asceticism in order to gain power. That is, from a LACK of power. It is putting on a show of power to overcompensate for its weakness. It is a life that isn't strong enough to endure life, so it avoids it, and calls this the highest form of life.