Hi Thomas and group,

>
>Having read these texts, it is still hard to understand how the
>individual can actually control the heat or fire element within his
>body, up to the ability of burning the entire body up by himself
>(such as in Udana 8. 9: PTS, pp. 92-3)

One thing that might be relevant is that the idea of controlling heat to burn up oneself or enemies is a stock feature of puranic stories about accomplished rishis. It's a widespread ancient Indian concept, so it's not surprising if it's reflected or mentioned within early Buddhist literature, even if there are no detailed instructions in the handbooks on how to do it (as far as I know).

best regards,

/Rett