Mr. Konrad,
as Andrei Volkov rightly quote, its actually the heart of Dhamma practice. And like many issues, there are no such as "this is only for Monks", "this Laypeople should not do". More over, a live of rhinoceros is not a required way according to the Vinaya. The mode of life like this, does even reduce the need to stay with certain rules and is most present in the practice of Dhutanga or forest monks.
Its simply a real well meant advice of mode of life and practice. It touches many topics and of course also the matter of "if there is no one equal or better, if there is no good friend: Walk alone", kalyanamitta
Its has been also the mode of the Bodhisatta, in many of his life times.
"Laying aside all violence, respecting all beings,
never harming even one of them" for example, incl. renunciation are the three factors of right resolve/intention, the second path factor. So it comes right after right view.
And if you think of how the Buddha told to identify of what is Dhamma, and what not, you would also find the same aspects (look for the sutta named — Cv.X.5 in this document)
Don't forget, even you live in the midst of everything, you are always alone. So what seeks for engagement?
Maybe also an alternative translation with some introduction Khaggavisana Sutta: A Rhinoceros
Speaking about this topics is straight right speech and touches many of the 10 wholesome topic.
Modesty
Contentment
Seclusion
Non-entanglement
Persistence
Virtue
The hidden intention, like also have been mentioned here, to be back on stage again, as a hero, is a beloved one, but actually the Buddha adviced, if such is the case, it is not righteous to practice the Dhutangas. It has been also indicated, that if the Sangha does no more prefers this mode of live, that this is the end of the Sasana.
Every Stanza of this Sutta is worthy to talk about it and explain it. Some related essays:
- With Robes and Bowl: Glimpses of the Thudong Bhikkhu Life
- Recognizing the Dhamma: A Study Guide
- All of Us: Beset by birth, decay, and death