Cannabis and Religion

The Origins of the Relationship Between Cannabis and Religion

The link between cannabis and religion likely began with its use as ceremonial incense, along with other aromatic herbs. By throwing these plants onto hot embers or stones, clouds of smoke loaded with THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, were released. Those present inhaled the smoke, experiencing a heightened perception of colours, sounds, and time itself, making them feel in direct contact with the divine.

The Scythians and Cannabis

One of the oldest accounts of the religious use of cannabis comes from the Greek historian Herodotus, who in 440 BC described the funeral rituals of the Scythians, a nomadic people of Central Asia. According to Herodotus, the Scythians would lock themselves in tents where they would throw cannabis seeds onto hot stones. Although these were seeds, they probably still contained enough pollen and plant material to produce psychoactive smoke. Upon inhaling the smoke, participants would “scream with joy,” suggesting a state of ecstasy or spiritual connection.

Shamanism and Cannabis in Ancient China

The earliest evidence of sacramental use of cannabis was found in a shaman’s grave in western China, dated to 2700 BC. Flowers of a psychoactive variety of cannabis were found along with seeds, stems and leaves. These remains, which weighed 789 grams, were placed in a basket and a bowl next to the shaman's head and feet. There is no indication that his people, the ancient Turpan Basin culture, used cannabis as food, oil or fibre, which reinforces its ritual and sacred purpose.

Cannabis as a Sacred Plant in Different Religions

The use of cannabis as a religious sacrament predates written history and is evident in numerous ancient religions, such as Buddhism, Shintoism, Sufism and Christianity, as well as among African tribes such as the Bantu, Pygmies, Zulus and Hottentots. Today, several modern religions continue to practice the ceremonial use of cannabis, most notably the Rastafari movement, while others revere it for its multiple properties, seeing it as a symbol of strength, purity or well-being.

Contemplative Inspiration and Spiritual Understanding

The popularity of cannabis in religion is based on several factors: it grows easily in almost any climate, is active in its natural form, and only requires heat to release its psychoactive properties. But most importantly, cannabis encourages contemplation.

Many contemporary users describe experiences of “oneness with God,” “peace and tranquillity,” “reduced anxiety,” and a “greater appreciation of life, music, and art.” These sensations reflect the transcendental effects sought for millennia in religious and spiritual contexts.

Rastafarianism

For the Rastafari movement, cannabis (known as ganja) is a sacred herb. Smoking is a fundamental part of their rituals, and for years they have advocated for its legalization in Jamaica, based on the right to religious freedom. According to Maxine Stowe, a consultant for the Rastafari Millenium Council, “smoking this plant allows the psychological spirits of the individual to reach the divine.” This experience transcends the physical plane, inducing a state of meditation and deep reflection.

Biblical Inspiration

Cannabis use in Rastafarianism is inspired by biblical verses, especially in Genesis, the Psalms, the Song of Songs and the Apocalypse. In these texts, Rastafarians interpret the “aromatic cane” mentioned as referring to cannabis. By consuming it in a sacred context, a liturgy is created in which the reading of the word is complemented by the spiritual experience induced by the herb.

It is believed that remains of cannabis were found in the tomb of King Solomon, author of the Song of Songs, which legitimizes its religious use in the Rastafarian tradition. The connection to Solomon also links this ritual to the history of Israel and the use of hemp in the Bible.

Cannabis and Spirituality

Throughout history, cannabis has played a pivotal role in the quest for divinity and the expansion of consciousness. From the ceremonies of the Scythians and Chinese shamans to the rituals of the Rastafari, this plant has been a vehicle for spiritual connection, reflection, and understanding of existence.

Today, although the religious context has changed, personal experiences of transcendence and inner peace continue to be a testament to the sacred power of cannabis.

The link between cannabis and religion transcends time and culture. The plant, revered for its ability to induce states ofdeep reflection and spiritual connection, remains a sacrament in many religious traditions. By understanding this sacred relationship, we can better appreciate the cultural and spiritual relevance of cannabis in human history.

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