You may have heard cannabis referred to as the “devil’s lettuce,” either in a fun, playful tone, or as a condemnation of the plant. The exact origins of the term are unclear, but we know it became popular in the 1930s as cannabis prohibition was heating up. But the use of “devil” sparked our curiosity about the plant’s role in Christianity. What does the Bible say about cannabis and other drugs?
We may not be experts on any faith-based texts, but we can take a look at the literature available to get a better understanding. With so many sectors of Christianity (and other religions), it’s impossible for us to provide a one-size-fits-all analysis. Instead, we’ll compare and contrast what we know about drugs in the Bible.
To better understand Christianity’s take on cannabis, we can go straight to the source: the Bible.
The Bible never explicitly mentions cannabis. However, some people believe the book does hint at cannabis in other terms.
For example, the Christian Research Institute points to Gen. 1:12, where the Bible says that all the seeds and herbs brought forth were created and blessed by God. Because cannabis is a plant, many people cite this excerpt as proof that the Bible permits its use. However, this claim remains widely debated.
Another potential reference comes from Exodus 30:23-34, according to a blog published by For the Church. In Exodus 30:23-24, God tells Moses to make incense for worship and lists off several ingredients. According to the blog, God says to, “Take the finest spices: of liquid myrrh 500 shekels, and of sweet-smelling cinnamon half as much, that is, 250, and 250 of aromatic cane, and 500 of cassia, according to the shekel of the sanctuary, and a hin of olive oil.”
The author explains that the interpretation of cannabis comes from the English Standard Version of the Bible, which mentions “aromatic cane”—a term translated from the Hebrew “qanēh-bōśem.” He claims that Polish anthropologist Sula Bene decided that “qanēh-bōśem” sounds like the word cannabis, and therefore deemed the excerpt to be in reference to the cannabis plant.
If Bene’s interpretation of the Bible is accurate, there are several references to cannabis in the Bible. But her interpretation appears to be widely debated among Christians. The author countered her take with, “Bennett’s claims are complete and utter nonsense and demonstrate a fundamental lack of understanding of anything closely related to the historical background of the New Testament.”
Another popular and widely debated potential nod to cannabis in the Bible comes from Psalm 104:14, which says, “He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, And herb for the service of man; That he may bring forth food out of the earth.” Many cannabis advocates have suggested that “herb for the service of man” is a clear nod to cannabis use.
As we mentioned before, the Bible never explicitly mentions cannabis. All of the above examples showcase ways some people have chosen to interpret various verses.
It’s not just cannabis—the Bible never explicitly mentions any drugs. While it doesn’t ever directly address drug use, many Christians interpret other teachings in the Bible to condemn it.
For example, Romans 13:1 says, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Some interpretations of this verse suggest that the Bible says Christians must obey the laws of their government and thus, must avoid using drugs.
Corinthians 6:20 says, “You were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” Some interpret this as a condemnation of drug use, noting its harmful effects on the body.
The Bible also addresses themes of escapism and sobriety. 1 Peter 5:8 says, “Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” Isaiah 5:11 says, “Woe to those who rise early in the morning to run after their drinks, who stay up late at night till they are inflamed with wine.” Some people interpret these (and other similar verses) as condemning drug use.
Some people firmly believe that Christians cannot incorporate cannabis into their lives. But others are more lenient and incorporate cannabis into their lives so long as it does not interfere with their relationship with God. Some Christians may allow more room for medical cannabis use when recommended by a doctor, too. It all comes down to the individual and their interpretation of the Bible.
A group called Christian Cannabis says on their website that “we believe in the broad range of benefits that cannabis can offer regarding the physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being of those who use it.” The group also acknowledges that cannabis and Christianity is a complicated subject and states that “if you’re looking for a biblical permission slip, OR, a specific, scriptural condemnation, neither clearly exists, thus, we won’t be providing them for you.
READ: Dry Herb Vaporizing: A Healthier Alternative to Smoking Cannabis
While the Bible may be silent on cannabis and other drugs, many Christians believe that the use of cannabis directly contradicts the book’s teachings. On the other hand, some have interpreted the Bible to celebrate cannabis use through mentions of herbs and other plants. The truth probably lies somewhere in the middle.
Those struggling to know if they can use cannabis with their religion should look to the literature and their leaders for additional context. But when it comes down to it, the decision is solely based on the individual’s comfort and intent.
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