Cannabis: Lost Sacrament of the Ancient World

Archeological evidence suggests that cannabis has been used in the region for over 1,200 years, with evidence of its use in ancient temple sites, sacred texts, and funerary rituals.

Format: Hardback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 20 April 2023
Publisher: Trine Day

In 2020, archeologists discovered that cannabis resins had been burnt on an altar in a small enclosed chamber at a 2,800-year-old temple site in Arad, Jerusalem. This discovery sheds light on the long-standing use of cannabis in the region, spanning over a 1,200-year period.

Further evidence of cannabis use for medical purposes was uncovered at a 4th-century CE site in Bet Shemesh, Israel. Researchers found cannabis that was used both topically and burnt, indicating its widespread use throughout the region.

During the 1900s, Russian archeologist Victor Sarianidi uncovered three large temple sites in the Bactria Margiana Archeological Complex. He claimed to have found evidence of cannabis, ephedra, and poppy in the preparation of the sacred drinks of the Avesta and Vedas, known as haoma and soma. Sacred Zoroastrian texts specifically mention the use of cannabis infused wines for revelation.

Numerous Indo-European sites, ranging from Europe to Central China, have revealed that cannabis was burnt and consumed in beverages during funerary rituals dating back as far as 5,500 years ago. These practices continued for thousands of years.

In India, cannabis remains an important aspect of devotion to the oldest continually worshipped god in the world, Shiva. The use of cannabis in religious ceremonies and rituals continues to this day, adding to the rich history and cultural significance of this plant.

The role of cannabis in the lives of our distant ancestors remains a subject of fascination and debate. Some researchers argue that cannabis was the Lost Sacrament of the Ancient World, a sacred substance that was revered and used in religious ceremonies for thousands of years. Others suggest that its use was more widespread and mundane, serving various purposes such as medicine, food, and textiles.

Despite its long history of use, cannabis remains a controversial substance. Its legal status varies widely across different parts of the world, with some countries allowing its medicinal and recreational use, while others impose strict laws and penalties.

As more research is conducted on cannabis and its potential benefits and risks, it is becoming clear that this plant has a complex and multifaceted history that continues to shape our understanding of human culture and history.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781634243971