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: Paperback / softback
Length: 480 pages
Publication date: 31 May 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 4,000-year-old 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. Archaeological evidence from multiple Indo-European sites, ranging from Europe to Central China, indicates that cannabis was burnt and consumed in beverages during funerary rituals as far back 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.

While the exact role of cannabis in the lives of our distant ancestors remains a subject of debate, it is clear that it played a significant role in various cultures throughout history. Its medicinal properties, spiritual significance, and cultural importance have made it a subject of interest and study for centuries. As more research is conducted, we may gain a deeper understanding of the role of cannabis in human history and its potential impact on our modern world.

Weight: 776g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781634243988