Biblical Entheogens: a Speculative Hypothesis
Time and Mind – January 01, 2008
Source: OpenAlex
Summary
Ancient Israelite religion may have involved the use of entheogens, similar to Ayahuasca. Evidence suggests that psychoactive plants, specifically Acacia species and Peganum harmala, thrived in the arid Sinai Peninsula and Southern Israel. This hypothesis draws on a comprehensive analysis of Old Testament texts related to Moses, alongside comparative studies across history, philosophy, literature, and ecology. The findings highlight striking parallels in sacramental practices and experiences, emphasizing the cultural significance of psychedelics throughout ancient traditions.
Abstract
A speculative hypothesis is presented according to which the ancient Israelite religion was associated with the use of entheogens (mind-altering plants used in sacramental contexts). The hypothesis is based on a new look at texts of the Old Testament pertaining to the life of Moses. The ideas entertained here were primarily based on the fact that in the arid areas of the Sinai peninsula and Southern Israel there grow two plants containing the same psychoactive molecules found in the plants from which the powerful Amazonian hallucinogenic brew Ayahuasca is prepared. The two plants are species of Acacia tree and the bush Peganum harmala.The hypothesis is corroborated by comparative experiential-phenomenological observations, linguistic considerations, exegesis of old Jewish texts and other ancient Mideastern traditions, anthropological lore, and ethnobotanical data.