Cannabis Sativa, religion and society: Historical, medicinal, legal, and sacramental perspectives
Acta Theologica June 30, 2026 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.38140/cq5s1148 via OpenAlex
Summary
As cannabis decriminalization and legalization evolve globally, this article examines the relationship between Cannabis sativa and religion. It covers the plant's ancient origins, chemical structure, historical medicinal uses from ancient China to modern applications, and its criminalization, questioning the constitutionality of current legal frameworks. The article also explores cannabis's role in selected religions. The authors suggest future research, including a questionnaire to investigate how religious beliefs shape attitudes toward cannabis.
Study at a glance
| Design | review |
|---|---|
| Key finding | The article argues that the nexus between Cannabis sativa and religion warrants further investigation, particularly through a questionnaire on religious beliefs and attitudes toward cannabis. |
Abstract
As South Africa and the global community confront the changing dynamics of cannabis decriminalization and legalization, this article examines the intricate nexus between Cannabis sativa and religion. With evolving societal perspectives and legal paradigms, the study probes into the historical underpinnings of cannabis, its chemical structure, criminalization, medicinal uses, industrial applications, and its connections to various religions. The article illuminates the ancient origins of Cannabis sativa, its cultural diffusion, and introduction to Southern Africa. It discusses the complexities in assessing THC effects due to legal constraints. The piece explores the plant's historical medicinal uses, from ancient China to contemporary health applications. It scrutinizes the criminalization of cannabis, questioning the constitutionality of existing legal frameworks. The article delves into the plant's role in selected religions. Finally, the authors suggest future research directions, particularly investigating the interplay of religious beliefs and attitudes toward cannabis through a comprehensive questionnaire.