The entheogenic origins of Mormonism: A working hypothesis
Journal of Psychedelic Studies June 1, 2019 Robert Beckstead, Bryce Blankenagel, Cody Noconi et al. 1 citation
Historical documents suggest that Joseph Smith used entheogen-infused sacraments to fulfill his promise that every Mormon convert would experience visions of God and spiritual ecstasies. Early Mormon scriptures and Smith's teachings contain descriptions consistent with entheogenic material. Compiled accounts of Smith's earliest visions and early convert visions reveal internal symptomology and outward bodily manifestations consistent with an anticholinergic entheogen. Due to embarrassing symptomology, Smith sought psychoactives with fewer outward manifestations. The visionary period fueled by entheogens played a significant role in Mormonism's rise. Smith's death ended visionary Mormonism, as his successor failed to use entheogens in worship.