Rastafarians-use of marijuana

by susan
(Ft. Worth,Tx,USA)

Q: How did marijuana become a sacrament to the rastafarians? I know they believe some references are in the Bible. Can people who object to the use of illegal drugs ever be rastafarians? I wonder how they would be viewed by others who feel copius amounts of this are part of their belief. How do they handle the illegality of this. Thank you. I have alot more questions, may I ask them sometime?

A: First let me apologize for being a little late with my response...have been busy running around all day.

...but to answer your question: How did marijuana become a sacrament to the rastafarians?
Here's is a little history about marijuana (cannabis): It was found in the holy anointing oil used in Jerusalem to anoint all priests and later kings and prophets...and it is listed as an incense tree in the original Hebrew and Aramaic texts.

In Africa it has been used to restore appetite and relieve hemorrhoids. In other countries, it has been used to treat tetanus, hydrophobia, delirium tremens, infantile convulsions, neuralgia and other nervous disorders, cholera, menorrhagia, rheumatism, hay fever, asthma, skin diseases, and protracted labor during childbirth.

...so as yo can see marijuana is not as bad as the world would have you think. In fact, It is stated in the bible that everything that God created was "good...and very good"...including marijuana. Therefore there is nothing wrong with marijuana, it is the ab-usage of it which becomes a problem.

Now, if you Combine all of these powerful benefits with Rastafarian beliefs, what do you get? You get a herb which fits the bill perfectly for allowing the Rastafarians to achieve their objectives: herbal healing, enhanced meditation, biblical affiliation, and African relevance.


Can people who object to the use of illegal drugs ever be rastafarians?
Yes people who object to the use of illegal drugs can become rastafarians. In fact, there are Rastafarians out there who do not smoke herb (marijuana). Hard to believe, but it exists.

How would they be viewed by others who believe copious amount this is part of their belief?
They would probably be viewed negatively, but that should not stop one from becoming a rasta if they so desire.

Not everyone will view them as such. The ones who truly understand what rasta is all about will view them with love.

Don't forget, Rasta is about peace and love, not hate and criticism. It is exemplified by the positive actions of the heart...coming from within.

How do they handle illegality of this?
It really depends on the individual. They can chose to ignore it and join the movement...or they can choose not to join the movement if it is going to be such an issue.

...but as of now, it is what it is. Marijuana is illegal...and there is really nothing you can do about it, but hope and fight for a change.

which leads me to the question...are they against marijuana or the illegality of it? In other words if it were legal, would they use it? Just something to think about.


I hope I answer your question so far and please feel free to ask more.