What Does the Bible Say About Marijuana and Cannabis — In Biblical Context
The Bible doesn't mention marijuana specifically but provides principles about sobriety, self-control, and not being 'brought under the power' of any substance.
The Bible doesn't mention marijuana specifically but provides principles about sobriety, self-control, and not being 'brought under the power' of any substance.
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." — 1 Peter 5:8 (KJV)
The Biblical Context
While cannabis isn't named in Scripture, relevant biblical principles include: 1 Peter 5:8 urges believers to 'be sober, be vigilant.' Ephesians 5:18 warns, 'Be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit' — a principle extending beyond alcohol to any mind-altering substance used for intoxication. 1 Corinthians 6:12 teaches, 'I will not be brought under the power of any.' The Greek word 'pharmakeia' (sorcery/witchcraft in Galatians 5:20) is related to drug use in ancient religious rituals. Romans 13:1 also instructs submission to governing laws. While some argue for medicinal use under proper supervision, recreational use of marijuana for intoxication conflicts with the Bible's call to clear-headedness, self-control (a fruit of the Spirit — Galatians 5:23), and the stewardship of our bodies as God's temple.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, 1 Peter 5:8, sits inside 1 Peter 5. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour."
Supporting Passages
"What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?"
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance."
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