What Does the Bible Say About Marijuana and Cannabis — Meaning Explained
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)
What "What Does the Bible Say About Marijuana and Cannabis?" Actually Means
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.
Anchor Verses (KJV)
1 Peter 5:8
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour."
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
"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?"
Galatians 5:22-23
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance."
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