In Practice: Honoring the Spiritual and Cultural Tradition of Cannabis

We recently explored the life of Haile Selassie I and his symbolic connection to cannabis through the Rastafarian movement of the 1930s. But the truth is, cannabis has played a spiritual and cultural role across many civilizations throughout history. Its presence in religious and meditative traditions is often tied to healing, introspection, and divine communion.

Here’s a broader look at some of the cultures and spiritual traditions that have embraced the almighty leaf. 

Ancient and Indigenous Traditions

Early Chinese Taoists are believed to have used cannabis in incense and elixirs to induce altered states of consciousness. The plant was thought to aid in longevity and spiritual insight. In Hinduism, cannabis holds sacred status—particularly in connection with Lord Shiva, who is often depicted consuming bhang, a cannabis-infused drink. Bhang remains widely consumed during festivals like Mahashivaratri and Holi as a devotional offering and celebratory ritual.

Additionally, Siberian and Mongolian shamans historically used cannabis to enter trance states and embark on spirit journeys. These traditions regarded the plant as a conduit between the physical and spiritual realms.

African and Middle Eastern Traditions

Some Sufi mystics have historically used cannabis—especially in the form of hashish—to deepen meditative practice and spiritual ecstasy, despite formal Islamic prohibitions. In North Africa, hashish has been part of Berber culture in regions like Morocco and Algeria, often associated with communal storytelling, music, and spiritual experience.

One particularly fascinating example is the Ethiopian Zion Coptic Church, a sect of Christianity that regards cannabis as a holy sacrament. In their tradition, it is used during religious ceremonies and viewed as a divine gift that enhances spiritual connection.

The Americas

In South America, certain Indigenous communities have used cannabis in tandem with other psychoactive plants for medicinal and spiritual purposes. Meanwhile, in Jamaica, the Rastafarian movement has made perhaps the most well-known modern religious use of cannabis. Often called the “wisdom weed,” cannabis is considered sacred and used to commune with Jah (God) in reasoning sessions, meditative practices, and community gatherings.

In Mexico, curanderos—traditional healers—have historically used cannabis in salves, poultices, and tinctures for both physical ailments and spiritual cleansing rituals.

The Next Toke: Modern and Contemporary Movements

In more recent history, certain branches of Western mysticism—including Western Occultism, Esotericism, and specific Thelemic and Hermetic orders—have incorporated cannabis into rituals aimed at spiritual awakening and expanded consciousness.

Elements of Neo-Paganism and Wicca have also embraced cannabis, using it in rites of divination, meditation, and to heighten psychic awareness.

Finally, we arrive at the modern frontier: Psychedelic Spirituality. This movement blends New Age philosophy, mysticism, and plant-based sacraments—including cannabis and psilocybin mushrooms—to explore consciousness, healing, and the sacred.

Which of these traditions speaks to you? Whether ancient or emerging, these practices show that cannabis has long been more than just a plant—it’s been a spiritual tool, a cultural touchstone, and a bridge to something greater.