Your Religious Beliefs and Marijuana

[Tim]

I saw this video from Fox and Friends:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1G1SOwjD00&eurl=http://boortz.com/nealz_nuze/index.html&feature=player_embedded

Just for the record, I do not smoke pot and have no desire to smoke it. I do think that it will be legalized within my lifetime (next 25 years) however.

Something I've not heard discussed much is how various people's religious beliefs relate to the use of marijuana. So here is my question:

If/when marijuana use is legalized does your religious doctrine/personal beliefs allow for the recreational use of it? (And for the sake of this discussion let's try to keep the "abuse" of it or any other substance out of the equation).

[Thank you Troops]

To me it would be somewhat akin to drinking. I don't believe it is a sin to drink unless it is a sin to that person. Even one drink affects people and lowers their resistance to sin. However there are people that can drink a glass of wine at dinner and be fine. I'm sure there are people that could eat THC cookies and be fine. THC has it's uses from pain reducing to appetite enhancing.

[hillplus]

Being LDS, the use of coffee, tea, alcohol, and tobacco are against the tenants of my faith. Therefore, the question of Marijuana in pretty much a no-brainer. :)

[Tim]

Being LDS, the use of coffee, tea, alcohol, and tobacco are against the tenants of my faith. Therefore, the question of Marijuana in pretty much a no-brainer. :)

:doh:

Even "herbal" teas? :))

Actually, I kind of figured that LDS and tea-totalling Baptists, Methodists and Pentecostals, etc would have a problem with marijuana too. I'm wondering how those who are currently okay with alcohol feel about it.

[Tim]

To me it would be somewhat akin to drinking. I don't believe it is a sin to drink unless it is a sin to that person. Even one drink affects people and lowers their resistance to sin. However there are people that can drink a glass of wine at dinner and be fine. I'm sure there are people that could eat THC cookies and be fine. THC has it's uses from pain reducing to appetite enhancing.

Your answer kind of surprises me, Troops. I thought you'd be more in the tea-totalling, alcohol is a sin camp. It's nice learning something new about the folks here in the RF.

[Terriin ky]

No I would not use it. Our bodies are temples for the Holy Spirit to dwell. I do enough now to harm my body without adding to the list. It's like when you take your first drink or smoke your first cigarette. It was most likely pleasurable. So you go back for more and before you know it, your addicted. No thanks, I like being of sound mind. Just because it's legal doesn't mean it's good for you.

[Thank you Troops]

Your answer kind of surprises me, Troops. I thought you'd be more in the tea-totalling, alcohol is a sin camp. It's nice learning something new about the folks here in the RF.

Oh I am a tea-totaller for myself and my family. I preach the sins of alcohol in my family and won't let a drop of it in the house or past my lips. However I don't make it an issue for others. If they ask my opinion I would say stay away because it's not worth the risk but if I know they drink I treat them the same and don't saying anything.

I'm sure I would be the same for marijuana, however when it comes to legalization I believe if alcohol is legal so should marijuana. I believe that alcohol is worse than marijuana when it comes to the damage done to society in the form of health issues and violence.

I think us Christians do sometimes get self righteous about drugs and alcohol at the same time we have 5 or 6 legal prescriptions to make us feel better.

Matthew 15:11 "It's not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth."

[Koushi Shinigami]

Personally, I can find no strictures in my faith to prevent its use. But by the same token, I have never toked and wouldn't want that foul smelling crap in my house anyway.

[captusa]

:doh:

Even "herbal" teas? :))

Actually, I kind of figured that LDS and tea-totalling Baptists, Methodists and Pentecostals, etc would have a problem with marijuana too. I'm wondering how those who are currently okay with alcohol feel about it.


Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities

[Tim]

Personally, I can find no strictures in my faith to prevent its use. But by the same token, I have never toked and wouldn't want that foul smelling crap in my house anyway.

I love the smell, but then I love the smell of collards cooking too (which others tell me smell like cow flatulence to them). I also like the smell of pipe tobacco and quite a few cigars. However I despise the taste of tobacco so I imagine I wouldn't like marijuana either.

[graatz]

wouldn't want that foul smelling crap in my house anyway.

:sigh: sadly with apartment living, I get plenty of the skunky smell without having to break the law. I'm not sure if it's a "religious" reason (if I'm secular, I guess all of my reasons are in tune with my religion), but I don't think I'd be opposed to a clean-smelling air act, which would definitely ban the smoking of marijuana.

[CID_0687]

:doh:

Even "herbal" teas? :))

Actually, I kind of figured that LDS and tea-totalling Baptists, Methodists and Pentecostals, etc would have a problem with marijuana too. I'm wondering how those who are currently okay with alcohol feel about it.
I'm Pentecostal and I drink. I was never a pot smoker, I can count the number of times I've smoked it on both hands. My view is this, as a Christian one must obey God's law as well as the law of the land. As it stands now pot is still illegal in the US. If it was legal, however, I'd have no problem with it. And morally I don't have an issue with it.

[Marleysdaddy]

Personally, I can find no strictures in my faith to prevent its use. But by the same token, I have never toked and wouldn't want that foul smelling crap in my house anyway.

See Koushi? That's the problem...you've only encountered the "foul smelling crap" ;)

[gpd®]

See Koushi? That's the problem...you've only encountered the "foul smelling crap" ;)

the "Dank"

[DRS]

Drinking in moderation is not sinful according to the bible

Over indulgence or the dependence on alcohol is.

In Revelation 21:8 we find the word pharmakois which literally means druggers as those who suffer the second death

In the ancient times drug use and spiritism were tied in together hence most bible translate this as sourcers or spiritism

[Marleysdaddy]

Drinking in moderation is not sinful according to the bible


I agree...though we have seen on this forum that one's views on this depend heavily on one's interpretation of the Bible...

[meggers49]

I am opposed to marijuana for many reasons. First being, I don't like to be 'out of control'. I don't drink to excess....I barely drink at all actually, I have never smoked cigarettes, I certainly wouldn't smoke something that is worse for my lungs than they are. Third, I cannot abide how it smells and last and at this time most important to me, it's not legal.

Personally, even if it was legal, I would be against it. I find dealing with people who are high more irritating to deal with someone who's drunk. I loathe driving behind them and a rational conversation is impossible. A person who has had a couple drinks (but isn't hammered) is certainly someone you can have interesting exchanges of ideas with. A person who's stoned thinks everything they say is witty beyond measure, astute and deep.

Then of course there is the paranoia.....that's pretty funny actually, but I have a very bent sense of humor.

As to religious stance, I would say that because it would be breaking the law, it would be a sin, but I don't think it's specifically prohibited.

[adroit]

To everyone who is against it because of the smell, taste, etc, if it were legal, what about some good ole weed brownies?

I've never tried marijuana, but wife permitting (that'll never happen!), if it were legal I wouldn't mind trying a brownie or two.

[European]

Besides the fact that I dont belive in God I do not drink any alcohol,I dont smoke and I dont eat animal products.

But I don't have a problem with people smoking Marihuana as long as they dont do it everyday the same with alcohol.
Still I dont understand why drinking is allowed when smoking weed isnt because Alcohol is much more damaging to your body than weed could ever be.Also when your high you're not agressive at all while when alcoholized some people tend to be agressive.
In my opinion both should be allowed.The Individual should decide whether he or she wants to live a life drug free or not.
The governments should tell the people more about the risks of smoking cigarettes/weed and drinking alkohol,and parents should talk about that with their kids but without like punishing them for taking these drugs.

[Tim]

I'd like to request that we keep the conversation on topic as regards the use of marijuana as it relates to each person's religious views.

There are numerous other threads on the other forums within Hannity.com where we can discuss the pros and cons of legalization and similarly related topics.

This is the Religious Forum and as such I think we'd be wise to stay on topic lest the topic be moved to another forum.

Also, as the OP, I am really curious in learning a little more about each of the participants in the RF and think this topic might open up a little more about our various personalities and beliefs. I've come to feel very fond of many/most of the folks here and would like to get a bit more of an understanding of their beliefs.

"Troops" already surprised me with his accepting attitude toward any believers who might not feel that smoking weed is okay if legalized. He shared that he would not participate or allow it in his home but that he views it as a personal decision for each believer to make. (Troops, correct me if my paraphrase of your postion is inaccurate in any way.)

Thanks guys and gals!

[orbitaldecay]

Being LDS, the use of coffee, tea, alcohol, and tobacco are against the tenants of my faith. Therefore, the question of Marijuana in pretty much a no-brainer. :)

Specifically from Modern-Day Revelation:

The Word of Wisdom contains some very positive aspects. It encourages us to use grains, particularly wheat, and to use fruits and vegetables and the sparing use of meat. It is also noted for its prohibition—absolute prohibition—against the use of alcohol, tobacco, tea, and coffee. Added to this has been the counsel of the Church leaders to abstain from the use of such drugs as marijuana, cocaine, etc., and the abusive use of prescription drugs.

http://lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d 82620aRCRD&locale=0&sourceId=843ddbdcc370c010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&hideNav=1

[terri910]

. It's like when you...smoke your first cigarette. It was most likely pleasurable.
Is this true for anyone? I will never forget trying a cigarette for the first (and only) time. All it did was make me cough. Personally, I do not find coughing pleasurable, and the idea of paying good money to cough even less pleasurable.

One try was all it took. I've never wanted to try again.

[Gem]

:doh:

Even "herbal" teas? :))

Actually, I kind of figured that LDS and tea-totalling Baptists, Methodists and Pentecostals, etc would have a problem with marijuana too. I'm wondering how those who are currently okay with alcohol feel about it.


I am Oneness Pentecostal. I like my coffee and tea.
Our church is against anything that hurts your body.
Like smoking, drinking, and drugs.

[Herradura]

If you’re a Rastafarian your good to go….:cool:

[CID_0687]

If you’re a Rastafarian your good to go….:cool:
Rastafari!!

[BrittleBullet]

Rastafari!!

I'm not a Rasta but I do own one of those Jamaican hats with the dreads hanging out.

Its a holy herb...

[smyrna]

See Koushi? That's the problem...you've only encountered the "foul smelling crap" ;)

:eek::arrow::D ;)

[LeroyBrown]

I saw this video from Fox and Friends:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1G1SOwjD00&eurl=http://boortz.com/nealz_nuze/index.html&feature=player_embedded

Just for the record, I do not smoke pot and have no desire to smoke it. I do think that it will be legalized within my lifetime (next 25 years) however.

Something I've not heard discussed much is how various people's religious beliefs relate to the use of marijuana. So here is my question:

If/when marijuana use is legalized does your religious doctrine/personal beliefs allow for the recreational use of it? (And for the sake of this discussion let's try to keep the "abuse" of it or any other substance out of the equation).

Yes but with some restrictions:

If is causes me to sin or creates an environment for me in which sinning is easier, I need to abstain.
If my use of it causes another brother or sister in Christ that observes me to stumble then I need to abstain.
If I am coming before the Lord in worship, I need to abstain.

[Herradura]

Its a holy herb...

The Rastafarians believe that to be true.

[HardHammer]

Marijuana can be classified in the mind/thought altering catagory, it indeed does produce a euphoric effect that could impair motor functions dramatically, depending on the person using it.

That said, it really should not be compared to alcohol, heroin, meth, extasy or FDA controlled opiate drugs. These drugs cause a whole different set of actions to take place and can/will have long lasting effects if used frequently as a result of them being physically addictive, possibly with the exception of extasy, I don't know if enough study had been done to form a opinion regarding extasy and it's addictive properties.

But to address the Religous aspect of it's use, make no mistake it is sin! It indeed seperates one from their personal relationship with God. One could use it for any number of medicinal purposes, but in California, it is used primarily for recreational use under the blanket of medical use.

Some people have obtained measurable wealth as a result of growing it in their homes and selling it back to the Pot Clubs at a substantial profit and tax free I might add, as a result of no controls of the source of the product.

My assembly see's it no different than alcohol or any other drug may become dependant on, some drugs are used for chronic pain, but do alter ones personality in the process.

So is one damned to Hell for using Marijuana, I don't think so, no more than one who drinks a beers/wine from time to time.

Titus 2:11-14 (New King James Version)


Trained by Saving Grace


11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people, zealous for good works.

We should strive to live soberly, but if medical conditions prevent us from havnig a decent quality of life, then I believe we should try and manage that. I believe God would understand, though the condition may be managed, it by no means prevents the long-suffering associated to a chronic pain patient or their desire to strive for Gods Will in their life.

[Herradura]

But to address the Religous aspect of it's use, make no mistake it is sin! It indeed seperates one from their personal relationship with God.

Yes, this is absolutely true. I’m sorry if I gave the wrong impression with my comments.

[optrader]

Having grown up in a house with an alcoholic mother, and both parents smoking dope daily, I have a good idea of what long term use does to a person. First, it is a mind altering substance, if it wasn't, it wouldn't be popular. For those who may be ok with its use or legalization, let me ask you a question: How comfortable would you be if you were about to undergo brain surgery, and you find out right before they put you under, your surgeon decided to mellow out first by burning a fat one? I'm sure you think it's use should only be done at home, people should not drive, operate machinery, or work, etc. while stoned. Given how well that policy has worked with alcohol, pardon my skepticism it would work better with marijuana.

Marijuana does indeed mellow you out, so much so that chronic users frequently get too mellow to move. It robs a person of drive and ambition. Getting things done becomes less important than getting stoned. It's dinner time and the kids need fed, and right after this one more bong hit, I'll get to it...

It's expensive and takes money away from other things. The one thing I've learned is that no body is ever too broke to afford their vices.


True, it perhaps isn't physically addictive, like alcohol, but it is definitely psychologically addictive. People get to the point where they just can't face lifes daily problems without the blunting effect of marijuana, but like alcohol, the problems don't go away just because you've put them off for awhile.


Truthfully, I'd rather be in a car as a passenger with someone driving stoned as opposed to drunk. Truthfully, I'd rather our jails be filled with the pedophiles we currently have not enough room for because of all the dope smokers we have locked up. Truthfully, the biggest reason marijuana is illegal is because the government can't regulate it, tax it and make money off it, it's too easy for people to grow their own little "herb gardens" at home.

These "truths" though, are hardly reason to endorse making it legal, thus, I don't believe God would condone it's use...

[Drew2]

I saw this video from Fox and Friends:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1G1SOwjD00&eurl=http://boortz.com/nealz_nuze/index.html&feature=player_embedded

Just for the record, I do not smoke pot and have no desire to smoke it. I do think that it will be legalized within my lifetime (next 25 years) however.

Something I've not heard discussed much is how various people's religious beliefs relate to the use of marijuana. So here is my question:

If/when marijuana use is legalized does your religious doctrine/personal beliefs allow for the recreational use of it? (And for the sake of this discussion let's try to keep the "abuse" of it or any other substance out of the equation).

I don't smoke pot and I don't drink alcohol, but I have absolutely no religious/ moral compromise with marijuana legalization. There's nothing wrong in my opinion with the responsible and casual use of either.

I definitely support the legalization of medical marijuana. To deny a person pain relief ( particularly in the last years of their life) under medical supervision seems inhumane and at the very least borderline un-Christian to me.

I consider my addiction to cigarettes more morally compromising than either of the above.

[Kenny216]

I believe that marijuana should be legal. I am not in favor of any other drugs being legal. I do not believe that marijuana is in fact a gateway drug. Countries who have legalized marijuana has seen crime rates regarding marijuana go down. In my opinion, marijuana is not addictive, and has never caused anyone to overdose. The only way a person can overdose on marijuana is by consuming an absurd amount of it.

[rob_b52]

I'm Pentecostal and I drink. I was never a pot smoker, I can count the number of times I've smoked it on both hands. My view is this, as a Christian one must obey God's law as well as the law of the land. As it stands now pot is still illegal in the US. If it was legal, however, I'd have no problem with it. And morally I don't have an issue with it.

I do not mean any insult when I say this... I ask out of ignorance as to what a pentacostal is..... are you the folks who run around and speak in tongues? I think I saw that on the Borat movie.

as for the pot stuff.... I think I would find religion much more interesting and appealing if I could practice it high as a kite

[KYCutlassGuy]

Alot of people that smoke it look like Jesus. With that said:

Smoking the wacky weed with hippies = seeing God