Getting high with the most high

Entheogens in the Old Testament

Bibliographic Data

ID4683375
AuthorsDanny Nemu (IndependentResearcher,PsychedelicPress, corresponding author)
Year2019
Volume3
Issue2
Pages117-132
Publication date2019-03-07
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Psychedelic Studies (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2559-9283 • E-ISSN: 2559-9283
PublisherAkademiai Kiado Zrt (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1556/2054.2019.004
OpenAlexW2921330449
LanguageEN
Citations received7
References cited83

This article collects evidence from psychopharmacology, scripture, and archeology to explore several preparations for consumption described in the Old Testament: Manna, Showbread, the Holy Ointment, and the Tabernacle Incense. The Ointment and the Incense are herbal preparations used by the priestly caste to facilitate a direct experience of the Israelite God. A wide variety of psychoactive components are found in these preparations, including GABA-receptor agonists and modulators, opioid receptor agonists, and other agents. They are normally broken down by the body's enzymes, and therefore orally inactive, but the Holy Ointment also contains inhibitors specific to the enzymes in question. The preparations indicate that the ancient Israelites had a profound understanding of synergism, and the way they are consumed and the taboos around them are highly suggestive of their use as psychoactive agents

Archaeology · Art · Incense · Israelites · Literature · Biochemical Analysis and Sensing Techniques · Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research · History · Psychedelics and Drug Studies

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