Renewed interest in Turkey’s Nicene Creed anniversary highlights debates over what the Bible and early Christianity say about cannabis. Religion is in the headlines again as the anniversary of the Council of Nicaea (and Pope Leo’s trip) and renewed interest in the Nicene Creed spotlight how early Christian leaders shaped doctrine still influencing billions today. But one question modern readers often ask—especially amid changing laws and attitudes—is what the Bible and early christianity say about cannabis. While Scripture speaks extensively about wine, healing plants, personal conduct, and community responsibility, it is silent on marijuana specifically. Yet the silence has not prevented centuries of debate. Cannabis was known in parts of the ancient Near East, used in textiles, oils, and occasionally medicinal preparations. But unlike wine, olives, figs, or incense, cannabis is not directly mentioned in the Hebrew Bible or New Testament. Early Christian writings, including those formalized centuries later at Nicaea, focused on defining the divinity of Christ, church hierarchy, and doctrine—not herbal substances. Some modern scholars point to the Hebrew term kaneh-bosm (“aromatic reed”) in the Old Testament anointing oil recipe as a possible reference to cannabis. Most linguists, however, link the word to calamus or lemongrass. In other words, there is no clear historical or doctrinal statement on cannabis from early Christianity. A cultural shift is reflected in national polling showing alcohol use declining while cannabis use—particularly in legal and medical contexts—continues to rise. Wellness-focused adults increasingly prefer marijuana’s lower calorie impact, more predictable effects, and the ability to tailor dosage. Faith communities are also engaging with this trend. Pastors and theologians note believers who avoid heavy drinking for spiritual or health reasons sometimes view moderate cannabis use as comparable to taking a sleep aid or pain reliever. The guiding idea echoes Scripture’s longstanding teaching on alcohol: the issue is not the plant itself but whether its use reflects self-control, care for the body, and respect for others. While cannabis is absent, alcohol is not. The Bible frequently acknowledges wine as part of daily life, ritual, and celebration. Jesus famously turns water into wine, and Paul encourages Timothy to use “a little wine for the sake of your stomach.” At the same time, drunkenness is strongly condemned. Both Old and New Testaments warn believers about losing self-control, harming others, and becoming dependent. These teachings have shaped centuries of Christian attitudes toward moderation—teachings many believers admit are not always followed closely. Surveys regularly show Christian communities vary widely: some practice total abstinence, others embrace moderate consumption, and still others treat alcohol casually. As medical marijuana becomes widely legalized, Christian ethicists increasingly frame the issue through the lens of healing. The Bible repeatedly affirms the use of natural plants for health and calls believers to care for the sick. Early Christian communities used herbal remedies freely; church fathers wrote about medicine as part of God’s provision. For many modern believers, medical cannabis fits within this tradition when used responsibly and under medical supervision. Others remain cautious, echoing concerns similar to those once raised about alcohol or tobacco. Perhaps the clearest biblical guidance relevant to today’s cannabis debate is Jesus’ instruction in Matthew 7: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” Early Christianity emphasized compassion, humility, and supporting neighbors rather than policing personal behavior. In an era of shifting laws and cultural norms, many theologians argue this teaching should guide discussions more than any search for ancient prohibitions. Where Scripture is silent, Christians are called to emphasize wisdom, moderation, care for health, and respect for others. As debates continue in both religious and political spheres, the biblical message may be less about the plant itself and more about the enduring principles of responsibility, healing, and community.

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

The Fresh Toast