The Bible and Calamus vs. Cannabis: A Linguistic and Botanical Examination
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The question of whether the Bible references cannabis, rather than calamus, has sparked debate due to the similarity between the Hebrew words. The King James Version (KJV) translates the Hebrew word "qaneh" into "calamus," which appears in Exodus 30:23, Song of Solomon 4:14, and Ezekiel 27:19.[1] However, some scholars argue that "qaneh" could have been mistranslated, and the intended word might have been related to cannabis.[1]
The Hebrew word for "calamus" is "kanah bosm," which is plural, and the singular form, "kaneh bos," sounds remarkably similar to the modern word "cannabis."[1] The current Hebrew word for cannabis is "kanabos," according to Webster’s New Hebrew dictionary.[1]
Calamus: Botanical and Toxicological Considerations
The argument for cannabis hinges on the etymology of the Hebrew word and the potential for misinterpretation in the Septuagint, the oldest Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible.[1] Sula Benet, a Polish etymologist, presented evidence suggesting that the word for cannabis, "kaneh-bosm," was present in the original Hebrew text and was used as incense and an intoxicant.[1]
Cannabis: Historical and Medicinal Perspectives
Calamus, often identified as sweet flag (Acorus calamus), is a plant with a distinct aroma.[2] However, it is also a known toxin.[1] The FDA banned calamus from food and medicines in 1968 because it contains asarone, a compound that has been shown to cause cancer and negatively affect the heart, liver, and kidneys.[1] This raises questions about why God would specify a large quantity of a poison for the holy anointing oil.[1]
Song of Solomon 4:14: A Closer Look
Cannabis, on the other hand, has a long history of use, including in religious ceremonies.[1] Archaeological evidence from the Tel Arad shrine in Israel suggests that cannabis was used in rituals.[1] Cannabis has also been used for its medicinal properties, with some individuals reporting that it has saved their lives.[1]
Song of Solomon 4:14 describes the bride's garden as containing "nard and saffron, calamus and cinnamon, with all trees of frankincense, myrrh and aloes, with all the finest spices."[3] The verse lists various spices and aromatic plants that were highly valued in ancient times for their beauty, rarity, and usefulness.[4] The mention of these plants highlights the bride’s uniqueness and worth.[4]
Conclusion
The term "calamus" in this verse is translated from the Hebrew word "qaneh," which means "a reed."[1] The verse also mentions other spices, such as cinnamon, frankincense, myrrh, and aloes, which were used in perfumes, anointing oils, and temple worship.[3]
The debate over whether the Bible references calamus or cannabis involves linguistic, botanical, and historical considerations. While the KJV translates "qaneh" as "calamus," the similarity to the word "cannabis" and the potential for mistranslation warrant further examination.[1] The toxic nature of calamus and the historical use of cannabis, including in religious contexts, add complexity to the discussion.[1] Ultimately, the interpretation of Song of Solomon 4:14 and other relevant passages depends on a careful analysis of the original languages, historical context, and the reader's perspective.[1]
Authoritative Sources
- THE BIBLE and CALAMUS vs. CANNABIS. [standingupfortruth.wordpress.com/2015/10/15/the-bible-and-calamus-vs-cannabis/]↩
- Calamus in the Bible. [gotquestions.org/calamus-in-the-Bible.html]↩
- Song of Solomon 4:14. [biblehub.com/songs/4-14.htm]↩
- Song of Solomon 4:14 – “Nard and saffron, calamus and cinnamon, with every kind of incense tree, with myrrh and aloes and all the finest spices.” [videobible.com/meaning/song-of-solomon-4-14]↩
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