The question explores the theological implications of cannabis in relation to Genesis 1:29, contrasting it with calamus. The core argument posits that cannabis, as a "seed-bearing plant," aligns with the biblical verse, while calamus, due to its toxicity and impracticality, is a less likely candidate, potentially a later scribal substitution. This requires examining the biblical text, historical interpretations, and the properties of both cannabis and calamus.
Theological Implications of Cannabis and Calamus
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The argument hinges on the following points:
The primary theological point of contention revolves around the identification of "kaneh-bosem" (often translated as "fragrant cane") in the Hebrew Bible. The argument presented suggests that cannabis is a more plausible candidate for this plant than calamus, based on its alignment with Genesis 1:29. This verse states, "And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat."
Therefore, the theological implication is that cannabis aligns more closely with the biblical description of a seed-bearing plant in Genesis 1:29, while the association with calamus is less plausible due to its properties and historical context.
- Genesis 1:29 and Seed-Bearing Plants: The verse explicitly mentions "every herb bearing seed." Cannabis is a seed-bearing plant, fitting the description.
- Calamus's Toxicity and Practicality: Calamus, a plant sometimes associated with "kaneh-bosem," is known for its toxicity and limited practical applications compared to cannabis. This makes it a less likely candidate for the biblical uses described.
- Hellenistic Translations and Scribes: The association of "kaneh-bosem" with calamus is often traced to Hellenistic translations. The argument suggests that this might be a later scribal substitution, potentially due to a misunderstanding or misidentification of the original plant.
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