The Etymology and Biblical Significance of "Kaneh Bosem"

The question of whether the Hebrew phrase "kaneh bosem" (קנה בשם) refers to cannabis has been a subject of debate and scholarly inquiry. The phrase appears in the Old Testament and is often translated as "aromatic cane" or "fragrant reed." To understand its potential connection to cannabis, we must examine its etymology, historical context, and the interpretations of various scholars.

Etymological Analysis

The Hebrew phrase "kaneh bosem" is composed of two words: "kaneh" (קנה) and "bosem" (בֹּשֶׂם). "Kaneh" means "reed" or "stalk" and is derived from the root Q.N.A, which means "to acquire, purchase, or buy." [1] "Bosem" means "spice" or "balsam" and comes from the root B.S.M, meaning "to be fragrant." [1]

Biblical References and Interpretations

The etymology of "kaneh bosem" is relevant to the discussion of cannabis because the word "cannabis" itself has an interesting history. The plant name "cannabis" is believed to be a Scythian word that was borrowed into Persian as "kanab," then into Greek as "kánnabis," and finally into Latin as "cannabis." [2] Some scholars suggest that "kaneh bosem" may be the origin of the word "cannabis," similar to how the Hebrew word "qinamon" (קנמון) is the origin of the English word "cinnamon." [1]

The most significant reference to "kaneh bosem" appears in Exodus 30:23, where God instructs Moses to create a holy anointing oil. The recipe includes myrrh, cinnamon, "kaneh bosem," and cassia. [1] This oil was used to anoint the tabernacle and the priesthood. [1]

The key question is whether "kaneh bosem" in this context refers to cannabis. Sula Benet, a Polish anthropologist and etymologist, argued that "kaneh" and "kaneh bosem" are references to cannabis. [3] She identified five specific references in the Hebrew Bible, including Exodus 30:23. [3] Chris Bennett, author of "Cannabis: Lost Sacrament of the Ancient World," expanded on Benet's work and has cited numerous academic sources that agree with the identification of "kaneh bosem" as cannabis. [4]

Historical and Archaeological Evidence

However, traditional translations often render "kaneh bosem" as "calamus" or "aromatic cane." [3] This has led to debate among scholars. Some believe that the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, mistranslated "kaneh bosem" as "calamus." [3] Others suggest that the term may refer to other fragrant plants.

Historical and archaeological evidence supports the possibility of cannabis use in ancient Israel. Cannabis was indigenous to the Middle East and used for various purposes. [1] Archaeological findings in Israel have revealed evidence of cannabis use in religious rituals. [5] In 2020, a study of an ancient Hebrew shrine in Tel Arad found that one of the altars tested positive for cannabis resin. [5]

Conclusion

The use of cannabis in the ancient world was multifaceted, including its use as a food source, fiber, medicine, and for its psychoactive effects. [6] Some scholars have speculated that the psychoactive properties of cannabis may have played a role in the "Great Leap Forward" in human history. [6]

While the exact meaning of "kaneh bosem" remains a subject of debate, there is compelling evidence to suggest that it may refer to cannabis. The etymological similarities between "kaneh bosem" and "cannabis," the historical use of cannabis in the Near East, and archaeological findings in ancient Israel all support this possibility. However, it is important to acknowledge that other interpretations exist, and the definitive meaning of "kaneh bosem" is not universally agreed upon.

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