The Reed as Kaneh-Bosem: A Sacred Gift

The question concerns the linguistic interpretation of "kaneh-bosem" and its potential connection to cannabis. The core argument posits that the traditional translation of "kaneh-bosem" as "calamus" is inaccurate, and that a more accurate translation, based on linguistic analysis, points to cannabis. This interpretation is primarily attributed to the work of Dr. Sula Benet and other Semitic linguists. The following analysis will explore the linguistic evidence supporting this claim, drawing on relevant sources.

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The primary evidence for the cannabis interpretation of "kaneh-bosem" rests on phonetic similarities between the Hebrew term and words for cannabis in other ancient languages. The argument suggests that "kaneh-bosem" shares phonetic roots with words like "qaneh," "kanbos," and "kannab," which are associated with cannabis in various ancient languages. This phonetic connection forms the basis for the claim that "kaneh-bosem" refers to cannabis rather than calamus. The work of Dr. Sula Benet is central to this interpretation. Benet's research, often cited in support of this view, focuses on the etymological and linguistic analysis of ancient texts, including the Bible, to identify the presence of cannabis.

The linguistic argument hinges on the identification of phonetic parallels across different ancient languages, suggesting a shared linguistic origin and a common referent: cannabis.

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