Ask A (Born Again) Muslim
What do the Qur’an and Bible say about Marijuana?
Nothing specifically, but:
The Bible does condemn intoxication and “drunkenness” in numerous places. It is clear that Marijuana is an addictive drug. It is not only associated with numerous health problems but also leads to a state of intoxication.
The Miriam-Webster defines intoxication as:
a : the condition of having physical or mental control markedly diminished by the effects of alcohol or drugs
b : a strong excitement or elation
Many of the passages on “being drunk” and “drunkards” or “drunkenness” are often implied to mean a state of intoxication when translated from the Greek word used for these states, not just alcohol-induced drunkenness. These passages can be easily applied to Marijuana (and other illicit drugs that lead to euphoria, loss of self control and addiction). Any substance that causes one to lose self-control and resist temptations is forbidden or at least viewed negatively.
Here is a small sample of such passages in the Bible:
Because we belong to the day, we must live decent lives for all to see. Don’t participate in the darkness of wild parties and drunkenness, or in sexual promiscuity and immoral living, or in quarreling and jealousy. Romans 13:13
When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21
I meant that you are not to associate with anyone who claims to be a believer yet indulges in sexual sin, or is greedy, or worships idols, or is abusive, or is a drunkard, or cheats people. Don’t even eat with such people. 1 Corinthians 5:11
Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 5:18
Intoxication in the Qur’an
The Qur’an also forbids intoxication and any substance that results in self-control and the ability to fight temptations as a result.
They ask you about intoxicants and games of chance (gambling). Say: In both of them there is a great sin (harm) and means of benefit for people, and their sin (harm) is greater than their benefit. And they ask you as to what they should spend. Say: What you can spare. Thus does Allah make clear to you the communications, so that you may ponder. 2:219
O you who believe! Intoxicants and gambling, (dedication of) stones, and (divination by) arrows, are an abomination,- of Satan’s handwork: shun such (abomination), that you may prosper. 5:90
Note the word used in above verses is ‘intoxicant’ and not intoxication. The implications may be the same but unlike the Bible, the Qur’an specifically forbids the use of intoxicants, rather than the state of intoxication. In other words, you don’t have to be stoned for Marijuana to be forbidden. By its very nature and being an “intoxicant”, Marijuana use is forbidden-just like alcohol and other illicit drugs.
Just because the Bible and the Qur’an don’t prohibit Marijuana specifically does not imply its use is allowed. After all, the Scriptures don’t prohibit Heroin and Cocaine by name.
It does not matter whether it is prohibited by name or not. The underlying message is rather clear:
Just don’t do it.
[1] https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/marijuana#ref
[2] https://www.fda.gov/newsevents/publichealthfocus/ucm421163.htm
[3] https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/marijuana-facts-teens/letter-to-teens
[4] https://teens.drugabuse.gov/national-drug-alcohol-facts-week/chat-with-scientists/popular-questions/marijuana
[5] https://www.mailman.columbia.edu/public-health-now/news/mixing-booze-and-pot-serious-threat-traffic-safety
[6] https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/marijuana-gateway-drug
[7] https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/marijuana-facts-teens/letter-to-teens
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