Belief in the effects of drugs is influenced by supernatural forces, as seen in the veneration of plants and trees in ancient tree worship cults. [1]
Belief intoxication rendered one divine, as primitive man worshiped intoxicants as something sacred and divine, leading to the belief that being intoxicated brought one closer to divinity. [2] Intoxicating liquors from plants were believed to bestow divinity, leading to worship of those plants. [3] Shamans were shrewd tricksters who employed drugs to induce physical states and mystify tribesmen. [4]
Gautama's commandment against intoxication: "You shall not drink intoxicating liquors.". [5] Jesus, refusing drugged wine at crucifixion, demonstrated a deep commitment to human consciousness and a willingness to face death on his own terms. [6]
The religion of Jesus is not an opiate but a powerful force that leads humanity upward and onward, providing joy and peace in the spiritual existence to enrich and elevate life in the flesh. [7]
Opium, castor oil, and wine were early medicines used by the Sumerians and later passed down to the Greeks and Egyptians, who evolved rational methods of treating the sick. [8]