Sunday, May 24, 2009

Ganja

One of the most intriguing elements of the Rastafari faith is the ritualistic use of marijuana, or ganja. Ganja is used to help bridge the gap between the spiritual world and the physical world, and it is an essential part of Rastafari tradition. Even though its importance is clear, many countries do not allow Rastafari residents to grow/ingest ganja. I don't understand how this religious ritual can be denied to Rastas--it's like denying Christians the right to partake of wine during communion. No, it's worse than that. Juice can be substituted for wine and it does not alter the ceremony (the alcoholic content of wine is not necessary for the communion experience). But there is not a legal alternative to marijuana that allows for the same type of religious experience.

When will this world learn...

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