Pharmakia, Plant Medicines, Addiction, Escapism, Shamanism & With Robert Orem

You probably already know that I’ve become increasingly disillusioned with the use of plant medicines.
There were many, many factors that went into this change of perspective, which I wrote about in depth in a popular, somewhat controversial two-part article series, The Big Problem With “Plant Medicines”: (read Part 1 here and Part 2 here). Then, last month, I followed up with a podcast entirely devoted to the topic of plant medicine.
A key book I read that significantly informed my decisions on this topic was titled Pharmakia: The Biblical View of Drug Use, by Robert Orem. This is a book that I often mention these days when I’m discussing plant medicines (and in my opinion, if you’re using or thinking about using plant medicines, this is a book you must read). Many people aren’t even aware that the Bible refers to drug use (in fact, there are 37 distinct references to drugs in the Bible), but Robert’s book is more than just a thorough investigation into what the Bible says about drugs. It is also a powerful, hope-filled message of hope, love, and freedom from addiction for drug users and addicts, or folks who feel like they are heavily attached to or dependent on plant medicines.
Robert, my guest on this podcast, is a Christian, former drug addict who researched the Bible’s references to drug use for many years. A teacher in jails, treatment centers, schools, and churches, he recently launched In Step Fellowships, a biblical recovery group for all types of addiction.
In today’s podcast, Robert shares his personal history with plant medicines and drug addiction, what the word “Pharmakia” really means, his fascinating views on whether God created plant medicines for specific purposes, and much more. (And P.S., if you’re as interested in this topic as I am, definitely listen to this upcoming Saturday’s podcast, too.)

During our discussion, you’ll discover:

-Robert Orem’s journey towards plant medicine…08:10

-Did Robert ever get into ayahuasca and mind-expanding spiritual exploration?…12:03

-The link between drug use and spirituality and the dangers of it…21:14

-What is pharmakia? Is it the use of drugs specifically for divination?…35:15

-White magic shamans claim they can go into battles with demons or dark spirits through the powers of Jesus and God. Is that also pharmakia?…40:23

-Oils and incense used by Holy priests are a psychedelic mix and an exception to pharmakeia?…56:19

-The grandfathers of plant medicine and their resentment of Christianity…01:03:33

-Did the church have a great deal of influence from the use of entheogens?…01:13:44

You can check out the full episode page and show notes at:
https://bengreenfieldlife.com/podcast/pharmakia-robert-orem/

Additional Resources:
Ben Greenfield Website: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/

Ben Greenfield Podcast: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/podcast/

Ben Greenfield Books: https://shopbengreenfieldlife.com/collections/books

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