The Intersections Between the Entheogenic and LGBTQ+ Movements

A Journey of Resilience and Advocacy

As we celebrate Pride Month, we explore the intertwined narratives of the LGBTQ+ and the Entheogenic (psychedelic) movements. Both communities, though distinct, have shown remarkable resilience in advocating for acceptance, rights, and freedom. This article highlights the parallels and intersections between these two dynamic spheres.

A Brief Backdrop: The Birth of Movements

The LGBTQ+ movement and Pride Month were born from the Stonewall riots in 1969, when members of the LGBTQ+ community in New York City resisted police harassment, sparking a wave of activism. This pivotal moment was a loud cry for acceptance, equality, and the freedom to love and identify openly.

Similarly, the Entheogenic movement emerged out of a defiance against prevailing norms. The use of psychedelic substances, known for their transformative potential, has often been misunderstood and stigmatized. Like the LGBTQ+ community, advocates of entheogens have faced legal and societal obstacles in their fight for recognition, understanding, and responsible use.

Unfolding Narratives: Advocacy and Resilience

Both movements represent marginalized groups advocating for autonomy, understanding, and acceptance. In the case of the LGBTQ+ community, the struggle has been for recognition of diverse identities and relationships, against a backdrop of homophobia and transphobia.

For psychedelic facilitators, the fight is about breaking through the stigmatization surrounding these substances, advocating for their potential therapeutic uses, and promoting responsible and safe use. The parallels between these two movements are undeniable: both have faced societal misunderstanding and prejudice, and yet have shown resilience and persistence in their advocacy.

Common Grounds: Healing and Transformation

At their cores, both movements are about healing and transformation. The LGBTQ+ movement has done significant work in promoting mental health and personal growth, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity. Similarly, the Entheogenic movement acknowledges the transformative power of psychedelic substances, viewing them as tools for healing, personal growth, and self-understanding.

Unity in Diversity

As we celebrate Pride Month, we acknowledge the intersections between the LGBTQ+ and Entheogenic movements. We honor the resilience of these communities and their ongoing fight for acceptance, understanding, and freedom. As advocates of diversity and transformation, we stand in solidarity with all those seeking to live authentically and freely. Here’s to a future where love is love, healing is accessible, and personal growth is celebrated.

IT’S OFFICIAL!

We’re a California formed NON-PROFIT ORG! We and the state of California are OFFICIALLY HITCHED!

Thank you Alicia @ the FTB for all the painsaking emails back and forth until we got the forms right!

A determination letter basically declares us a non-profit org in the state of California so all donations will be tax exempt.

We need tons of helping organizing for the MAPS Science 2023 show in Denver, CO this June! We’ll be in booth #235. Email info@entheo.info.

Entheogens and the Bible: Exploring the Mystical Connections

Summary

This article explores the speculative connections between entheogens, psychoactive substances used for religious and spiritual purposes, and the Bible. The possible connections discussed include the Tree of Knowledge in the Garden of Eden, Moses’ encounter with the burning bush, the mysterious food manna provided to the Israelites, and the controversial theory presented by John M. Allegro in “The Sacred Mushroom and the Cross.” While these connections remain speculative and controversial, they offer intriguing insights into the potential influence of entheogens on biblical stories and religious experiences.

Introduction

The use of entheogens, psychoactive substances employed for religious and spiritual purposes, has been a part of human history across many cultures. These substances have been known to induce mystical experiences and altered states of consciousness, allowing people to gain insights into the divine. In this article, we will explore the possible connections between entheogens and the Bible, examining the potential influence of these substances on biblical stories and practices. Although these connections remain speculative and controversial, they provide a fascinating insight into the potential interplay between psychoactive substances and religious texts.

1. The Tree of Knowledge in the Garden of Eden

One of the most famous stories in the Bible is the tale of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. The Tree of Knowledge, from which they were forbidden to eat, has been suggested to represent an entheogen by some researchers. The consumption of its fruit led to a sudden awakening of self-awareness, a characteristic that parallels the effects of some entheogens.

Source: Ruck, C.A.P., & Hoffman, M.A. (2012). Entheogens, Myth, and Human Consciousness. Berkeley, CA: Ronin Publishing.

2. Moses and the Burning Bush

The biblical story of Moses’ encounter with the burning bush has been theorized to involve the use of an entheogen. Benny Shanon, an Israeli professor of psychology, suggests that the Acacia tree, which is rich in the psychoactive compound DMT, could have been the source of the divine communication. The vivid imagery and profound spiritual experience described by Moses might have been induced by the consumption of DMT-containing substances.

Source: Shanon, B. (2008). Biblical Entheogens: A Speculative Hypothesis. Time and Mind, 1(1), 51-74.

3. Manna: The Psychedelic Sacrament of the Bible

Manna, the mysterious food provided by God to the Israelites during their time in the desert, has been proposed to be an entheogen by some scholars. In his book “The Mystery of Manna,” Dan Merkur suggests that manna may have had psychoactive properties that contributed to the spiritual experiences of the Israelites.

Source: Merkur, D. (2000). The Mystery of Manna: The Psychedelic Sacrament of the Bible. Rochester, VT: Park Street Press.

4. The Sacred Mushroom and the Cross

John M. Allegro’s controversial book, “The Sacred Mushroom and the Cross,” argues that Christianity originated from an ancient fertility cult that used the Amanita muscaria mushroom, an entheogen, in their rituals. Allegro’s work has been met with skepticism and criticism, but it has also generated significant interest in the topic.

Source: Allegro, J.M. (1970). The Sacred Mushroom and the Cross: A Study of the Nature and Origins of Christianity within the Fertility Cults of the Ancient Near East. Garden City, NY: Doubleday.

Conclusion

While the connections between entheogens and the Bible remain speculative, they offer a thought-provoking perspective on the potential influence of psychoactive substances on religious experiences and texts. As research on entheogens continues to expand, new insights into their historical and cultural significance may further illuminate these mystical connections. It is crucial to approach these theories with an open mind while maintaining critical thinking and recognizing the limitations of current knowledge. 

Mushroom Regulation: Avoiding the Amsterdam Catastrophe and Involving Religious Organizations

Summary

The Amsterdam Catastrophe in 2008 serves as a valuable lesson for the United States in creating a balanced regulatory framework for psilocybin use. The key lessons from this incident include comprehensive education and information dissemination, strict age restrictions, regulating the sale and distribution, support and resources for mental health, and the involvement of religious organizations. By learning from this experience and integrating religious organizations into the process, the United States can create a responsible environment for psilocybin use, respecting its spiritual and therapeutic potential while avoiding similar catastrophes in the future.

Introduction:

In 2008, Amsterdam experienced a significant event that forced the city to rethink its regulations on magic mushrooms, or psilocybin-containing fungi. The so-called “Amsterdam Catastrophe” followed an increase in the number of incidents and emergencies related to mushroom consumption by uninformed or reckless users. The United States, where psilocybin use is gaining momentum, must now learn from Amsterdam’s experience to create a more effective regulatory framework. An important aspect to consider is the role of religious organizations that provide access to psilocybin for spiritual and therapeutic purposes.

The Amsterdam Catastrophe:

In 2008, a 17-year-old French girl, under the influence of magic mushrooms, jumped to her death from a bridge in Amsterdam. This tragic event led to a public outcry, with many calling for stricter regulations on psilocybin sales and consumption. In response, the Dutch government banned the sale of fresh magic mushrooms in smartshops, allowing only the sale of “magic truffles,” a less potent form of the substance.

Learning from Amsterdam and Engaging Religious Organizations:

The United States can learn from the Amsterdam Catastrophe and establish a more balanced approach to psilocybin regulation, involving religious organizations that advocate for the responsible use of psilocybin. Here are five key lessons that can guide the United States in creating a better regulatory framework for psilocybin:

1. Comprehensive Education and Information Dissemination:

The United States should prioritize public education campaigns on the safe use and potential risks of psilocybin. Religious organizations can play a crucial role in disseminating accurate information about responsible consumption, dosage, and possible side effects, helping to minimize accidents and misuse.

2. Strict Age Restrictions:

To prevent incidents like the one in Amsterdam, the United States should enforce strict age restrictions on the sale and consumption of psilocybin-containing products, limiting access to adults 21 years and older. Religious organizations should also adhere to these age restrictions when offering access to psilocybin in spiritual and therapeutic contexts.

3. Regulating the Sale and Distribution:

The United States could consider a regulatory framework that controls the sale and distribution of psilocybin-containing products. Licensed retailers, including religious organizations, should be subject to inspections and oversight to ensure that products meet quality standards and are distributed only to qualified customers. This approach can help reduce the risks associated with unregulated, underground markets.

4. Support and Resources for Mental Health:

Amsterdam’s experience highlights the need for mental health support and resources for those who experience negative effects from psilocybin use. The United States should invest in mental health services, including hotlines, clinics, and support groups. Religious organizations can also contribute by offering spiritual guidance and counseling to those in need.

5. Collaboration between Religious Organizations and Regulatory Agencies:

Establishing a dialogue and cooperation between religious organizations and regulatory agencies can help create a comprehensive and effective framework for psilocybin use in the United States. This collaboration can ensure that the spiritual and therapeutic use of psilocybin is safely integrated into the broader regulatory landscape.

Conclusion:

The Amsterdam Catastrophe offers valuable lessons for the United States as it navigates the complex issue of psilocybin regulation. By learning from this incident and adopting a balanced approach that emphasizes education, age restrictions, regulated sale and distribution, and mental health support, the United States can create a more responsible environment for psilocybin use. Involving religious organizations in this process is essential to ensure that the spiritual and therapeutic potential of psilocybin is respected and safely integrated into society, avoiding a similar catastrophe in the future.

EP Intake Form – Google Finalist Logos

Meeting Minutes 3/29/2022

Recording

Topic: Entheology Kickoff
Start Time: Mar 29, 2022 05:52 PM

Meeting Recording

Access Passcode: 1WM*a.EH

-Rev’s Story- worked in teh for years until he started microdosing — just for partying purposes. Had a really hard time integrating and took 4 years to process his experienceds mushrooms brought him to confections including making chocolates. Due to the netgative experiences with secure commerce, banks not accepting money, quality control, safe distribution, we have come up with a solution for all of these problems on the back ends of the psychedelic industry. (SEE TABLES)

-we built a website: entheologyold.wpengine.com ; yelp or resource on entheogens (ie entheologist advisors or consultant); video sessions

PROMISES:

-give credence to the name and the mission of this organization

-Keep the supply chain secure and separate from the entheologists and done through the church as a way to secure commerce

-organization brings in the consumers through referrals; seekers are desperately looking for help and not finding people with experience and knowledge]

-Integration Required on all medicine and medicine product

-Percentage/Fees:

-What is an Entheologist?

-Entheologic not accessible to layperson or google search

-Name decided: The Entheology Project

-Patrick brought up a CSA (Community Squared Agriculture) model

-Legal Defense Fund

-Protection has people taking advantage of system? Problems with equity?

-Yelp plus talkspace marketplace

-“indirect”marketplace

-integrators physical, legal, and financial security in mind.

-domain custody taken care of

-Katelin: How are we vetting people?

-it will be open to the public. Community Manager will be responsible for onlining and vetting

-Directory- Chaia

patrickironwood@gmail.com

Agenda

• Introduction
• What is: (proposed)
  • Entheology: The study of health and wellness using Psychedelics.
  • Entheologist: A subject matter expert in one or many psychedelic disciplines.
  • Entheologic Association: A psychedelic support community.

1. Organization:
   1. Name
   2. Tagline
   3. Purpose
   4. Mission
   5. Logo
   6. Primary URL
   7. Committees/Roles & responsibilities/demands

• Purposed board/collective purpose- To raise awareness of safe and proper psychedelic use (and their contraindications) in order to promote health and wellness while maintaining a fair-trade and sustainable supply-chain.

***Assignment: Review SOBs, By-Laws & suggest changes if necessary.

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ZOOM INVITE FOR TONIGHT’S MEETING:

Rev. Hooman is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/76108028999?pwd=E3EbHGvKaKlooamoBYEWrW74DDOddi.1

Meeting ID: 761 0802 8999
Passcode: 211283
One tap mobile
+13462487799,,76108028999#,,,,*211283# US (Houston)
+17207072699,,76108028999#,,,,*211283# US (Denver)

Dial by your location
        +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
        +1 720 707 2699 US (Denver)
        +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
        +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
        +1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
        +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
Meeting ID: 761 0802 8999
Passcode: 211283
Find your local number: https://us04web.zoom.us/u/fiMrv5eF9

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NOTES:

-Most churches work on raising awareness of things that are “good” and we believe that the impact of psychedelics are one of those good things because they can result in more happiness. Our organization would like to raise awareness around psychedelic medicines and their manty benefits, including the ability to connect to source and to the universe. We are on a search to find joy and inspiration in order to care more and take care of our planet.

-Directors Mission: Mantain our supply chain in an safe and ethical manner with strong attention to GMP (Good Manufacturing Standards); dispute resolution

Roles Required

Board of Directors

Lead Minister – directs the overall mission of the org and is the primary advisor to the rest of the org; Spokesperson/ heart and soul and face of organization; chief advisor of entheology; voice and leader of community.

CEO

CFO

Graphic Designer/Web developer/Photographer

Writer/Contributor

Community Support Manager

Community Support Advisor (Members)

Collective Support Advisor (Growers)

Lab Support Advisor (Labs)

Manufacturing Safety Advisor (Mfgs)

Legal Counsel/Advisor

Ethical Advisor

Secretary

Domain Name Assets

Primary: entheologyold.wpengine.com (biz, .church, .cc, .club, .earth, .fun, .biz, .live, .me, .pro, .shop, .site, .today, .vip, .world)

Secondary: enthology.info (.church, .co, .net, .club, .life, .me, .online, .today, .tv, .us)

Short names: theep.info (.io, .me, .pro)

Alternates: theentheoproject.org (.info, .net, .co, .me, .tv)

entheism.info (.co,.me,.life,.blog)

entheoproj.org (.com)
theentheoproject.com
theentheopro.com