The Bible doesn’t specifically address the use of hallucinogenic mushrooms, but it does offer guidance on maintaining sobriety and avoiding anything that leads to a lack of self-control. Let’s explore biblical principles that can guide us in making wise choices about substances that alter our minds.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Seafood
What Does The Bible Say About Shrooms
Genesis 1:29
Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.”
This verse establishes that God has given humanity every plant and tree for food. However, it is important to note that the context of this verse refers to the original creation of a perfect world, prior to sin entering the world. Therefore, it is essential to exercise wisdom and discernment in the use of any plant substances, including mushrooms.
While there is no specific mention of mushrooms in the Bible, the overarching principle of responsible stewardship and caution can be applied to the consumption of any plant or substance for recreational or medicinal purposes.
Leviticus 11:14
These are the creatures that you may eat from all the animals that are on the land: any animal that has divided hoofs, a split hoof in its foot, and that chews cud.
Leviticus contains dietary laws set forth by God for the Israelites. This verse specifies the criteria for permissible land animals to be eaten. As mushrooms are neither animals nor mentioned in this specific context, they are not addressed within the parameters of these dietary laws.
However, it is worth remembering that this verse is part of the Old Testament ceremonial law, which was fulfilled in Christ. Christians are guided by the New Testament and the principles of love, self-control, and honoring God with our bodies.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
As believers, we are called to acknowledge that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. This verse highlights the responsibility we have to honor God and take care of our bodies, recognizing that we have been purchased by Christ’s sacrifice.
When considering the use of any substances, including mushrooms, it is crucial to assess if it aligns with the principles of glorifying God and treating our bodies as sacred vessels.
Romans 12:2
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.
This verse encourages believers not to conform to the patterns and behaviors of the world but to be transformed by renewing their minds. To discern whether the use of mushrooms is in line with God’s will, it is vital to seek transformation through the renewing of our minds.
Seeking guidance from God’s Word, prayer, and seeking wise counsel will help us understand His will and determine if the use of mushrooms aligns with His desires for our lives.
Galatians 5:22-23
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things, there is no law.
This passage presents the fruit of the Spirit, which comprises virtues to cultivate in our lives. Self-control, being one of these virtues, is essential when considering the use of any substances. It guides us to exercise moderation and make wise decisions.
While the Bible does not specifically address the use of mushrooms or hallucinogenic substances, the principle of self-control encourages us to evaluate the potential effects, risks, and influence on our spiritual walk.
1 Peter 5:8
Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.
This verse emphasizes the need for believers to be alert and of sober mind, as the devil seeks to deceive and destroy. It is crucial to approach any substance, including mushrooms, with a clear and focused mind to guard against spiritual vulnerability.
Being alert allows us to discern the enemy’s tactics and resist temptation, ensuring that we walk in the light and truth of Christ.
Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
This verse encourages believers to focus their thoughts on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy. When considering the use of mushrooms or any substance, it is essential to weigh these qualities against its effects and potential consequences.
By fixing our minds on what is good and honoring to God, we can make informed decisions that align with biblical principles.
Proverbs 20:1
Wine is a mocker, strong drink a brawler, and whoever is led astray by it is not wise.
This proverb warns against the dangers of alcohol and the negative outcomes that can result from its misuse. While mushrooms are distinct from alcohol, this verse serves as a broader cautionary principle regarding the consumption of substances that may lead to being led astray or unwise choices.
Considering the potential mind-altering effects of certain mushrooms, it is important to exercise wisdom and discernment in their use.
Ephesians 5:18
Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.
In this verse, believers are encouraged not to be under the influence of alcohol but to be filled with the Holy Spirit, allowing His guidance, wisdom, and control to influence their lives.
While mushrooms differ from alcohol, it is essential to evaluate their potential effects and ensure that our actions are controlled by the Holy Spirit rather than substances that may impair judgment or hinder spiritual growth.
Psalm 19:14
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.
This Psalm expresses a desire for our words and thoughts to be pleasing to God. When contemplating the use of mushrooms, it is important to consider whether our intentions, thoughts, and perceptions align with God’s standards.
By inviting the Holy Spirit to guide our hearts and minds, we can strive for spiritual integrity in all aspects of our lives.
Psalm 139:23-24
Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
This Psalm reflects a prayerful request for God to search and examine our hearts, thoughts, and intentions. It demonstrates a desire for purity and the willingness to surrender to God’s leading.
When exploring the use of substances such as mushrooms, it is appropriate to approach God with a similar plea, allowing Him to reveal any areas within us that may be contrary to His will.
Colossians 3:17
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
This verse presents an overarching principle for the actions and decisions of believers. Whatever we do, including the use of substances, we are called to do it in the name of Jesus, recognizing His lordship over our lives.
By continuously seeking to align our choices with Christ’s teachings and bringing glory to God, we can navigate decisions regarding mushrooms or any other substance wisely and responsibly.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
In this proverb, believers are urged to trust in the Lord with all their hearts, acknowledging His wisdom above their own. Instead of relying solely on personal understanding, it is essential to submit to God’s guidance and seek His will in all aspects of life, including the use of substances.
By surrendering our desires and seeking God’s wisdom, we can trust Him to lead us on the right path, enabling us to make informed decisions that align with His plans and purposes.
1 Timothy 4:4-5
For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.
These verses affirm that everything God has created is good and should not be rejected if received with thanksgiving. It emphasizes the importance of consecrating what we consume through the word of God and prayer.
When considering the use of mushrooms, it is crucial to approach the subject with an attitude of gratitude, seeking God’s guidance and consecrating our choices through prayer and the study of His Word.
1 Corinthians 10:31
So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
This verse reminds believers that everything they do, including their choices regarding consumption, should be done for the glory of God. When considering the use of mushrooms, it is vital to examine if it aligns with the principle of bringing glory to God.
By seeking His guidance, considering the potential effects, and evaluating its impact on our ability to honor and glorify God, we can make choices that reflect our desire to bring Him glory in all things.
Matthew 4:4
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”
Jesus spoke these words when tempted by the devil during His forty days of fasting. This verse emphasizes the importance of relying on God’s Word for sustenance and guidance rather than depending solely on physical nourishment.
When considering the use of substances, including mushrooms, it is vital to recognize that true nourishment comes from a relationship with God and His Word, rather than seeking fulfillment or spiritual experiences through external means.
Hebrews 13:5-6
Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have because God has said, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” So, we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
This passage encourages believers to find contentment in God’s presence and provision rather than pursuing material wealth or external experiences. It reminds us of God’s faithfulness and protective care over our lives.
When considering the use of mushrooms or any substance, it is important to guard against seeking fulfillment or spiritual experiences through external means, recognizing that true contentment comes from our relationship with God.
1 Thessalonians 5:21-22
But test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.
These verses encourage believers to test everything and hold fast to what is good while abstaining from all forms of evil. When considering the use of mushrooms, it is crucial to exercise discernment and evaluate whether it aligns with what is good and pleasing to God.
By being diligent in testing and aligning our choices with biblical principles, we can navigate decisions regarding mushrooms or any other substance in a way that honors God and reflects our commitment to righteousness.
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.
This verse encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, who freely gives it to those who ask. When faced with decisions such as the use of mushrooms, it is vital to seek God’s wisdom through prayer, seeking His guidance, and asking for discernment.
By trusting in God’s wisdom and seeking His insight, we can make informed choices that align with His will and bring glory to His name.
Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
These verses encourage believers to bring their concerns and requests to God through prayer, with an attitude of thanksgiving. It assures us that God’s peace, surpassing human understanding, will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
When considering decisions like the use of mushrooms, it is important to approach God in prayer, seeking His peace and guidance. By submitting our concerns and desires to Him, we can trust in His leading and find assurance in His peace.
2 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
This verse assures believers that God has given them a spirit of power, love, and sound mind, rather than a spirit of fear. It speaks to the confidence and clarity that can be found in Christ.
When considering the use of substances like mushrooms, it is important to approach the decision with a sound and clear mind, free from fear or anxiety. Relying on the power of the Holy Spirit and the love and wisdom of God, we can navigate decisions with confidence and discernment.
Isaiah 55:8-9
“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
This passage reminds believers that God’s thoughts and ways are higher than our own. He is infinitely wise and understanding, surpassing human comprehension. It emphasizes the need to trust in His guidance and wisdom, even when faced with complex decisions.
When considering the use of mushrooms or any substance, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of our understanding and trust in God’s infinite wisdom to guide us according to His perfect plans.
In conclusion, while the Bible does not explicitly address the topic of mushrooms, it provides overarching principles for believers to consider when making decisions regarding the use of substances. These principles encompass surrendering to God’s will, self-control, seeking wisdom, honoring and glorifying God, striving for purity of heart and mind, and relying on the Holy Spirit’s guidance. It is essential for Christians to prayerfully consider the potential effects, align their choices with biblical principles, and exercise discernment when making decisions concerning the use of mushrooms or any substance. Ultimately, believers should prioritize their relationship with God, focusing on His Word, and seeking His will above all else.