Yes ofcourse. But I really see it the opposite way. If you have smoked more than one time, the effect is only relaxing. Where as alcohol make people agressive and for example people who drink alcohol have fights and are agressive many times. Ofcourse it depends on people. Some people especially if they drink often are relaxed as weed guys but there are people who beat their wives when they are drunk or commit adultery. If I had to get rid of one, I would abolish alcohol and legalize weed.
As a 58 year old woman diagnosed with an incurable brain disease, Gods gift of cannabis has saved me in the most important way. It brought me to HASHEM. It is Gods medicine that beautifully and perfectly works WITH our body and not against it. BH I have no more insane migraines. I would rather go through childbirth 100 times than go through the intense pain I’ve been through. But I praise HASHEM because it brought me to Him.
Getting my medical card braught me back to Hashem after 10+ years of drunken agnosticism following the last time I stepped foot in temple, my bar mitzvah. I now spend my freetime relearning Hebrew and studying kaballah. While i still resent organized Religion and Dogma.. cannabis has allowed me to re-assess my worldview and subsequently notice, for the first time, true divinity all around us
Israel has the highest percentage of cannabis users and most of cannabis research in the world comes from Israel. American Jews in public schools are 2x more likely to be a cannabis user than other religions according to random surveys. Some High (ironic) Priests were stoners and many old, Chassidic rabbis were also stoners. Weed substances have been found on some destroyed ancient synagogues. Weed is a gift from God that helps us embrace our souls.
I had a near death experience during which I had many conversations which I can't remember for some reason. However, when I had to return to this existence, I was given one statement that I was allowed to remember: "There is a plan and it is going well." Whenever I question life's meaning, that phrase keeps popping up to remind me that I have a purpose even if I don't know what it is.
The lowering of inhibitions through drinking alcohol works on neurological pathways too, Rabbi. I’ve never heard of anyone having a spiritual experience while being drunk, though!
I had a similar thought myself. Back in medieval Bohemia, if you had an impacted tooth, which the removal of would be necessary for ones health and longevity, they didn't give you a painkiller. The blacksmith gave you a couple shots of the hard stuff and told you to pray for dear life before he yanks it. It numbs the body and mind. Alcohol has been used as an anesthetic for a long time. This would counter the reason babies are not given anesthesia. I think the Rabbi (bless him) had a good point inside that, though. Where do we draw a line on consumption? How do we know to what level any individual is influenced by any substance? He's given me plenty to think about. Thank you Rabbi
@@taabi.6818 , I agreed, but biblical you need to eat raw or cooked! Not burned to consume. Just incense is for burning. Medicine tea are different way to use plant, but you drink the tea, not smoking! So, smoking is not allowed for the believers in Almighty Creator! The others...is their problem how use the plant, eaten, drinking, smoking, sniffing...Be blessed!!
I was a severe addict for 10 years specifically heroin .. and if what you’re saying about alcohol it’s “OK “then that would make heroin “OK”.. either way , I’m two + yrs free off street drugs and needles ..Glory be to God ..I enjoy listening and hearing your views opinions…weed and alcohol and excessive meth use are by far the most mind altering substances one can take in my experience.. and that’s coming from 10+ yrs of iv H, meth, crack Cocaine abuse / addiction…substances affect everyone differently… sober is the way to go.
There's a difference between intoxicants and intoxication. There's also a difference between natural medication and processed drugs. And if you abuse medication, it's going to have a negative impact. That said glad it's no longer controlling your life
47:40 Anyone who is perplexed by the notion that alcohol is somehow so different from "the drugs" that we can construct a binary approach to substances, you're not alone. Rabbi Friedman, for all of his wit and charm and at times deep Torah, is woefully under educated and misleading in this construction. By starting with building his understanding of cannabis by comparing to alcohol of all drugs, just because alcohol is mentioned in sacred texts a bunch, belies his weak position on this subject. Alcohol is a drug, a dangerous drug, that is toxic and has no underlying system within the human body to effectively receive and process it. Cannabis, as other commenters have pointed out, interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the the human body and produces a variety of effects which can be processed in a much healthier holistic way. I would be interested in hearing precisely what sources he is pulling from to make these statements so definitively, because I keep shaking my head and bemoaning how silly he sounds even though in other arenas of thought he is definitely a sage. Jewish spiritual leaders of the 21st century need to invest more seriously in the relevant literature and ideally have their own relationship with cannabis before speaking with any authority about how we can responsibly and safely integrate this plant medicine into our societies, communities and personal lives. Also, to anyone watching, please don't think that Rabbi Friedman's take on Halakhah is the only way of approaching Jewish law and practice. We Jews are more expansive and savvy than to take an outdated legal pronouncement on cannabis and treat it like G-d's word. Avodat Hashem takes many forms, and having a mature and moderate relationship with cannabis will not degrade one's capacity to be a vessel for Divine Light and spreading it in the world. L'havdil, insights and experiences with cannabis and other psychedelics have been bringing many back to their own Jewish Journey with gusto after years of neglect and apathy. These can be useful tools, even gifts, if we can approach them with reverence and wisdom. Like he said in the beginning, there are many opinions on this subject. Luckily in Judaism we're not about prohibiting alteration of consciousness outright so the debate can continue in earnest :)
Genesis 1:29 “And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.”
@@galacticfederation4373 coincidence? I think not. Marijuana effects the Pineal gland which in return opens your mind spiritually. Thats why the Feds dont want you to have it. Your easier to control being dumbed down in society, hence boosters and injections all the time. Big Pharma is the devil, hence the snake logo.
So, 8 have found weed to have a opposing effect. Weed has made me more considerate of others and their feelings. Has made me more aware of my short comings, and my narcissistic tendencies. Has even brought me closer to god and my faith. But different people different walks. So to each their own.
@@michielvdvlies3315 Well, in my books your experience don't count for shit. If you are predicting for everyone based on your experience then you lack wisdom. I am not You. Its okay if you are not mentally strong enough to handle is and use it in a productive way but I find trouble in you slandering it and projecting your weakness unto other people. I wouldn't expect a child to see the good in eating vegetables.
Just about every stupid thing I've done or said in my life had to do with alcohol.... not weed. Weed makes me introspective and compassionate. I know people with no physical vices at all. Not all are better people bc of it... just saying.
Rabi, I have seen people who were inebriated do terrible things to harm themselves and others. I have never witnessed anyone on marijuana do anything deliberately harmful.
As someone who has worked with addicts and alcoholics for 15 years, this is a very special and meaningful talk to hear. Many considerations and thoughts in a discussion I have never heard a rabbi or frankly any conservative religious teachers talk about before while so much of our culture and so many people are being affected by this everyday. Thank you for talking about subjects that need more attention and openness. So many go through this alone
Gen. 9:20 - Noah gets drunk. Bad outcome. Gen. 14:18 - Melchizedek brings wine to bless Abraham. Good outcome. This would indicate that it isn't the alcohol but rather what it represents and how it's used. And yet it's evident that even if you are consciously aware of what it represents and how you are using it, it's potential to enslave and damage is legendary. Hardly a 'relaxing' pastime for many. If marijuana is used as an alternative, we aren't going backward. We're just changing seats. The question is: does alcohol and/or marijuana interfere with our relationship with Him?
Thank you, Rabbi Friedman, I see this lecture, not for the first time. Thank you for your efforts to speak the way we understand. Thank you to your team for the videos. It is amazing!
I agree that the current sickness of our society will take anything that God created and will pervert it - food, plants, alcohol, sex, own bodies, wealth, work. It is important to judge between the right and wrong use for each of these. It is not that these things are either evil or good, but our relationship with them can be either destructive or constructive. Let each one of us practice the righteous judgement with God's guidance.
Like all other addictive or habitual things in our lives you’ll know you have crossed the line when the progression in your life (your function, your fulfillment of your goals, your satisfaction with your life, and the health of your relationships to others) stagnates or worsens. When used for medicinal purposes those things will improve. When misused or abused those things begin to get damaged. The fruit of the tree will tell you, if you’re strong enough to take an honest assessment.
I think his message is that we as humans should try to reach our peace of mind with our own strength, without using simpler ways, such as drugs in this case. I absolutely agree with this idea, and I think it takes time to become aware of that. Don’t want to go deep in that but in my personal experience alcohol is a bad beast. Something that, if you fall in its trap, really shows the darkest sides of you. On the other hand, how many times I thought marijuana was a blessing! It completely sets me free from my ego, making me more aware of myself and connected to others. However, I recently started to realize that I can no longer escape from my unsolved issues. Not alcohol, not marijuana, nor other kind of external forces can “save” me from me. Only I can. And I know how difficult this process is, but I am confident about the power I have to do that and will try my best, without being too hard on myself if sometimes I fall. I think what the Rabbi is trying to say is more or less the same
Probably the best shiur I have heard in about 3-4 years. UA-cam algorithm served me this shiur after "Let me suggest a crazy idea shiur". To be honest, from the title I wouldn't have listened to it, but I was inflating a gymnastic ball, so I could not have stopped it then. Hasgaha peratit. So if you must make a big sin, better smoke some marijuana before. Then you wouldn't be doing the sin. This was my consolation halachic point while in university, especially with things I could not have changed: "If you want to guard your health, you must be familiar with your emotional reactions and be cautious with them. Examples of these are joy, anxiety, anger and fear, all of which have psychological impact. An intelligent person should be happy with the portion granted to him during his transitory life, not anxious about a world that is not his own." Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 32:22
@@oldyeller6518 He ( Qrazen69) He was referring to Hashem ( God of Heaven) His works are perfect. ☝🌏💙 David aways says it. I will bless your name all day long... With all that is within me.... I will sing a new song every day.... My hope abounds in you my King and God of my salvation 👑 ........ The teacher has a timely response and reproof that a good beginning. Maybe perfection is elusive because the King of the Universe reserved perfection for the day of completion. ( Blessed be His name)
Let me tell you a story, my grandmother’s generation were sick of religion and for good reasons,she was catholic. So my mother’s generation became secular and I was raised as such, but now I am a convert I practice Judaism and I teach her about Hashem and traditions.
i am 45 minutes into this and feel like i have read and listened to everything and everyone on these subjects. I feel that my mind has been more blown by this man than by any other. I believe Bernadette Roberts, the greatest Christian mystic you have never heard of, would have agreed with almost all of this so far. She considered herself a "closet Jew". Her writings have the potential to bring Christians, Jews, and Muslims together.
Weed helps me get in touch with my inner dialogue (which never ends); my worries, sorrows, feelings, hopes etc. I capture it all by documenting via writing or voice recordings. Weed made me a better thinker, speaker, and more aware or smarter. It’s perfectly under control. My use is minimal.
Humm, marijuana is a very hardy weed. G-d cursed the ground and weeds came forth, why would any one partake of something that is part of a curse, really the end of story.
Rabbi, I respectfully need to let you know alcohol alters a person's reality, period. Cannabis does not. People for the most part don't get falling down wasted on cannabis.
Alcohol destroys lives. There is no dwh driving while high. More people die from drunk driving than from people who smoke weed. Alcohol changes your reality and destroys the brain, liver, kidneys etc. It changes reality too. Ask any blackout drinker. They can't even remember what they were thinking muchless their emotional changes. Imho- alcohol is way worse.
It was found at an ancient Jewish temple site, used along with frankenscence I believe. They would burn it and it would fill the temple and that's how it went. Then there's the whole KanaBosm anointing oil deal. I think it's intended primarily for ancient ritual use.
Dear Rabbi Friedman. I attend one VIP session weekly. I use Medical Marijuana for my mental issues. In my opinion. Alcohol lowering my inhibitions and by numbing my feelings, sent me very close to a few years in prison. I got way altered. Marijuana, has never gotten me in trouble period (accept for being caught using it as a teen, just a lecture…) I have never heard a teaching of yours or your family I disagree with. I would encourage the Rabbi’s to continue to study this drug and debate it. I also listen to Rabbi Fine. Excellent teaching! Thanks for all everyone involved does for G-d. You and Teaching through UA-cam brought me to Hashem. Anyone interested in Judaism I encourage to listen to these Rabbi’s. Noahide was G-d’s choice for my birth.
Alternate states are the states through which G-d speaks. Dreams, visions, voices! Prophets used fasting, desert retreats, sensory deprivation in caves, dehydration to reach those states! Alternated States are the roods of religion and revelations. Archeologists have found cannabis at a historical temple sight in Israel. They dated back to times that the temple worship was still ongoing. Humanity used to live with herb medicine, they went hand in hand with revelations and communicating with the devine.
Hisgalus 22:15 Orthodox Jewish Bible 15 “Outside are the kelevim (dogs) and the mekhashfim (sorcerers, abusers of drugs; [T.N. the original language “pharmakoi” is where we derive the word for “drugs”; sorcerers often abused drugs to hallucinate or induce a passive state when they worked their magic and witchcraft; see Ga 5:20 and Rv 21:8] and the zonim (sexually immoral) and the rotzkhim (murderers) and the ovdei haelilim (idolaters) and everyone loving and practicing sheker. [DEVARIM 23:18]
My husband's alcohol abuse was destructive in every way. He most definitely would behave differently as opposed to being sober. Two different people. Alcohol has many statistics proving the dangers of alcohol.
My husband went his hole life never smoked Marijuana until he was diagnosed with 2 rare and aggressive cancers up in his left sinuse and on nerve to his brain.but he started smoking Marijuana 6 months ago and he only takes 1 puff at night so he can sleep ..before my husband cancer he drank alot of beer..he was an alcoholic and he can no longer drink because the radiation/chemo have taken a toll on his body...so he uses Marijuana as a medication he would be up all night tossing and turning because he dosnt feel ...
if your husband is still with us you should look into chlorine dioxide for his cancer..., if you want references Id love to forward them, just be careful where you read up on it as the pharmaceutical industry is doing all they can to stop anyone from using it.., thousands of truthful healing from chlorine dioxide and stops the need of chemo. anyways my heart goes out to anyone using chemo.
I'm always grateful for Ashem every time I've heard a speech from Rabbi Friedman. Especially this time, such a wisdom he share... As I'm willing to purify my mind for G.D, and on the other hand having a certain appetite for weed ( or...addiction to my me)... His worlds make a perfect sense..
Israel has the highest percentage of cannabis users and most of cannabis research in the world comes from Israel. American Jews in public schools are 2x more likely to be a cannabis user than other religions according to random surveys. Some High (ironic) Priests were stoners and many old, Chassidic rabbis were also stoners. Weed substances have been found on some destroyed ancient synagogues. Weed is a gift from God that helps us embrace our souls.
@@c.m.b.7567 The Orthodox interpretation is unfortunately beyond antiquated. Which is why only 10% of modern Jews are Orthodox/Heredi and only like another 20%, the "conservative" even attempt to occasionally follow Halakha. Most non Orthodox Jews I know smoke pot at least occasionally. The Rabbi is unfortunately misinformed like many in his generation, in large part due to all the propaganda by the alcohol and tobacco companies who instigated making marijuana illegal in the US at least, in the first place. But then, the Orthodox are often misinformed about many things. It's up to the rest of us, the rest of the Jewish community to look out for them, because they are navigating the 21st century using a 2500 year old guide that no longer is applicable to reality. Not wholly at least. There's plenty of wisdom and mythology in the text of course, but we can say that Halakha is today, nonsensse. I really wish Paul and the Christians hadn't made these arguments 2,000 years ago, as it makes it much more difficult to express these views in the Jewish world as they are often associated with Christianity. But in reality the modern Orthodox traditions are NOT the geneuine or authentic form of Judaism. They are just one of many, many different forms of practice undertaken by our ancestors of Judah, which is what Jew means, a descendant of a person of the Kingdom of Judah, not someone who practices the folkways of the Kingdom of Judah, called Judaism today. Which wasn't even a formal religion 2200 years ago. We know too much about the biblical past to take Tanach as the direct word of God. Plus the book is too fallible, too full of anachronism and contradiction. It's an imperfect text, not something that can can be applied as law, as it is within Orthodox communities. Anyway, the Orthodox won't and can't change. We have to accept that. The best we can do is steer them in the direction of like Chabad instead of the radical, fundamentalist Heredi groups destroying Israel.
I agree with you on his view of alcohol compared to other drugs, since alcohol is also a drug. However, I would encourage you to push past that and listen to what else he has to say. I’ve come to learn that no one person has the answers for everything, but we can still learn something from them. Some of his other points are spot on. I don’t agree with everything Mr Friedman says but he does hit the nail on the head for certain things.
What makes you feel good is half the equation of healing if you feel good you believe you will get better its much easier you put your mind snd body in the right frequency to heal
Rabbi, I'm only 5:06 in so far and I have to say, alcohol alters your mind in way of not caring. Ok. I get it. Marijuana makes you relax and notice things you wouldn't typically notice. In retrospect if you get drunk chances are you're not going to complete the mitzvah but being high on marijuana you would still know exactly what's going on around you and everyone around you would be happy because that's what it truly does to people makes them happy.
A drug is a synthesized or isolated and concentrated chemical. Calling cannabis a drug is drug war propaganda. Emotions are chemicals which VERY MUCH SO affect the brain. How many stupid decisions have you made for say, love? Lust? Drunken dispassion? A flawed premise leads to false conclusions.
@Got It streeeeeeetch. Proverbs 31 tell is wine is for those sad of heart and strong drink for those about to die. The bible advocates for bodily pollution merely for the sake of being sad. My point was that GOD doesn't tell you everything. You have to use the brain He gave you and not be ungrateful for His gifts.
I think that people need to realize that if you have what we call an “addictive personality” you will be susceptible to many forms of addiction (food, exercise, drugs, alcohol, obsessions, etc) Alcohol isn’t used medically for any reason, as far as I know, but cannabis has many medical uses. It’s a native plant & can be used in it’s natural state. I’d rather deal with a person on marijuana than someone drunk on alcohol any day.
I am certain cainabas is not addictive I can take it or leave it for over 50 yrs on and off Never has it made me violent or aggressive it makes me look at myself and I saw the ugliness of myself and the desire to change and cry out to G-D to be a better person No side effects!
I love your videos but I don’t agree with your point where you say that marijuana alters the mind but alcohol doesn’t. In my experience they both alter the mind. And also in my experience, alcohol is much more dangerous, addictive and stronger than marijuana. I don’t know anyone whose life has been ruined by marijuana but I know plenty of people who have had serious life changing problems with alcohol.
I find it is best, for me at least, to press forward with spiritual development and understanding without the influence of other substances. My mind is all that is needed. Wherever my heart goes, so goes my mind. I avoid negative thoughts and immediately start to think of something else as soon as something destructive enters my consciousness. Over time I have become much happier with life. Also, screw the news and politics. These are all things and contrivances of mankind in this physical world. Only myself and G_d have access to my soul and that seems to work just fine. I do however, like to sip whisky around a good campfire while we sing good songs, especially Old Time songs. Best wishes to everyone, see you on the other side of life.
All I know is when I smoke I feel closer to Yah. I feel his presence strongly. I can enter the prayerful mindset much easier and I feel NOTHING but love and compassion for my neighbor. I feel our Father's presence much more when I smoke. It is good for us. Just remember that the plant ISN'T your Elohim. It is a temporary door where I feel so much closer to my Creator.
My definition of health: a healthy individual is more concerned about the needs of others. They think and pray for the needs of others. In contrast many mentally ill people are often very concerned about themselves. Those who died and are beyond sin no longer pray for themselves and I think that is something to consider imitating.
Hi Rabbi. I would like to ask a couple of questions concerning what you mentioned around 05:00-05:20 concerning alcohol vs drugs in relation to the performance of Mitzvoth. First of all I would like to state that from my own personal experience alcohol influences my perception BIG time …(you’re reminding me some good ol Purim times🤣!) So some questions for now (I’m writing down while I’m listening): 1. Isn’t alcohol specifically stated as a hinderance to performing mitvoth? Especially concerning a Cohen who needs to serve (and from there we learn in relation to the service of Yisroel as a whole. And if I remember correct, wasn’t it Nadav and Aviu who were punished for entering DRUNK? 2. Concerning Mila: anesthesia doesn’t have to alter the mind, it can (don’t know what they use for mila..) numb solely certain parts of the body (you even say that yourself). Isn’t that contradicting with what you stated earlier, that drugs alters the perception, but alcohol just the mind?
I don't know what research says about the effect of cannabis on narcissism but it seems intuitive that it would be of great benefit. Cannabis encourages introspection and humility. What the hell do you think cannabis does? I mean, are you thinking of cocaine?
Interesting. Is this the same as never manipulate or forcefully open energetic centers and expand consciousness, but choose to purify the darkness and let God decide the pace and ways one will organically open to His glory and grace?
The Tel Arad "House of YHWH" in Israel, which I believe to possibly be the Tabernacle of David, had copious amounts of cannabis in the incense burners. I think this is worthy of note. Or at least worthy of conversation.
I think you are way off the mark, on this one, Rabbi, with all respect. Your set-up is flawed, and therefore, I don't think Jewish law is ready to make any decision on this subject, whatsoever. One would have to understand that cannibis is not a drug, and that alchohol does in fact change our perception of reality. Your statement, that alchohol essentially merely relaxes us, worries me. Is that why highway deaths and alchohol are so related? I love your videos and insight, but not this one.
They say alcohol doesn't alter your mind and that it just relaxes you and loosens your inhibitions. Your inhibitions are a large part of your mind. Removing those is altering the mind.
Dear Sir, there is theory going around now, of the word cannabis in Exodus 30:23-25, for the anointing oil. Plus, the incense also contained cannabis. this was put for by Sula Benet, in the 1930's. I would like to think that this is way more plausible than the calamus reed marsh plant. Cannabis is far less deadly than alcohol, which killed my father. He was only 47. He died of liver cancer. I have chosen to be a bookaholic. Thank you.
Israel has the highest percentage of cannabis users and most of cannabis research in the world comes from Israel. American Jews in public schools are 2x more likely to be a cannabis user than other religions according to random surveys. Some High (ironic) Priests were stoners and many old, Chassidic rabbis were also stoners. Weed substances have been found on some destroyed ancient synagogues. Weed is a gift from God that helps us embrace our souls.
Psalms 104:14 herbs were made for the service of man...Hebrews 6:7 land that drinking the rain that often falls upon it, bears herbs. Those who use them and make them useful recieves blessings from God....herbs have a pungent smell
Cannabis, if consumed orally does not damage the body like alcohol. Alcohol, even one drink, is harmful to many organs in the body including the brain. Its an interesting argument.
Society only went back to smoking Marijuana in the last 100+ years or so. It was consumed primarily as an edible inducing a strong psychedelic, hallucinogenic, and spiritual experience.
It is best to practice absolute sobriety if possible. However those who need what they need to function do what they do. By the grace of Hashem I practice absolute sobriety as a nazerite
@@DanielaAndBenny4ever true praying does not come from our 'monkey minds' where our weed buzz is limited to, but from the HEART. the buzz from weed cannot enter the HEART, so from my POV i see no prob with a prayer while somewhat buzzed, which most people denounce...
What is 100% true is that alcohol unleashes emotion while cannabis eliminates emotion. I can see the danger of eliminating emotion as it is the main source of power we have as beings. Controlling emotion is a form of mastery but repressing emotion is like cheating, selling your power short. I think cannabis is a way to help correct but long term it leads to complacency and puny emotional power. It also seems to inflate the ego, making it difficult if not impossible to humble yourself and connect to G-d. I love cannabis but this I've come to learn.
after smoking for years i still struggle, it does have very dangerous effects on the mental state of a person. we know it can cause short time memory loss, not to speak how it can influence the behaviour of your offspring. here in the Netherlands it had been tolerated since 1976 but most studies on "recreational" use of canabis shows it has dangerous effects.
@@michielvdvlies3315 It's hard to speak ill of cannabis it is the single greatest medicinal plant humans have come to know and use. However, everyone can agree that cannabis is a medicine. You shouldn't become dependent on a medicine. It's not that the medicine isn't helpful it's that depending on it all the time is unhelpful and sometimes damaging. Aside from that it is very difficult to deflate the ego in today's world as-is. Cannabis has a side effect of ego inflation so it's just not going to help you know G-d. Cannabis will help you know yourself - and that is so important - but it won't really help you know G-d.
2:35 minutes in and I can't count your opinion as informed and so neither is it credible. Alcohol unquestionably affects your mind, and to no less an extent. It sounds like you're basing this opinion on a conflation of marijuana with other harder drugs which, still, cause no more of a mental or "reality" shift than alcohol with the exception of psychedelics and pharmaceuticals designed to adjust mental processes like SSRIs.
Regardless of which view you take, can we all appreciate that Rabbi Friedman is even talking about this in such a sincere way?
Hell ya
Yessir
He said he enjoys his views and opinions!
Yes ofcourse. But I really see it the opposite way. If you have smoked more than one time, the effect is only relaxing. Where as alcohol make people agressive and for example people who drink alcohol have fights and are agressive many times. Ofcourse it depends on people. Some people especially if they drink often are relaxed as weed guys but there are people who beat their wives when they are drunk or commit adultery. If I had to get rid of one, I would abolish alcohol and legalize weed.
yeah
As a 58 year old woman diagnosed with an incurable brain disease, Gods gift of cannabis has saved me in the most important way. It brought me to HASHEM. It is Gods medicine that beautifully and perfectly works WITH our body and not against it. BH I have no more insane migraines. I would rather go through childbirth 100 times than go through the intense pain I’ve been through. But I praise HASHEM because it brought me to Him.
Getting my medical card braught me back to Hashem after 10+ years of drunken agnosticism following the last time I stepped foot in temple, my bar mitzvah. I now spend my freetime relearning Hebrew and studying kaballah. While i still resent organized Religion and Dogma.. cannabis has allowed me to re-assess my worldview and subsequently notice, for the first time, true divinity all around us
Israel has the highest percentage of cannabis users and most of cannabis research in the world comes from Israel. American Jews in public schools are 2x more likely to be a cannabis user than other religions according to random surveys. Some High (ironic) Priests were stoners and many old, Chassidic rabbis were also stoners. Weed substances have been found on some destroyed ancient synagogues. Weed is a gift from God that helps us embrace our souls.
@@c.m.b.7567 Israel also has the most abortions in the world. What is the point
👊🖖🙏❤🔥
Null may YHVH Keep You and Bless You 🙌
🔥🔥🔥🔥
I had a near death experience during which I had many conversations which I can't remember for some reason. However, when I had to return to this existence, I was given one statement that I was allowed to remember: "There is a plan and it is going well." Whenever I question life's meaning, that phrase keeps popping up to remind me that I have a purpose even if I don't know what it is.
I would pay hard earned money to smoke a blunt with the rabbis and listen to their wisdom.
Smoking with a rabbi Gona put it on me to do before I die list
Smoking & listening to this Rabbi right now, so grateful for this knowledge.
Ready to chill, no charge.
Ikr 😆
@@talktogabriel 😆 puff puff pass!
Being drunk is 💯 mind altering.
The lowering of inhibitions through drinking alcohol works on neurological pathways too, Rabbi. I’ve never heard of anyone having a spiritual experience while being drunk, though!
I had a similar thought myself. Back in medieval Bohemia, if you had an impacted tooth, which the removal of would be necessary for ones health and longevity, they didn't give you a painkiller. The blacksmith gave you a couple shots of the hard stuff and told you to pray for dear life before he yanks it. It numbs the body and mind. Alcohol has been used as an anesthetic for a long time. This would counter the reason babies are not given anesthesia.
I think the Rabbi (bless him) had a good point inside that, though. Where do we draw a line on consumption? How do we know to what level any individual is influenced by any substance? He's given me plenty to think about.
Thank you Rabbi
God gave us every Herb 🌿 bearing seeds. From Prophet Moshe.
Eaten then, don't smoke. Use like a condiments!
@@01Autentic and not every plant is solely eaten there are many to consume and use something.
@@taabi.6818 , I agreed, but biblical you need to eat raw or cooked! Not burned to consume. Just incense is for burning. Medicine tea are different way to use plant, but you drink the tea, not smoking! So, smoking is not allowed for the believers in Almighty Creator! The others...is their problem how use the plant, eaten, drinking, smoking, sniffing...Be blessed!!
@@01Autentic ok edibles exist. there are ways to eat weed and produce the same effect. the kosher way to consume weed is as an edible. there we go
@@taabi.6818 , Be blessed!!
شالوم بر شما مقدس والامرتبه و بزرگوار .
برکات ابدی خداوند بر شما و قوم شما .
ممکن است جهاد شما بیماری روانی باشد.
I was a severe addict for 10 years specifically heroin .. and if what you’re saying about alcohol it’s “OK “then that would make heroin “OK”.. either way , I’m two + yrs free off street drugs and needles ..Glory be to God ..I enjoy listening and hearing your views opinions…weed and alcohol and excessive meth use are by far the most mind altering substances one can take in my experience.. and that’s coming from 10+ yrs of iv H, meth, crack Cocaine abuse / addiction…substances affect everyone differently… sober is the way to go.
I don't trust him as a Rabbi, I don't even think he is a Rabbi. He may say some pretty nice things, but he is no Rabbi
There's a difference between intoxicants and intoxication. There's also a difference between natural medication and processed drugs. And if you abuse medication, it's going to have a negative impact.
That said glad it's no longer controlling your life
Good job 👏 stay healthy friend
@@tippytalkwhat gave you the feeling he shouldn't be trusted?
@@alexanderf.2290 Some of things he said, were just not true
47:40 Anyone who is perplexed by the notion that alcohol is somehow so different from "the drugs" that we can construct a binary approach to substances, you're not alone. Rabbi Friedman, for all of his wit and charm and at times deep Torah, is woefully under educated and misleading in this construction. By starting with building his understanding of cannabis by comparing to alcohol of all drugs, just because alcohol is mentioned in sacred texts a bunch, belies his weak position on this subject. Alcohol is a drug, a dangerous drug, that is toxic and has no underlying system within the human body to effectively receive and process it. Cannabis, as other commenters have pointed out, interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the the human body and produces a variety of effects which can be processed in a much healthier holistic way. I would be interested in hearing precisely what sources he is pulling from to make these statements so definitively, because I keep shaking my head and bemoaning how silly he sounds even though in other arenas of thought he is definitely a sage. Jewish spiritual leaders of the 21st century need to invest more seriously in the relevant literature and ideally have their own relationship with cannabis before speaking with any authority about how we can responsibly and safely integrate this plant medicine into our societies, communities and personal lives. Also, to anyone watching, please don't think that Rabbi Friedman's take on Halakhah is the only way of approaching Jewish law and practice. We Jews are more expansive and savvy than to take an outdated legal pronouncement on cannabis and treat it like G-d's word. Avodat Hashem takes many forms, and having a mature and moderate relationship with cannabis will not degrade one's capacity to be a vessel for Divine Light and spreading it in the world. L'havdil, insights and experiences with cannabis and other psychedelics have been bringing many back to their own Jewish Journey with gusto after years of neglect and apathy. These can be useful tools, even gifts, if we can approach them with reverence and wisdom. Like he said in the beginning, there are many opinions on this subject. Luckily in Judaism we're not about prohibiting alteration of consciousness outright so the debate can continue in earnest :)
סקירה מעניינת מאוד
.Well articulated comment, I concur fully agreed.
Well said and well informed. Thank you for this
Thanks for sharing your views on this and putting so much effort into it. I appreciate you Beni.
Thank you for respecting my people, I would rather lay down and die than turn to hate, argument, and misdeed to my folks.
i agree completely.
Thanks
Genesis 1:29
“And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.”
And the government made it elegal
@@galacticfederation4373 coincidence? I think not. Marijuana effects the Pineal gland which in return opens your mind spiritually. Thats why the Feds dont want you to have it. Your easier to control being dumbed down in society, hence boosters and injections all the time. Big Pharma is the devil, hence the snake logo.
.. and thou shalt smoke it.
I am addicted to Rabbi Manis teachings.He is a good spiritual teacher
So, 8 have found weed to have a opposing effect. Weed has made me more considerate of others and their feelings. Has made me more aware of my short comings, and my narcissistic tendencies. Has even brought me closer to god and my faith.
But different people different walks. So to each their own.
Same as I. Smoke and ponder. Love and light
i did smoke marihuana it causes a whole heap of problems. you should stop using it!!!
@@michielvdvlies3315 what credentials do you have that gives you the right to tell others what to do?????
@@obajuluwaoluwatomisin3883 if you want to throw your life away go ahead but im speaking out of experience.
@@michielvdvlies3315 Well, in my books your experience don't count for shit. If you are predicting for everyone based on your experience then you lack wisdom. I am not You. Its okay if you are not mentally strong enough to handle is and use it in a productive way but I find trouble in you slandering it and projecting your weakness unto other people. I wouldn't expect a child to see the good in eating vegetables.
Just about every stupid thing I've done or said in my life had to do with alcohol.... not weed. Weed makes me introspective and compassionate. I know people with no physical vices at all. Not all are better people bc of it... just saying.
I am in agreement.
@@marshalironsides8777 I'm 68... I don't want you to think I was born yesterday lol Thanks :o)
@@tonithenightowl1836 , r u in California?
@@PSALM-50 I'm an old lady from Pa. :o)
Whoop 🙌
Rabi, I have seen people who were inebriated do terrible things to harm themselves and others. I have never witnessed anyone on marijuana do anything deliberately harmful.
As someone who has worked with addicts and alcoholics for 15 years, this is a very special and meaningful talk to hear. Many considerations and thoughts in a discussion I have never heard a rabbi or frankly any conservative religious teachers talk about before while so much of our culture and so many people are being affected by this everyday. Thank you for talking about subjects that need more attention and openness. So many go through this alone
Gen. 9:20 - Noah gets drunk. Bad outcome. Gen. 14:18 - Melchizedek brings wine to bless Abraham. Good outcome. This would indicate that it isn't the alcohol but rather what it represents and how it's used. And yet it's evident that even if you are consciously aware of what it represents and how you are using it, it's potential to enslave and damage is legendary. Hardly a 'relaxing' pastime for many. If marijuana is used as an alternative, we aren't going backward. We're just changing seats. The question is: does alcohol and/or marijuana interfere with our relationship with Him?
Agree. This is The good question one must ask to himself
Also, Marijuana affects different people differently.
Alcohol frisst Hirn ...when it is being abused.
Thank you, Rabbi Friedman, I see this lecture, not for the first time. Thank you for your efforts to speak the way we understand. Thank you to your team for the videos. It is amazing!
I agree that the current sickness of our society will take anything that God created and will pervert it - food, plants, alcohol, sex, own bodies, wealth, work. It is important to judge between the right and wrong use for each of these. It is not that these things are either evil or good, but our relationship with them can be either destructive or constructive. Let each one of us practice the righteous judgement with God's guidance.
woot woot woot.....perfectly said..
Like all other addictive or habitual things in our lives you’ll know you have crossed the line when the progression in your life (your function, your fulfillment of your goals, your satisfaction with your life, and the health of your relationships to others) stagnates or worsens. When used for medicinal purposes those things will improve. When misused or abused those things begin to get damaged. The fruit of the tree will tell you, if you’re strong enough to take an honest assessment.
medical use can result in addiction,it did so for me!
I think his message is that we as humans should try to reach our peace of mind with our own strength, without using simpler ways, such as drugs in this case. I absolutely agree with this idea, and I think it takes time to become aware of that. Don’t want to go deep in that but in my personal experience alcohol is a bad beast. Something that, if you fall in its trap, really shows the darkest sides of you. On the other hand, how many times I thought marijuana was a blessing! It completely sets me free from my ego, making me more aware of myself and connected to others. However, I recently started to realize that I can no longer escape from my unsolved issues. Not alcohol, not marijuana, nor other kind of external forces can “save” me from me. Only I can. And I know how difficult this process is, but I am confident about the power I have to do that and will try my best, without being too hard on myself if sometimes I fall. I think what the Rabbi is trying to say is more or less the same
Cannabis and hemp is one of Gods gifts it heals in so many ways.
Thank you so much Rabbi Manis Friedman. Blessings from Joseph
Probably the best shiur I have heard in about 3-4 years. UA-cam algorithm served me this shiur after "Let me suggest a crazy idea shiur". To be honest, from the title I wouldn't have listened to it, but I was inflating a gymnastic ball, so I could not have stopped it then. Hasgaha peratit. So if you must make a big sin, better smoke some marijuana before. Then you wouldn't be doing the sin. This was my consolation halachic point while in university, especially with things I could not have changed: "If you want to guard your health, you must be familiar with your emotional reactions and be cautious with them. Examples of these are joy, anxiety, anger and fear, all of which have psychological impact. An intelligent person should be happy with the portion granted to him during his transitory life, not anxious about a world that is not his own." Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 32:22
All His works are perfect.
U his momma??? Good grief, relax
@@oldyeller6518 He ( Qrazen69)
He was referring to Hashem ( God of Heaven) His works are perfect. ☝🌏💙
David aways says it.
I will bless your name all day long...
With all that is within me....
I will sing a new song every day....
My hope abounds in you my King and God of my salvation 👑 ........
The teacher has a timely response and reproof that a good beginning.
Maybe perfection is elusive because the King of the Universe reserved perfection for the day of completion. ( Blessed be His name)
@@jonathanbarnes3061 😆😆😆😆. Ok then! I thought he was the biggest kiss ass I ever saw😆😆😆
A person who follows Torah with the right heart is a health person.
Let me tell you a story, my grandmother’s generation were sick of religion and for good reasons,she was catholic. So my mother’s generation became secular and I was raised as such, but now I am a convert I practice Judaism and I teach her about Hashem and traditions.
What about Marijuana?
Cool story Bro!
What a stupid comment
@@Mrpachuko13 ❤
What about Genesis 1:26 non lethal and no over dose risk for pain management ?
i am 45 minutes into this and feel like i have read and listened to everything and everyone on these subjects. I feel that my mind has been more blown by this man than by any other. I believe Bernadette Roberts, the greatest Christian mystic you have never heard of, would have agreed with almost all of this so far. She considered herself a "closet Jew". Her writings have the potential to bring Christians, Jews, and Muslims together.
Thank you for removing the amount of ads on your videos. Made it a pleasure again to watch your videos.
Weed helps me get in touch with my inner dialogue (which never ends); my worries, sorrows, feelings, hopes etc. I capture it all by documenting via writing or voice recordings. Weed made me a better thinker, speaker, and more aware or smarter. It’s perfectly under control. My use is minimal.
God made ALL seed bearing plants for us for food and medicine. End of discussion.
Use or abuse is the choice.. all in how we use the tool
Cannabis is referenced as the "fragrant cane" 'Keneh Bosem' קנה בשם in Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan's The Living Torah.
@@adamswierczynski I find this quite interesting. Where can I find this source from rabbi kaplan?
you became a rasta now?
Humm, marijuana is a very hardy weed. G-d cursed the ground and weeds came forth, why would any one partake of something that is part of a curse, really the end of story.
Know thy kingdoms, mineral, plant, animal, human,,, microcosm, macrocosm, Thank you for your Amazing Grace, Rayne X
Very high!! On the agenda ❤️😂
Love that you talk to us Rabbi Manni ❤️❤️❤️
Enjoyed listening to your perceptions and wisdom!
Rabbi, I respectfully need to let you know alcohol alters a person's reality, period. Cannabis does not. People for the most part don't get falling down wasted on cannabis.
I guess the rabbi doesn't know the true face of the alcohol nor thc.
Alcohol destroys lives. There is no dwh driving while high. More people die from drunk driving than from people who smoke weed. Alcohol changes your reality and destroys the brain, liver, kidneys etc. It changes reality too. Ask any blackout drinker. They can't even remember what they were thinking muchless their emotional changes. Imho- alcohol is way worse.
I couldn’t agree with you anymore !
That’s your opinion
Correct. That is my opinions.
Rabbi I just always wanted so much from you
It was found at an ancient Jewish temple site, used along with frankenscence I believe.
They would burn it and it would fill the temple and that's how it went.
Then there's the whole KanaBosm anointing oil deal.
I think it's intended primarily for ancient ritual use.
Dear Rabbi Friedman. I attend one VIP session weekly. I use Medical Marijuana for my mental issues. In my opinion. Alcohol lowering my inhibitions and by numbing my feelings, sent me very close to a few years in prison. I got way altered. Marijuana, has never gotten me in trouble period (accept for being caught using it as a teen, just a lecture…) I have never heard a teaching of yours or your family I disagree with. I would encourage the Rabbi’s to continue to study this drug and debate it. I also listen to Rabbi Fine. Excellent teaching! Thanks for all everyone involved does for G-d. You and Teaching through UA-cam brought me to Hashem. Anyone interested in Judaism I encourage to listen to these Rabbi’s. Noahide was G-d’s choice for my birth.
Great lecture Rabbi, very comforting .
I'm not Jewish, but listening to this is amazing.👍
Very informative your words always inspired me , thank you Rabbi
Thank you! I have been enjoying your teachings very much!
Alternate states are the states through which G-d speaks. Dreams, visions, voices! Prophets used fasting, desert retreats, sensory deprivation in caves, dehydration to reach those states! Alternated States are the roods of religion and revelations. Archeologists have found cannabis at a historical temple sight in Israel. They dated back to times that the temple worship was still ongoing. Humanity used to live with herb medicine, they went hand in hand with revelations and communicating with the devine.
a flower is a flower, I eat flowers I eat leaves I eat vegetables but who am I.
@@bmbdtorontoduciaume2643 you are that which is, but yes who is that which lives? We dunno man 🙂
It seems like do the mitzvah and also get “high”. Hello everybody!!!
@@timonp3412 absolutely incorrect. Dumbest comment on the internet today. Smh.
Hisgalus 22:15
Orthodox Jewish Bible
15 “Outside are the kelevim (dogs) and the mekhashfim (sorcerers, abusers of drugs; [T.N. the original language “pharmakoi” is where we derive the word for “drugs”; sorcerers often abused drugs to hallucinate or induce a passive state when they worked their magic and witchcraft; see Ga 5:20 and Rv 21:8] and the zonim (sexually immoral) and the rotzkhim (murderers) and the ovdei haelilim (idolaters) and everyone loving and practicing sheker. [DEVARIM 23:18]
Thank you Rabbi Friedman!!💪✡️🙏❤️🔥🎶
My husband's alcohol abuse was destructive in every way. He most definitely would behave differently as opposed to being sober. Two different people. Alcohol has many statistics proving the dangers of alcohol.
Cannabis should always be kept in mind as a gift from the MOST HIGH ... just like Sake or Red 🍷
I'm a descendent of John Quincy Adams! This is mind-blowing! It's looking like I have Jewish ancestry.
My husband went his hole life never smoked Marijuana until he was diagnosed with 2 rare and aggressive cancers up in his left sinuse and on nerve to his brain.but he started smoking Marijuana 6 months ago and he only takes 1 puff at night so he can sleep ..before my husband cancer he drank alot of beer..he was an alcoholic and he can no longer drink because the radiation/chemo have taken a toll on his body...so he uses Marijuana as a medication he would be up all night tossing and turning because he dosnt feel ...
if your husband is still with us you should look into chlorine dioxide for his cancer..., if you want references Id love to forward them, just be careful where you read up on it as the pharmaceutical industry is doing all they can to stop anyone from using it.., thousands of truthful healing from chlorine dioxide and stops the need of chemo. anyways my heart goes out to anyone using chemo.
May the Father bless your husband and you.
I'm always grateful for Ashem every time I've heard a speech from Rabbi Friedman. Especially this time, such a wisdom he share... As I'm willing to purify my mind for G.D, and on the other hand having a certain appetite for weed ( or...addiction to my me)... His worlds make a perfect sense..
Israel has the highest percentage of cannabis users and most of cannabis research in the world comes from Israel. American Jews in public schools are 2x more likely to be a cannabis user than other religions according to random surveys. Some High (ironic) Priests were stoners and many old, Chassidic rabbis were also stoners. Weed substances have been found on some destroyed ancient synagogues. Weed is a gift from God that helps us embrace our souls.
@@c.m.b.7567 The Orthodox interpretation is unfortunately beyond antiquated. Which is why only 10% of modern Jews are Orthodox/Heredi and only like another 20%, the "conservative" even attempt to occasionally follow Halakha.
Most non Orthodox Jews I know smoke pot at least occasionally.
The Rabbi is unfortunately misinformed like many in his generation, in large part due to all the propaganda by the alcohol and tobacco companies who instigated making marijuana illegal in the US at least, in the first place.
But then, the Orthodox are often misinformed about many things. It's up to the rest of us, the rest of the Jewish community to look out for them, because they are navigating the 21st century using a 2500 year old guide that no longer is applicable to reality. Not wholly at least. There's plenty of wisdom and mythology in the text of course, but we can say that Halakha is today, nonsensse.
I really wish Paul and the Christians hadn't made these arguments 2,000 years ago, as it makes it much more difficult to express these views in the Jewish world as they are often associated with Christianity. But in reality the modern Orthodox traditions are NOT the geneuine or authentic form of Judaism. They are just one of many, many different forms of practice undertaken by our ancestors of Judah, which is what Jew means, a descendant of a person of the Kingdom of Judah, not someone who practices the folkways of the Kingdom of Judah, called Judaism today. Which wasn't even a formal religion 2200 years ago.
We know too much about the biblical past to take Tanach as the direct word of God. Plus the book is too fallible, too full of anachronism and contradiction. It's an imperfect text, not something that can can be applied as law, as it is within Orthodox communities.
Anyway, the Orthodox won't and can't change. We have to accept that. The best we can do is steer them in the direction of like Chabad instead of the radical, fundamentalist Heredi groups destroying Israel.
Flawed from the beginning, alcohol is an addictive mind altering drug.
I think you missed the main point he was making. It does affect the brain but not the same way narcotics or THC does.
I agree with you on his view of alcohol compared to other drugs, since alcohol is also a drug. However, I would encourage you to push past that and listen to what else he has to say. I’ve come to learn that no one person has the answers for everything, but we can still learn something from them. Some of his other points are spot on. I don’t agree with everything Mr Friedman says but he does hit the nail on the head for certain things.
He is correct
Atleast be honest you want to get high God repsects honesty
@@stevensamuel6334 not sure what you mean by that Steven, are you speaking to me or just making a general statement?
What makes you feel good is half the equation of healing if you feel good you believe you will get better its much easier you put your mind snd body in the right frequency to heal
Rabbi, I'm only 5:06 in so far and I have to say, alcohol alters your mind in way of not caring. Ok. I get it. Marijuana makes you relax and notice things you wouldn't typically notice. In retrospect if you get drunk chances are you're not going to complete the mitzvah but being high on marijuana you would still know exactly what's going on around you and everyone around you would be happy because that's what it truly does to people makes them happy.
Thanks Mr. Freidman:) It's indeed eye opening. Peace be with you.
A drug is a synthesized or isolated and concentrated chemical. Calling cannabis a drug is drug war propaganda. Emotions are chemicals which VERY MUCH SO affect the brain. How many stupid decisions have you made for say, love? Lust? Drunken dispassion? A flawed premise leads to false conclusions.
@Got It you can't say cannabis is a drug without also saying alcohol and caffeine are drugs
@Got It Cause you said so!
How ignorant. Look in the dictionary. Pathetic.
@Got It Who said it's the way? Your strawman pathetic moving the goalpost is not any way.
@Got It It's a plant end.
GOD didn't tell us to breath either. Try some education. I hope you didn't breed.
@Got It streeeeeeetch. Proverbs 31 tell is wine is for those sad of heart and strong drink for those about to die. The bible advocates for bodily pollution merely for the sake of being sad. My point was that GOD doesn't tell you everything. You have to use the brain He gave you and not be ungrateful for His gifts.
You're very appreciated Rabbi Friedman... so true the cure is God! 🌹🙌🏾
I think that people need to realize that if you have what we call an “addictive personality” you will be susceptible to many forms of addiction (food, exercise, drugs, alcohol, obsessions, etc) Alcohol isn’t used medically for any reason, as far as I know, but cannabis has many medical uses. It’s a native plant & can be used in it’s natural state. I’d rather deal with a person on marijuana than someone drunk on alcohol any day.
About 40 minutes in I remembered he was supposed to be talking about cannabis.
Good one, dude.
Why did Hashem speak to Moshe Through a burning Shrub?
@@waterboy5532 yes, I think so
They also burnt incense in the Tent of Meeting.
Dude I love that bush
Ive heard that shrub has high amounts of dmt in its bark.
Cannabis is referenced as the "fragrant cane" 'Keneh Bosem' קנה בשם in Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan's The Living Torah.
I am a pot smoker and cannabis has helped my physical and mental health. Medicinal uses. 100%.
I am certain cainabas is not addictive
I can take it or leave it
for over 50 yrs on and off
Never has it made me violent or aggressive it makes me look at myself and I saw the ugliness of myself and the desire to change and cry out to G-D to be a better person
No side effects!
From 20:00 onwards it’s really good 👍🏼 thanks. (Just that vegetation ALSO fights for his existence)
I love your videos but I don’t agree with your point where you say that marijuana alters the mind but alcohol doesn’t. In my experience they both alter the mind. And also in my experience, alcohol is much more dangerous, addictive and stronger than marijuana. I don’t know anyone whose life has been ruined by marijuana but I know plenty of people who have had serious life changing problems with alcohol.
Indeed he's a real rabbi
I find it is best, for me at least, to press forward with spiritual development and understanding without the influence of other substances. My mind is all that is needed. Wherever my heart goes, so goes my mind. I avoid negative thoughts and immediately start to think of something else as soon as something destructive enters my consciousness. Over time I have become much happier with life. Also, screw the news and politics. These are all things and contrivances of mankind in this physical world. Only myself and G_d have access to my soul and that seems to work just fine.
I do however, like to sip whisky around a good campfire while we sing good songs, especially Old Time songs.
Best wishes to everyone, see you on the other side of life.
All I know is when I smoke I feel closer to Yah. I feel his presence strongly. I can enter the prayerful mindset much easier and I feel NOTHING but love and compassion for my neighbor. I feel our Father's presence much more when I smoke. It is good for us. Just remember that the plant ISN'T your Elohim. It is a temporary door where I feel so much closer to my Creator.
My definition of health: a healthy individual is more concerned about the needs of others. They think and pray for the needs of others. In contrast many mentally ill people are often very concerned about themselves. Those who died and are beyond sin no longer pray for themselves and I think that is something to consider imitating.
I really appreciate on your perspective on the subject. Thank you for making this video. God bless.
Hi Rabbi. I would like to ask a couple of questions concerning what you mentioned around 05:00-05:20 concerning alcohol vs drugs in relation to the performance of Mitzvoth.
First of all I would like to state that from my own personal experience alcohol influences my perception BIG time …(you’re reminding me some good ol Purim times🤣!)
So some questions for now (I’m writing down while I’m listening):
1. Isn’t alcohol specifically stated as a hinderance to performing mitvoth? Especially concerning a Cohen who needs to serve (and from there we learn in relation to the service of Yisroel as a whole. And if I remember correct, wasn’t it Nadav and Aviu who were punished for entering DRUNK?
2. Concerning Mila: anesthesia doesn’t have to alter the mind, it can (don’t know what they use for mila..) numb solely certain parts of the body (you even say that yourself). Isn’t that contradicting with what you stated earlier, that drugs alters the perception, but alcohol just the mind?
wow do we understand it starts with the mother?
I don't know what research says about the effect of cannabis on narcissism but it seems intuitive that it would be of great benefit. Cannabis encourages introspection and humility. What the hell do you think cannabis does? I mean, are you thinking of cocaine?
maybe he needs to blaze one with you. haha
@@jackflash128 yes👌
I have to say, I do not drink, have smoked, I'm the same person after smoking nothing changes
The Torah forbids creating stairs to the altar. I not only take this literally but figuratively as well.
Interesting. Is this the same as never manipulate or forcefully open energetic centers and expand consciousness, but choose to purify the darkness and let God decide the pace and ways one will organically open to His glory and grace?
@@MikaPilgrim Reb Nachman concurs with this. But how much is too fast will have to be decided between you and your rav.
I struggle with this addiction and it has taken me years to get clean
The Tel Arad "House of YHWH" in Israel, which I believe to possibly be the Tabernacle of David, had copious amounts of cannabis in the incense burners. I think this is worthy of note. Or at least worthy of conversation.
I am very interested to know much more about this experience.
I found this video while high
I think you are way off the mark, on this one, Rabbi, with all respect. Your set-up is flawed, and therefore, I don't think Jewish law is ready to make any decision on this subject, whatsoever. One would have to understand that cannibis is not a drug, and that alchohol does in fact change our perception of reality. Your statement, that alchohol essentially merely relaxes us, worries me. Is that why highway deaths and alchohol are so related? I love your videos and insight, but not this one.
Brother go ask ur local rabbi not a reform gay one but a real rabbi ask him about your questions don’t trust yourself never do
He is correct, we are supposed to put God first, not our own impulses.
if you truly walk the narrow path marijuana is used for the journey it opens your mind to the spiritual world while being in the physical
They say alcohol doesn't alter your mind and that it just relaxes you and loosens your inhibitions.
Your inhibitions are a large part of your mind. Removing those is altering the mind.
I don’t agree with this at all. Your mind is altered with both alcohol and weed.
I used to say that same shit lol. I retired from the military and started smoking weed at 35. You can really understand things on a deeper level
I am glad to hear that your brother is happily married!
Dear Sir, there is theory going around now, of the word cannabis in Exodus 30:23-25, for the anointing oil. Plus, the incense also contained cannabis. this was put for by Sula Benet, in the 1930's. I would like to think that this is way more plausible than the calamus reed marsh plant. Cannabis is far less deadly than alcohol, which killed my father. He was only 47. He died of liver cancer. I have chosen to be a bookaholic. Thank you.
Israel has the highest percentage of cannabis users and most of cannabis research in the world comes from Israel. American Jews in public schools are 2x more likely to be a cannabis user than other religions according to random surveys. Some High (ironic) Priests were stoners and many old, Chassidic rabbis were also stoners. Weed substances have been found on some destroyed ancient synagogues. Weed is a gift from God that helps us embrace our souls.
Psalms 104:14 herbs were made for the service of man...Hebrews 6:7 land that drinking the rain that often falls upon it, bears herbs. Those who use them and make them useful recieves blessings from God....herbs have a pungent smell
Extremely excellent hashgacha
i was told that someone used it to make anointing oil with cannabis oil.
Correct.
correct
When I don't smoke weed I see more of the spiritual world .the less addiction you have the closer you get to God
thank you very Much, Rabbi
I’m going to Stop smoking Starting today @ 420pm Pacific Time 🤣🤣
I’m who I’m had sent me here and I been here since 1975 when I was born I’m 46 years old now
Rabbi has never done cannabis.
Wasted 10 years of llovlng a narsasistic man who constantly smoked cannabis I'm happier now free of pain
Cannabis, if consumed orally does not damage the body like alcohol. Alcohol, even one drink, is harmful to many organs in the body including the brain. Its an interesting argument.
Society only went back to smoking Marijuana in the last 100+ years or so. It was consumed primarily as an edible inducing a strong psychedelic, hallucinogenic, and spiritual experience.
It is best to practice absolute sobriety if possible. However those who need what they need to function do what they do. By the grace of Hashem I practice absolute sobriety as a nazerite
I honestly pray 🙏 more while high on weed tho im altered altered to a high r being. Amen
funny you said that and a wonderful thing. our CREATOR knows our heart and weed is not in our heart.
@@jackflash128 u not making sense tho
@@DanielaAndBenny4ever true praying does not come from our 'monkey minds' where our weed buzz is limited to, but from the HEART. the buzz from weed cannot enter the HEART, so from my POV i see no prob with a prayer while somewhat buzzed, which most people denounce...
@@jackflash128 Still not making sense!
@@nickg5010 bottom line is i believe that it is OK to smoke weed and pray because a buzz will not interfere with true prayers. get it?
A rational selfish person knows it is their own best interest to serve God.
What is 100% true is that alcohol unleashes emotion while cannabis eliminates emotion. I can see the danger of eliminating emotion as it is the main source of power we have as beings. Controlling emotion is a form of mastery but repressing emotion is like cheating, selling your power short. I think cannabis is a way to help correct but long term it leads to complacency and puny emotional power. It also seems to inflate the ego, making it difficult if not impossible to humble yourself and connect to G-d. I love cannabis but this I've come to learn.
Wise words my friend.
after smoking for years i still struggle, it does have very dangerous effects on the mental state of a person. we know it can cause short time memory loss, not to speak how it can influence the behaviour of your offspring. here in the Netherlands it had been tolerated since 1976 but most studies on "recreational" use of canabis shows it has dangerous effects.
@@michielvdvlies3315 It's hard to speak ill of cannabis it is the single greatest medicinal plant humans have come to know and use. However, everyone can agree that cannabis is a medicine. You shouldn't become dependent on a medicine. It's not that the medicine isn't helpful it's that depending on it all the time is unhelpful and sometimes damaging. Aside from that it is very difficult to deflate the ego in today's world as-is. Cannabis has a side effect of ego inflation so it's just not going to help you know G-d. Cannabis will help you know yourself - and that is so important - but it won't really help you know G-d.
LOLOLOLOLOLOLOL
@@tjkatz Unless it comes from a guy in a white coat/ Then depend on it all your life.
I agree with how we change Torah wise. How to start...? I was put in a corner... and therefore I cannot speak. Yet under my skin it proceeded
2:35 minutes in and I can't count your opinion as informed and so neither is it credible. Alcohol unquestionably affects your mind, and to no less an extent. It sounds like you're basing this opinion on a conflation of marijuana with other harder drugs which, still, cause no more of a mental or "reality" shift than alcohol with the exception of psychedelics and pharmaceuticals designed to adjust mental processes like SSRIs.