“Ancient High: Archaeologists Unearth Shocking Evidence of Cannabis Rituals at 8th Century B.C. Biblical Shrine”
When we think of ancient rituals, the mind might wander to elaborate ceremonies steeped in meaning—beautiful, ornate altars adorned with offerings of incense, perhaps? Now, what if I told you the secret to making one such sacred experience ahem more aromatic involved mixing cannabis with—wait for it—animal dung? Yup, you read that right! The oldest known ritualistic cannabis burning has been unearthed at the Tel Arad shrine in Israel, revealing a fascinating blend designed to burn slowly at lower temperatures. Just imagine the scene: flasks of frankincense floating in the air but with a twist of earthy undertones courtesy of our four-legged friends! As researchers dive deep into this captivating discovery, one can’t help but ponder: Were the priestly officiants looking to find a divine connection—or just trying to mask an unpleasant aroma? Join me as we uncover the implications of this groundbreaking revelation, opening a new window into the ancient world and its intriguing practices. LEARN MORE.
The cannabis was mixed with animal dung to make it burn slowly at a lower temperature.
Israel MuseumThe shrine at Arad, as rebuilt in the Israel Museum in Jerusalem. The upper squares show the cannabis and frankincense residues.
The oldest known instance of ritualistic cannabis burning has been discovered on a limestone altar in Israel’s Tel Arad shrine. According to Science News, the cannabis was mixed with animal dung to burn at lower temperatures, while the frankincense found on another altar helped with the stench.
Excavations in the 1960s already revealed the ruins of two fortresses, ostracas (stones with inscriptions), and the shrine dedicated to Yahweh — but only modern analysis could help in identifying the residue atop each altar. These stood at the entrance of a cella, or small room containing cult objects.
