From a Buddhist perspective, is there a difference between a triple-shot no-foam latte, a fruity Merlot or some groovy ganja? Not really. They all artificially alter perception and thinking and as such are discouraged. A primary tenet of Buddhism is a clear look at reality uncluttered by false attachments to transitory things and from addictions to harmful behavior.
While the use of caffeine — green tea, a common staple of many Buddhists, contains caffeine — or the consumption of alcohol as a social lubricant is legal, and marijuana is not, it is not the legality of the substance that is determinative. Rather, it is the effect of the substance on one’s clarity and mindfulness that is a challenge for a Buddhist. Legal or not, any substance that alters one’s clarity of thinking is discouraged in Buddhism.
The Buddha wrote: “There are six results of drinking: decreasing wealth, increasing quarrels, danger of disease, gaining an evil reputation, indecent exposure and ruining intelligence.”
However, even the Buddha wouldn’t criticize or harshly condemn a social drinker or one who is addicted to a substance, legal or not. He would, and we should, work to minimize harm to ourselves and to assist those who are abusing their thinking with mind-altering chemicals.
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