Islam and psychedelics
Salam to all.
I was born in France into a Muslim family — inevitably caught between two worlds, two ways of living and understanding life beyond religion. In my youth, my path led me to experience what are known as psychedelics (magic mushrooms), which profoundly shook me and brought me back to spirituality at a time when I was drifting away from it.
I am part of an association called "Arabs for Psychedelics," whose mission is to deconstruct the narrative around what is considered haram — when in reality these tools can heal (far better than many medications widely used by Muslims) and reconnect us to ourselves, to others, and to the spiritual.
I would love to hear your thoughts on this. Specifically on the distinction between "intoxicants" (like alcohol, which renders one unconscious and out of control) and these substances — which, used correctly, can on the contrary produce profound healing, deep realisations, and make us better human beings.
https://themicrodose.substack.com/p/a-priest-a-rabbi-and-a-muslim-leader
Here is a podcast for those who speak English — about a study in which a rabbi, an imam, and a priest took part in the experience.