How To Start Your Own Psychedelic Religion

Ever since the dawn of civilisation (and probably before it), the human species has had an overwhelming desire to worship something greater than itself – be it Gods, spirits or nature, humans have pretty much always practiced religion in one form or another.

When it comes to psychedelics, religion, and philosophy, hallucinogens have always had the power to bring us closer to our spirituality. They are an integral part of many religions – especially those shamanic in nature. However, the mind opening nature of hallucinogens does not always take us down the paths of current religion, and many a psychonaut has found their very own spiritual peace through their use. A great example of this in action can be seen through one of the greatest psychedelic philosophers of our time: Tim Leary. He believed that each and every one of us is our own God, and that psychedelics brought us closer to the universe, and the spirituality within it. Leary believed in the power of hallucinogens so much, that he started up his own religious organisation to better explore the link between LSD and spirituality.

With this in mind, we thought we would put together a quick guide, so that anyone of a similar mind can follow in his footsteps, and start their own hallucinogen based religion.

Disclaimer: Please take this with a bit of tongue-in-cheek! Side effects can include cult status, martyrdom, ostracisation from society, madness, and getting weird look when you walk down the street.

THE STEPS TO CREATING YOUR OWN RELIGION

1. Choose A Focus

All religions start with a central core focus. For example, Buddhism was initially started as a protestant movement within Hinduism and then expanded. In a similar fashion, you must establish what the core movement and message behind you religion is going to be, where it draws its influence from, and how you will likely shape its philosophies.

2. Construct A Central Belief System

This does not have to be complicated or particularly profound. For example, in a hallucinogen focused religion, the central belief system could be that by using hallucinogens you bring yourself closer to the true nature of the universe. You do not need to create a doctrine, or define how your believers live their lives if you do not want to.

3. Create Some Rituals

Pretty much every religion out there has rituals in one form or another. It could be simply defining ways in which hallucinogens should be taken, whether there are group rituals, and putting together any meaningful ceremony involved in them.

4. Think About Design

Although it is the core philosophies, beliefs and practices of your religion that are going to be really important, don’t forget to think about the aesthetics. Having a well-designed symbol, ceremonial clothing, artwork, and other recognisable aspects can add a lot to the feel of belonging for your followers.

5. Define Your Role

Are you the ultimate head of the religion, a simple guiding philosopher, or an equal worshiper?

6. Spread The Good Word

Now you have the framework of your religion in place, put it into action. Hopefully you should have a few interested followers to begin with, and with them you can spread your ideals and views however you see fit. This could be on the internet, on TV, in the local paper, flyers, open forums, anything! What is important is that you gain peoples interest, and make points that many can believe in. It is also important to explain why not following your belief is incorrect. This doesn’t necessarily mean contradicting other people’s views, or trying to impose your views on others, but instead making them consider and question your religion.

7. Become Officially Recognised

At some point, when you have enough followers, and have developed your infrastructure further, you will be able to become an officially recognised religion! This however, will largely depend on your country of residence. You will need to meet certain criteria in order to become official, so check out the law where you live, and work towards it.

There you go! Although this is quite a brief explanation of what you need to do, it should give you the framework to work with and expand upon. If you feel strongly about the spiritual nature hallucinogens can create, then you now have the starting block to spreading the word.

Luke Sumpter

With a BSc (Hons) degree in Clinical Health Sciences and a passion for growing plants, Luke Sumpter has worked as a professional journalist and writer at the intersection of cannabis and science for the past 7 years.

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