Religious views on smoking: Difference between revisions

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'''Religious views on smoking''' involve the varying positions and opinions of [[religion|religious traditions]] and denominations concerning the use and consumption of [[tobacco smoking|tobacco]]. These views range from permissive stances, which consider smoking a personal choice, to strict prohibitions, where tobacco use is seen as morally wrong or harmful.
The topic of '''religious views on smoking''' encompasses the diverse perspectives held by various [[religion|religious]] traditions regarding the use of [[tobacco]] and other substances that are smoked. These views can range from outright prohibition to more permissive attitudes, often influenced by the health implications and the cultural context in which smoking occurs.


==Buddhism==
== Christianity ==
In [[Buddhism]], the Fifth Precept calls for followers to avoid intoxicating substances that lead to carelessness. While traditionally this has been interpreted to mean alcohol, many modern Buddhists extend this precept to include substances like tobacco. The Dalai Lama, a prominent Buddhist leader, has expressed opposition to smoking.
In [[Christianity]], views on smoking have evolved over time. Some [[Christian denominations]] consider smoking to be a sin due to its harmful effects on the body, which is regarded as a "temple of the Holy Spirit" according to the [[New Testament]]. Other denominations may not have an official stance but encourage moderation and consideration of health.


==Christianity==
== Islam ==
[[Christianity]] does not have a unified stance on smoking. However, several denominations have issued statements discouraging it. The [[Roman Catholic Church]] has not formally banned smoking but has spoken out against the habit due to health concerns. The [[Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints]] (LDS Church) explicitly prohibits the use of tobacco among its members, as part of the Word of Wisdom.
[[Islam]] generally discourages smoking, as it is seen as harmful to one's health. The [[Quran]] does not explicitly mention smoking, but many [[Islamic scholars]] interpret the principles of preserving health and avoiding harm as reasons to prohibit smoking. Some [[fatwa|fatwas]] have been issued declaring smoking as [[haram]] (forbidden).


==Hinduism==
== Judaism ==
[[Hinduism]] offers no explicit teachings on smoking, but the practice is generally discouraged due to the principle of ahimsa (non-violence). Smoking is seen as harmful not only to the smoker but also to those around them through second-hand smoke.
[[File:Inlayed_Pipe_Bowl_with_Two_Faces,_early_19th_century,50.67.104.jpg|thumb|left|An inlayed pipe bowl from the early 19th century, illustrating the cultural significance of smoking implements.]]
In [[Judaism]], the views on smoking have been shaped by considerations of health and [[halakha|Jewish law]]. Prominent rabbis, such as the [[Chofetz Chaim]], have addressed the issue, often emphasizing the importance of health and the prohibition against self-harm. Smoking is generally discouraged, and in some communities, it is considered a violation of Jewish law.


==Islam==
== Hinduism ==
[[Islam]] has a strong tradition of prohibiting substances that are harmful to the body. Many Islamic scholars and health organizations have declared smoking haram (forbidden), especially when the health risks became well-known. The rationale is that smoking is harmful to the smoker's health and constitutes a waste of money.
[[Hinduism]] does not have a unified stance on smoking, as it is a diverse religion with many different beliefs and practices. However, the principle of [[ahimsa]], or non-violence, may lead some Hindus to avoid smoking due to its harmful effects on the body.


==Judaism==
== Buddhism ==
In [[Judaism]], the health risks associated with smoking have led many rabbis and Jewish organizations to advise against it. The principle of pikuach nefesh, which prioritizes the preservation of human life, is often cited as a basis for discouraging smoking.
In [[Buddhism]], smoking is generally discouraged as it is seen as an attachment that can lead to suffering. The [[Five Precepts]] of Buddhism include abstaining from intoxicants, which some interpret to include tobacco.


==Sikhism==
== Indigenous Religions ==
[[Sikhism]] explicitly prohibits the consumption of tobacco. The Sikh code of conduct, the Sikh Rehat Maryada, lists tobacco as a forbidden substance. This prohibition is rooted in the belief that the body is a temple and should not be polluted.
[[File:Black_hawk_calumet.jpg|thumb|right|A calumet, or ceremonial pipe, used by Native American tribes.]]
Many [[indigenous religions]] have traditional practices involving smoking, such as the use of the [[calumet]] or "peace pipe" in Native American ceremonies. These practices are often deeply spiritual and are not necessarily related to the recreational use of tobacco.


==Conclusion==
== Related pages ==
Religious views on smoking are diverse, reflecting broader attitudes towards health, the body, and moral conduct. While some religions offer explicit guidance, others rely on general principles to inform their positions. As the health risks associated with smoking have become more widely recognized, many religious groups have taken a more critical stance on tobacco use.
* [[Smoking cessation]]
* [[Health effects of tobacco]]
* [[Religious views on alcohol]]


[[Category:Religion]]
[[Category:Religion and health]]
[[Category:Health]]
[[Category:Smoking]]
{{stub}}
==Religious views on smoking==
<gallery>
File:Chofetzchaim1.jpg|Religious views on smoking
File:Inlayed Pipe Bowl with Two Faces, early 19th century,50.67.104.jpg|Religious views on smoking
File:Black hawk calumet.jpg|Religious views on smoking
</gallery>

Latest revision as of 23:06, 21 February 2025

The topic of religious views on smoking encompasses the diverse perspectives held by various religious traditions regarding the use of tobacco and other substances that are smoked. These views can range from outright prohibition to more permissive attitudes, often influenced by the health implications and the cultural context in which smoking occurs.

Christianity[edit]

In Christianity, views on smoking have evolved over time. Some Christian denominations consider smoking to be a sin due to its harmful effects on the body, which is regarded as a "temple of the Holy Spirit" according to the New Testament. Other denominations may not have an official stance but encourage moderation and consideration of health.

Islam[edit]

Islam generally discourages smoking, as it is seen as harmful to one's health. The Quran does not explicitly mention smoking, but many Islamic scholars interpret the principles of preserving health and avoiding harm as reasons to prohibit smoking. Some fatwas have been issued declaring smoking as haram (forbidden).

Judaism[edit]

An inlayed pipe bowl from the early 19th century, illustrating the cultural significance of smoking implements.

In Judaism, the views on smoking have been shaped by considerations of health and Jewish law. Prominent rabbis, such as the Chofetz Chaim, have addressed the issue, often emphasizing the importance of health and the prohibition against self-harm. Smoking is generally discouraged, and in some communities, it is considered a violation of Jewish law.

Hinduism[edit]

Hinduism does not have a unified stance on smoking, as it is a diverse religion with many different beliefs and practices. However, the principle of ahimsa, or non-violence, may lead some Hindus to avoid smoking due to its harmful effects on the body.

Buddhism[edit]

In Buddhism, smoking is generally discouraged as it is seen as an attachment that can lead to suffering. The Five Precepts of Buddhism include abstaining from intoxicants, which some interpret to include tobacco.

Indigenous Religions[edit]

A calumet, or ceremonial pipe, used by Native American tribes.

Many indigenous religions have traditional practices involving smoking, such as the use of the calumet or "peace pipe" in Native American ceremonies. These practices are often deeply spiritual and are not necessarily related to the recreational use of tobacco.

Related pages[edit]