Pharmakeia: The Rising Tide of Kush: Exploring the Impact of the Drug Trade in West Africa

 

In recent years, West Africa has found itself at the crossroads of a burgeoning drug trade, with one substance standing out in particular - Kush. This potent strain of cannabis has woven itself into the fabric of the region, impacting not only the social and economic landscape but also presenting complex challenges for governments and communities. In this blog post, we will delve into the growing influence of Kush in West Africa and its multifaceted impact on the region.

 

The Kush Epidemic

 

Kush, a high-potency strain of cannabis, has become increasingly prevalent in West Africa, gaining popularity among both recreational users and those involved in the illicit drug trade. Originating from the Hindu Kush Mountain range, this strain is known for its potent psychoactive effects, making it a sought-after commodity in the global drug market. The ease of cultivation and transportation has contributed to its rapid spread across West Africa.

 

Social Implications

 

The widespread availability and use of Kush have given rise to a range of social issues in West Africa. The drug's psychoactive properties can lead to addiction, affecting not only the physical health of users but also their mental well-being. Additionally, the illegal trade of Kush has been linked to increased criminal activities, creating challenges for law enforcement agencies in the region.

 

Economic Impact

 

While the drug trade often generates revenue, it comes at a significant cost to the legitimate economy. The cultivation and trafficking of Kush divert resources away from legal industries, contributing to the erosion of economic stability in affected regions. Furthermore, the involvement of criminal organizations in the drug trade can perpetuate corruption and hinder sustainable development efforts.

 

Challenges for Law Enforcement

 

Controlling the spread of Kush presents a formidable challenge for law enforcement agencies in West Africa. The porous borders and diverse landscapes of the region facilitate the movement of illicit goods, making it difficult to curb the drug trade. Additionally, the involvement of transnational criminal organizations further complicates efforts to dismantle these networks and disrupt the flow of Kush.

 

Health Concerns

 

The rise of Kush in West Africa also raises concerns about public health. The potency of the drug can lead to addiction, and the lack of regulatory oversight in its production raises the risk of contamination and adulteration. Addressing these health concerns requires a comprehensive approach that combines public awareness campaigns, treatment programs, and regulatory measures.

 

 

The influx of Kush into West Africa represents a complex challenge that requires a coordinated and multifaceted response. Addressing the social, economic, and health implications of the drug trade necessitates collaboration between governments, law enforcement agencies, and communities. By understanding the nuances of the Kush epidemic in West Africa, stakeholders can work towards implementing effective strategies to mitigate its impact and pave the way for a more secure and prosperous future for the region.

 

 

 

 

Aleister Crowley and the Enigmatic Occult Connection with Cannabis

 

By Shofarsound/End-Time Shofar 

Aleister Crowley, often called the "Great Beast" or "Wickedest Man in the World," was a complex and controversial figure in occultism and esotericism during the early 20th century. Known for his involvement in various mystical practices, including Thelema, Crowley's life and writings continue to captivate and mystify people today. Among the many aspects of his life, one intriguing element is his reported use of cannabis. In this blog post, we'll explore Crowley's relationship with cannabis and its role in his spiritual and mystical pursuits.

 

 

Before delving into the connection with cannabis, it's essential to understand who Aleister Crowley was. Born in 1875 in England, Crowley was a prolific writer, poet, occultist, and ceremonial magician. He founded the religious and philosophical movement known as Thelema, which centers on the idea that individuals should follow their true will to attain spiritual enlightenment and self-fulfillment. His writings, particularly "The Book of the Law," serve as the foundational texts for Thelema.

 

Cannabis and the Occult

 

Cannabis has a long history of use in various mystical and spiritual practices worldwide. From ancient Hindu rituals involving bhang to Rastafarian sacramental use of marijuana, the plant has been associated with altered states of consciousness and spiritual insight.

 

In Crowley's time, cannabis was not as widely discussed or understood as it is today. However, there are references in some of his writings that suggest he may have experimented with the substance. One notable example is his book "The Diary of a Drug Fiend," where he discusses the use of various drugs, including cannabis, in a quest for spiritual awakening.

Aleister Crowley was known for pursuing altered states of consciousness to connect with higher spiritual realms and explore the boundaries of human perception. While he employed various methods, such as meditation, ritual magic, and sexual practices, his experimentation with substances like cannabis was part of this quest.

 It's essential to note that Crowley's approach to mind-altering substances was not limited to recreational use. He saw them as tools for self-exploration and transcendence, believing that certain substances could facilitate spiritual experiences and insights. Cannabis, with its psychoactive properties, was one such substance that intrigued him.

 

Thelema and Cannabis

In Thelema, the use of mind-altering substances, including cannabis, is not explicitly mandated or prohibited. Instead, the emphasis is on the individual's ability to discern their path and follow their true will. Some Thelemites interpret this as a license to explore substances like cannabis as part of their spiritual practice, while others choose to abstain from such substances.

Crowley's 1907 Essay, The Psychology of Hashish-Marijuana Forbidden Drug in the Garden of Eden  

In his 1907 essay titled "The Psychology of Hashish," Aleister Crowley wrote about the mystical and psychological aspects of the use of hashish and cannabis. In one particularly intriguing passage, Crowley asserted that marijuana was prohibited or forbidden in the Garden of Eden. If not the Tree of Life, at least of that other Tree, double and sinister and deadly?”  In rhetorical response to Jehovah’s ancient taboos, the Beast wrote: “Nay! for I am of the Serpent’s party; Knowledge is good, be the price what it may.”

 

Drug Use and Magic in The Bible- Old Testament Septuagint

We heard of the  Greek word pharmakia, which means drugs and sorcery. However, another Greek word used in the Septuagint for drug-using magician is epano. Epano has a much broader meaning than pharmakos. Here are some scriptural references for epano being used to show drug-using magicians:

Exodus 7:11: pharmakos, epano, pharmakia

Exodus 7:22: epano, pharmakia

Exodus 8:7: epano, pharmakia

Exodus 8:18: epano, pharmakia

Exodus 8:19: epano

Daniel 1:20: epano

Daniel 2:10: epano

Daniel 2:27: epano

Daniel 4:7: epano

Daniel 4:9: epano

Daniel 5:11: epano

What Aleister Crowley taught and wrote was nothing new under the sun(Ecclesiastes 1:9). Crowley's satanic inspirations go back thousands of years, with the connection to drug use and sorcery/magic. The Bible predicts that in the End-Times, a massive Satanic revival and a revival of pharmakia(drug use/sorcery) would take place.