A religious organization promoting cannabis as a sacrament and integrating neo-Zoroastrian beliefs.
Founded in 1991 by Danuel and Mary Quaintance in Graham County, Arizona, the Church of Cognizance (COC) represents a distinctive religious organization that combines elements of neo-Zoroastrianism with a unique interpretation of cannabis as a central sacrament. This small but controversial group has faced numerous challenges since its inception, particularly in relation to its use of marijuana for spiritual purposes.
Origins and Core Beliefs
The Church of Cognizance was established on the principle that cannabis, referred to as “Haoma” or “Keneh Bosom” by its members, is a sacred substance essential for achieving higher spiritual consciousness. The founders drew inspiration from various religious traditions, including Hinduism, Christianity, and Rastafarianism, to create a holistic spiritual philosophy centered around the use of marijuana.
Central to the COC’s doctrine is the belief that cannabis, when used properly, aids the mind, body, and soul. Members view Haoma as an ancient teacher of wisdom and compassion, offering a path to enlightenment and well-being. The church posits that this sacred plant is a provider of all necessities for a comfortable, healthy, and productive life, and acts as a protector of health and longevity.
Another key tenet of the Church of Cognizance is the promotion of good thoughts, words, and deeds – principles borrowed from Zoroastrianism. The church advocates that the proper religious use of cannabis fosters these virtues, which they believe are non-harmful to society. This emphasis on ethical living is central to the COC’s teachings and practices.
Organizational Structure and Membership
Unlike traditional religious institutions, the Church of Cognizance does not have a centralized place of worship. Instead, it is structured around “Family Oriented Monastic Orders” located in members’ homes, known as Individual Orthodox Member Monasteries (IOMMs). These IOMMs are dedicated to promoting family health, safety, welfare, culture, and tradition, in line with the church’s beliefs.
Members of the COC, referred to as “Cogniscenti,” practice their faith individually or in small groups, often in their homes, where they consume marijuana as part of their religious observances. This decentralized approach allows for a more personal and intimate spiritual practice, tailored to the individual needs and circumstances of each member.
To become a registered member of the Church of Cognizance, candidates must read and agree with a pamphlet titled “The Church Of Cognizance Introduced.” This document outlines the church’s beliefs, organizational structure, and includes a membership pledge. The process emphasizes the COC’s focus on leading an honorable, family-oriented life, underscoring the seriousness with which they approach their spiritual practices.
Legal Challenges and Controversies
The Church of Cognizance has faced significant legal challenges throughout its existence, primarily due to its use of cannabis as a religious sacrament. These challenges stem from conflicts with federal and state drug laws, which do not typically recognize religious exemptions for controlled substances.
In 2006, founders Dan and Mary Quaintance were arrested on federal charges of marijuana possession and distribution. The couple attempted to defend their actions under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), arguing that their use of cannabis was protected as a religious practice. However, the courts rejected this defense, and the Quaintances were ultimately convicted and sentenced to prison.
This legal battle highlighted the complex intersection of religious freedom and drug policy in the United States. The case raised important questions about the extent to which individuals can practice their faith when it involves controlled substances, and the limits of religious protection under the law.
Relation to Zoroastrianism and Other Traditions
While the Church of Cognizance identifies with neo-Zoroastrian beliefs, particularly in its veneration of Haoma, this association has been contested by some traditional Zoroastrian practitioners. In fact, during legal proceedings, some Zoroastrian priests testified against the use of marijuana as a sacrament, stating that it is not part of traditional Zoroastrian practice.
The COC’s unique blend of various religious philosophies sets it apart from more established faith traditions. By incorporating elements from different spiritual practices and centering them around the use of cannabis, the church created a distinctive belief system that resonated with a small but dedicated group of followers.
Continued Advocacy and Future Prospects
Despite legal setbacks and the effective cessation of the church as an organized entity following the Quaintances’ legal troubles, the ideas and principles of the Church of Cognizance continue to resonate with some individuals. The church maintains a website where it shares its teachings, religious texts, and information about the legal status of marijuana in various jurisdictions.
The COC’s persistence in advocating for its beliefs underscores the broader movement towards recognizing the spiritual and medicinal value of marijuana in various cultures around the world. As attitudes towards cannabis continue to evolve, with many jurisdictions moving towards legalization or decriminalization, the ideas put forth by the Church of Cognizance may find new relevance in discussions about religious freedom and drug policy.
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