Why Jewish Psychedelics ?

I've been asking myself why I am developing this course about Jewish psychedelics. Here are just a few ideas, but the real answer won't be known until the first ever cohort graduates on Dec 8!

This course creates a container for each student to explore their own questions around meaning making, truth revealing and healing. We deconstruct conceptual experiences of being human, and begin to grapple with deep mysteries of understanding what exactly psychedelics do to us, through us and within us. Are our psychedelic experiences real? How do we make sense of our experiences? How hard do we need to work so that life feels right?

More people than ever before are using psychedelics for a variety of reasons. Some of these people are Jewish, and on some occasions they may have idiosyncratic needs, questions, and challenges that require skillful support. As the field of psychedelic therapy expands, it is crucial for therapists and guides to have a deep understanding of the unique cultural and religious perspectives that Jewish individuals bring to their psychedelic experiences. By incorporating Jewish-informed perspectives on psychedelics into our practice, we can provide our Jewish clients with the tailored support they need

There is a huge amount of bilateral reciprocal influence between our individual identity and our collective identity. Who we are is only partially determined by who we are! It also has deep roots within our familial lineage, our cultural traditions and heritage as well as the societies we have lived in. We often reveal deepening levels of complexity and contradiction as we begin to unravel the overlapping mysteries of our individual and collective identities.

This is especially true in relation to institutionalized religion and religious traditions, particularly around the polarization between self and other, the individual and the collective, the past and the future, I and Thou. In relation to these complexities we will ask ourselves many questions to help navigate these unchartered waters. For example, who gets to define what is right and wrong? How do I know my life path is the right one for me? What relevance does the past and my social-spiritual-psychological inheritance have on the way I choose to live my life now? How much choice do I actually have?

Jewish people often have a strong sense of connection to their heritage and may seek to integrate their psychedelic experiences with their religious beliefs and practices. This can include exploring mystical experiences, seeking spiritual guidance, or deepening their understanding of Jewish texts and traditions. Alternatively, these psychedelic experiences could provoke ontological and epistemic ruptures to one's sense of reality, normality and identity. Often bringing up profoundly challenging questions about race, ethnicity, religion, God, belonging, and collective trauma.

By understanding and respecting the importance of these aspects of evolving Jewish identity, therapists and guides can create a safe and supportive environment for Jewish clients to explore their psychedelic experiences.

Additionally, Jewish individuals may have specific concerns or questions related to ethics and moral values when it comes to psychedelics. Judaism has a rich ethical tradition, and Jewish teachings provide guidance on issues such as the use of mind-altering substances, personal responsibility, and the pursuit of healing and personal growth.

By being knowledgeable about these perspectives, therapists and guides can engage in meaningful conversations with their Jewish clients, helping them navigate complex moral dilemmas and integrate their psychedelic experiences within a Jewish ethical framework.