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Soma was the legendary drink of the Gods of ancient India, which they created and drank to be immortal and all-knowing. The Gods' Soma was held in the cup of the Moon, also called Soma, which waxed and waned as they filled and emptied it. In the ancient texts, Soma also refers to a specific plant, the drink made from that plant, and the life blood of animals and sap of all plants. These texts speak of the creation of the Soma in human ceremonies as well. The Soma experience brought ecstasy, visions, and healing of all types of ailments, with the sense of sacred communion lasting long after the ritual. There has been much scholarly debate as to which specific plant Soma was made from, even though such ritual preparations exist in may cultures with very diverse plant ecosystems. We believe that Soma is a function, a sacred role that the intelligence of the plant kingdom can play in our lives, bringing us wisdom and enhancing our spiritual paths. There are countless plants which hold this place in their cultures, each helping in its unique context. In the ancient texts, the demons who steal the Soma and drink it receive no benefit from it. The gift of Soma is not just in the plants used or its preparation, but in the union of the ceremony- it is only Soma if it is shared.
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