The Curious Case of Papal Snuff and its Impact on Church History

Seemingly scandalous and overlooked in historical accounts, the topic of tobacco use among the papacy provides a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of historical ecclesiastical rule. This article delves into the curious case of popes who used snuff and repealed their predecessors' smoking bans, highlighting their impact on church history and beliefs.

The Decree of Pope Benedict XIII

In 1725, Pope Benedict XIII made historical headlines with a decree that changed the Church's stance towards tobacco. Specifically, he revoked the punishment for using tobacco in St. Peter's Basilica. This decree came as a surprise to many, especially considering the long-standing ban against tobacco use in ecclesiastical settings. While Pope Benedict still discouraged the use of tobacco, this marked a significant shift.

With this decree, the Pope allowed churchgoers to use snuff again. This move not only changed the social norms within the church, but it also allowed for a more relaxed environment. Interestingly, Pope Benedict himself would often retreat to a quiet corner to enjoy his snuff, much to the amusement of those who were familiar with his habits.

Implications of Revoking the Ban

The decision to repeal the predecessor's smoking ban had several implications. Foremost among them was the challenge it posed to the established moral and ethical standards of the time. Pope Benedict's actions sparked discussions around the holiness of church leaders and the observance of church rules.

Despite this change in policy, it's worth noting that Pope Benedict was not canonized. This decision likely stemmed from the fact that many saw his actions as a departure from the strict moral codes expected of church leaders. Moreover, it underscores the strict criteria for sainthood within the Catholic Church, which until today, has not recognized any smokers as saints.

Theological Perspectives on Smoking and Snuffing

In the early 20th century, prominent theologian Garrigou-Lagrange authored a commentary that sharply criticized smoking. He argued that smoking is not conducive to one's spiritual growth and that smokers cannot grow in holiness due to their vice. This perspective, while controversial, was widely influential within theological circles.

Despite this, Garrigou-Lagrange did not exclude smokers from achieving heaven; however, he recommended that smokers practice abstinence due to its detrimental effects on spiritual development. The pontiff took this to heart and instructed his brother Dominicans to cease their snuff use, thereby setting a precedent for followers to avoid the habit.

Prominent Snuff Users in Church History

Notably, Pope Benedict XIII was not the only pope to use snuff. Another prominent historical figure who used snuff was an antipope from 1394 to 1417, whose name is less familiar to the general public. This antipope maintained that he was the rightful pope to the end of his life, adding another layer of intrigue to the topic.

Despite the historical significance of these figures and their habits, it is important to note that the topic of papal snuff usage does not overshadow the broader context of ecclesiastical leadership and moral integrity. These cases offer a unique perspective on the evolution of religious practices and the complex interplay between tradition and change within the Catholic Church.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the use of snuff by popes such as Pope Benedict XIII and the implications of their actions on papal decrees and ecclesiastical practices highlight the intricate and often surprising history of the Catholic Church. These historical anecdotes provide valuable insights into the moral and social dynamics of past religious leadership, contributing to our understanding of historical ecclesiastical rule and the evolution of religious customs and practices.

Keywords: pope and snuff, tobacco in the church, papal decree on smoking