The União do Vegetal (UDV), officially Centro Espírita Beneficente União do Vegetal, is a Christian spiritualist religion originating in Brazil. It was founded on July 22, 1961, by José Gabriel da Costa, known to his followers as Mestre Gabriel, in Porto Velho, Rondônia. The UDV is characterized by its ritualistic use of Hoasca, also known as Ayahuasca, a sacrament prepared from two Amazonian plants, Marapuama (Psychotria viridis) and Chacruna (Diplopterys cabrerana), that induces altered states of consciousness.
History and Origins
Mestre Gabriel, a rubber tapper in the Amazon rainforest, encountered Ayahuasca (which he later named Hoasca) in 1959. After experiencing its effects and developing a profound understanding of its spiritual potential, he began to share it with family and friends. In 1961, he formally established the União do Vegetal, translating to "Union of the Plant" or "Union of the Vegetal." The early community consisted primarily of rubber tappers and their families. Following Mestre Gabriel's passing in 1971, the leadership transitioned to a council of his most experienced disciples, and the UDV began to expand beyond its Amazonian roots, first throughout Brazil and then internationally.
Doctrine and Beliefs
The core doctrine of the União do Vegetal is centered on the pursuit of spiritual evolution, peace, fraternity, truth, and justice. Its teachings draw from a blend of Christian principles, spiritualist concepts, and ethical guidance. Key tenets include:
- Reincarnation: Belief in the cycle of rebirth as a path for spiritual learning and progression.
- Karma: The principle of cause and effect, where actions determine future experiences.
- Spiritual Evolution: The continuous development and refinement of the individual spirit.
- Moral Conduct: Emphasizing ethical behavior, self-discipline, and personal responsibility.
- The Hoasca Sacrament: Considered the "light" or "teacher," facilitating spiritual understanding and self-reflection.
The UDV sees itself as a path to spiritual enlightenment and a school for character development, aiming to guide its members toward a more conscious and harmonious way of life.
The Hoasca Sacrament
Hoasca is central to UDV practices. It is prepared through a specific traditional process, often referred to as "to make Vegetal," where members participate in the harvesting and cooking of the plants. The sacrament is consumed during ritualistic sessions held in temples, typically on specific days of the week. These sessions are led by Mestres (masters) and involve periods of silence, concentration, and the singing of Chamadas (songs) and Conselhos (teachings) that guide participants through their experience. The UDV emphasizes a disciplined and respectful approach to the use of Hoasca, viewing it as a tool for self-knowledge, spiritual healing, and connection with the divine, rather than a recreational substance.
Organization and Structure
The União do Vegetal is organized hierarchically, with a clear leadership structure.
- Mestre Geral Representante: The highest authority, elected every three years.
- Conselho de Administração Superior (CAS): The superior administrative council.
- Mestres: Experienced members who have undergone extensive training and are authorized to lead sessions and teach the doctrine.
- Conselheiros: Senior members who assist the Mestres.
- Disciplinadores: Members responsible for maintaining order and discipline during sessions.
- Socios: Full members who actively participate in the religion.
The UDV operates through various Núcleos (centers) and Distribuições (outposts) located globally.
Global Presence and Legal Recognition
From its origins in the Amazon, the UDV has expanded significantly. It has a strong presence throughout Brazil and has established centers in other countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Spain, Portugal, and Switzerland.
The UDV has successfully defended its right to use Hoasca as a religious sacrament in various legal systems. In Brazil, its use is protected under religious freedom provisions. In the United States, the UDV won a landmark Supreme Court case, Gonzales v. O Centro Espírita Beneficente União do Vegetal (2006), which affirmed its right to import and consume Hoasca under the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA). Similar legal battles and agreements have been pursued in other countries to ensure the legal protection of its religious practices.
Social and Environmental Engagement
Beyond its spiritual activities, the UDV also engages in social and environmental initiatives. It promotes sustainable practices, often involving the cultivation of the plants used for Hoasca in an ecologically responsible manner. Many centers participate in community service and charitable activities, aligning with the UDV's emphasis on fraternity and social responsibility.