The Mushroom and the Cross

"The Mushroom and the Cross" is a book by author John Allegro that suggests early Christian symbols and stories, particularly references to bread and wine, relate to ancient fertility rituals involving mushrooms. Allegro theorized that early Christians covertly used mushroom symbolism, especially psilocybin mushrooms, to experience spiritual visions and communication with divine forces. The book proposes that some religious narratives and imagery were influenced by psychedelic experiences, aiming to explore potential hidden meanings behind Christian symbols. While provocative and controversial, it is not widely accepted by scholars and is considered part of alternative historical interpretations rather than mainstream history of Christianity.