Coffee & Religion: A Potent Mix

Prohibition...

It may seem surprising, but throughout history, coffee has often been seen as an instrument of "evil" - a political, religious and social threat. Despite the charges levied against it, however, coffee has ultimately triumphed. Today, the popularity and importance of coffee have never been greater.

1511
Citing the Koran, Emir Khair Bey, tries to ban this "euphoric" drink; in Constantinople, coffee merchants are shut down.

c. 1600
Pope Clement VIII is urged to ban coffee, the favorite drink of the Ottoman Turks, because it is seen as part of the "infidel" threat. One sip convinces the Pope otherwise, and he bestows a papal blessing on the beverage.

1675
Believing that men are forsaking their families for coffee houses, English women launch the famous Women's Petition Against Coffee.

1676
King Charles II responds by closing all cafés. Faced with a public outcry, however, he soon reverses his decision.

... and Penance

In Colombia, missionaries not only spread the word of God, they spread millions of coffee beans throughout the country. Whenever a missionary confessed his sins, the priest told him to repent by planting coffee beans. Coffee trees sprouted throughout Colombia at a miraculous rate!