Are monks and nuns allowed to drink alcohol or smoke?

Answer 1

Ultimately it is dependent upon the vows that a monk or nun takes at ordination. However, the Buddha said that to achieve enlightenment you need to maintain a clear mind and therefore not take any substance which can affect the mind. Due to this monks and nuns take vows not to take any mind altering or intoxicating substances and as cigarettes and alcohol affect the mind, they do not smoke or drink. It should also be noted that monks and nuns take a vow of poverty and therefore do not have any money to buy cigarettes or alcohol. Modern Catholic religious, such as nuns and monks, are not encouraged to indulge in smoking or drinking although it is not considered sinful when taken in moderation. It would depend strictly on each congregation and perhaps even on the nun or monk as they might have taken an oath or vow in regard to these things.

Historically, it was the monks, in fact, who invented many types of beer as well as different Alcoholic Beverages from wines to champagne and at one point certain monastic congregations requested from Rome whether they might drink heavy beer during Lent as it allowed fasting from food yet provided nourishment for the day. In the Middle Ages, alcoholic beverages were common, especially ales, more so than drinking water and nearly all drank them without the association commonly afforded alcohol today. At present, during feast days or perhaps when being entertained by guests, religious may indulge in wine or other spirits so long as it is done socially and in moderation. Smoking is something that also did not have the social stigma that is now attached to it. Smoking was popular, especially with missionaries, as the smell of smoke lingered in their beards and helped repel insects. Modern priests are encouraged not to smoke as it costs money and more importantly, can be addictive, which is something a priest, who must strive to be master of his passions, is to avoid.