The Joy of Pipe Smoking

Never underestimate the contemplative and spiritual practice of smoking a pipe.

By Philip K. Hardin, M.A., M. Div., LMFT, LPC

Years ago, Billy Graham appeared on the Johnny Carson show. Before Billy was welcomed on stage by Johnny, he and Ed McMahon were discussing what they would ask Billy. After much brain storming and bantering, Johnny had the perfect question.

With the question determined, Johnny introduced the Rev. Billy Graham. Billy came out, Johnny greeted him warmly and welcomed him to the stage. Johnny, seizing the moment, asked Billy, “Do you think there will be golf in heaven?” Billy never flinched. He began to describe heaven as the most joyful place, beauty unimagined, and filled with all that would be desirable … a place we can look forward to … a place NOT to be missed … and a place that God has especially prepared for those that are His! After that description, Billy leaned toward Johnny and said in conclusion.

“Yes, Johnny heaven will be filled with all that will bring joy to us … and I sure do enjoy playing golf!”

The audience erupted in applause and Johnny was left speechless.

I am certain that God is interested in my joy and I sure do enjoy smoking my pipe!

Pipe Smoking and Following God

Pipe smoking has long been associated with quiet reflection, conversation, and peace. For some men of faith, it even became a symbol of contemplation — a time to think, pray, and listen. This blog explores a few Godly men who were known to smoke pipes, and how the quiet ritual of smoking can become a tool for reflection and communion with God.

Godly Men Who Smoked and Walked with God

1. C.S. Lewis (1898–1963)

C.S. Lewis, the famous Christian apologist and author, enjoyed pipe-smoking as part of his reflective life. He once wrote: "I believe in Christianity like I believe in the sun — not because I see it, but because by it I see everything else." Lewis also wrote about the importance of silence: "We live, in fact, in a world starved for solitude, silence, and privacy: and therefore starved for meditation and true friendship."
For Lewis, silence and solitude were vital in knowing God.

2. J.R.R. Tolkien (1892–1973)

J.R.R. Tolkien, author of The Lord of the Rings and a devout Catholic, also enjoyed pipe-smoking. He wrote: "No half-heartedness and no worldly fear must turn us aside from following the light unflinchingly." Tolkien saw prayer and faith as quiet, persistent acts of devotion — echoing the slow, steady patience a pipe smoker learns over time.

3. Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758)

Jonathan Edwards, one of America’s great theologians, was noted as having smoked a pipe in moderation, using it as a time for quiet reflection. While there is no record of him connecting the act directly with prayer, his theology of meditation and affection toward God aligns beautifully with the discipline of stillness.

The Importance of Being Quiet to Hear God

Scripture reminds us: "Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10). Quiet is not merely the absence of noise but a posture of the soul — an openness to hear God’s whisper. C.S. Lewis noted that our world is “starved for solitude,” and it is often in silence that we hear the gentle voice of the Holy Spirit.

How Pipe Smoking Helps Me Listen for God

The act of packing, lighting, and tending a pipe demands patience and stillness. It slows me down. It becomes a rhythm that mirrors prayer — breathe in, breathe out, reflect. The curling smoke reminds me of prayers rising to heaven. Sitting with a pipe becomes, for me, a sacred pause. I am not rushing, scrolling, or speaking — I am listening. In those moments, I often sense God’s presence, his peace, or a quiet prompting in my heart.

A Balanced Perspective

While pipe smoking can symbolize reflection, it must be approached with wisdom. It carries health risks and should never become an idol or a stumbling block to others. The goal is not the pipe itself, but the spiritual posture it invites: stillness, gratitude, and attention to God.

Conclusion

Each of us needs quiet — a space to slow down and hear the still, small voice of God. For some, that quiet may come with a cup of coffee, a glass of a favorite beverage, a walk, or even the gentle ritual of smoking a pipe. Whatever form it takes, may we all learn to pause, to be still, and to listen. As we do, we’ll find God speaking — not in the noise, but in the whisper.

Ride ON!

Phil