Lees, also known as dregs or sediment, refer to the solid particles that settle at the bottom of a container of wine during the fermentation process. In biblical times, the process of winemaking was a significant cultural and economic activity, and the imagery of wine and its production is frequently used throughout Scripture to convey spiritual truths and moral lessons.

Biblical References and Symbolism

The term "lees" is mentioned in several passages in the Bible, often symbolizing judgment, complacency, or the refining process. One notable reference is found in the book of Isaiah, where the prophet speaks of the judgment upon Moab: "Therefore my heart laments for Moab like a harp, my inmost being for Kir-hareseth. When Moab appears at her high place, she only wears herself out; when she goes to her sanctuary to pray, it is to no avail. This is the word the LORD has already spoken concerning Moab. But now the LORD says: 'Within three years, as a servant bound by contract would count them, Moab’s splendor and all her many people will be despised, and her survivors will be very few and feeble'" (Isaiah 16:11-14). Here, the imagery of wine left on its lees is used to describe the complacency and impending judgment of Moab.

In Jeremiah 48:11, the prophet uses the metaphor of wine on its lees to describe Moab's undisturbed and unrefined state: "Moab has been at ease from his youth, settled like wine on its dregs. He has not been poured from vessel to vessel, nor has he gone into exile. So his flavor has remained unchanged, and his aroma is undiminished" . This passage highlights the idea of stagnation and the lack of transformation, suggesting that Moab has not undergone the necessary trials or changes to refine its character.

Spiritual Lessons

The process of allowing wine to settle on its lees can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual complacency. Just as wine left on its lees can become thick and syrupy, so too can individuals or nations become stagnant and resistant to change when they are not subjected to trials or challenges. The Bible often uses this imagery to call believers to a life of vigilance and continual growth in their faith.

Furthermore, the refining process of wine, which involves pouring it from vessel to vessel to remove the lees, can be seen as a symbol of God's refining work in the lives of His people. Through trials and tribulations, believers are purified and strengthened in their faith, much like wine that is clarified and improved through careful handling.

Cultural and Historical Context

In ancient Israel, winemaking was a common practice, and the imagery of wine and its production would have been familiar to the original audience of the biblical texts. The process of fermentation and the settling of lees were well-understood, making them effective symbols for conveying spiritual truths.

The use of lees as a metaphor in Scripture underscores the importance of spiritual vigilance and the necessity of divine intervention in the refining process. It serves as a reminder that complacency can lead to spiritual stagnation, and that God's refining work is essential for growth and transformation in the life of a believer.Psalm 75:8
For in the hand of the LORD there is a cup, and the wine is red; it is full of mixture; and he pours out of the same: but the dregs thereof, all the wicked of the earth shall wring them out, and drink them.
Nave's Topical Index

Isaiah 25:6
And in this mountain shall the LORD of hosts make to all people a feast of fat things, a feast of wines on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wines on the lees well refined.
Nave's Topical Index

Jeremiah 48:11
Moab has been at ease from his youth, and he has settled on his lees, and has not been emptied from vessel to vessel, neither has he gone into captivity: therefore his taste remained in him, and his scent is not changed.
Nave's Topical Index

Zephaniah 1:12
And it shall come to pass at that time, that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are settled on their lees: that say in their heart, The LORD will not do good, neither will he do evil.
Nave's Topical Index

8105. shemer -- lees, dregs
... dregs, wines on the lees. From shamar; something preserved, ie The settlings (plural
only) of wine -- dregs, (wines on the) lees. see HEBREW shamar. ...
/hebrew/8105.htm - 6kLees: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus