Topical Encyclopedia
In the biblical narrative, wine is often depicted as a symbol of joy and celebration, yet it also serves as a cautionary element when consumed in excess. The account of Nabal, found in
1 Samuel 25, provides a poignant example of the dangers of intoxication and its consequences.
Nabal, a wealthy but surly and foolish man, is introduced in the context of his interactions with David, who would later become king of Israel. David and his men had been protecting Nabal's shepherds and flocks in the wilderness, and during the shearing season, David sent messengers to Nabal to request provisions. Nabal's response was harsh and dismissive, as he refused to acknowledge David's service or provide any hospitality.
The narrative takes a critical turn when Nabal's wife, Abigail, intervenes. Recognizing the impending danger due to her husband's insolence, she quickly prepares a generous offering and meets David to appease his anger. Abigail's wisdom and diplomacy avert disaster, and David blesses her for her discernment.
The account of Nabal's intoxication is pivotal. After Abigail returns home, she finds Nabal holding a feast "like that of a king," and he is "very drunk" (
1 Samuel 25:36). In his inebriated state, Nabal is oblivious to the peril he narrowly escaped. Abigail wisely waits until the next morning, when Nabal is sober, to inform him of the events that transpired. Upon hearing the news, Nabal's heart fails him, and he becomes like a stone. About ten days later, the Lord strikes Nabal, and he dies (
1 Samuel 25:37-38).
Nabal's account serves as a stark reminder of the perils associated with excessive drinking. His inability to exercise sound judgment while intoxicated nearly leads to his destruction and ultimately contributes to his demise. The biblical text implicitly warns against the folly of drunkenness, highlighting the importance of temperance and the potential consequences of neglecting this virtue.
Throughout Scripture, wine is acknowledged as a gift from God, meant to gladden the heart (
Psalm 104:15). However, the misuse of this gift, as exemplified by Nabal, underscores the moral and spiritual dangers of overindulgence. The narrative of Nabal's intoxication is a testament to the broader biblical theme that calls for wisdom, self-control, and the avoidance of excess.
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1 Samuel 25:36And Abigail came to Nabal; and, behold, he held a feast in his house, like the feast of a king; and Nabal's heart was merry within him, for he was very drunken: why she told him nothing, less or more, until the morning light.
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Library
Answer to Eunomius' Second Book .
Gregory of Nyssa: Dogmatic Treatises, Etc. <. ...
/.../gregory of nyssa dogmatic treatises etc/answer to eunomius second book.htm
Resources
Why is the real presence of Christ in the Lord's Supper such a controversial issue? | GotQuestions.orgIs intinction the correct way to do communion? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about underage drinking? | GotQuestions.orgWine: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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