Topical Bible: Arts of The: Wine-Maker

◄ Arts of The: Wine-Maker ►

Topical Encyclopedia

The art of wine-making holds a significant place in biblical history and culture, reflecting both the agricultural practices and the social customs of ancient times. Wine is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing joy, celebration, and sometimes judgment. The process of wine-making, from vineyard cultivation to fermentation, is an intricate art that was well understood by the people of biblical times.

Vineyard Cultivation

The cultivation of vineyards is a recurring theme in the Scriptures, often used metaphorically to describe God's relationship with His people. Isaiah 5:1-2 provides a vivid depiction: "I will sing for my beloved a song of his vineyard: My beloved had a vineyard on a very fertile hill. He dug it up and cleared the stones and planted the finest vines. He built a watchtower in the middle and dug out a winepress as well." This passage highlights the careful preparation and attention required in vineyard management, emphasizing the importance of selecting fertile land, removing obstacles, and choosing quality vines.

Harvesting and Pressing

The grape harvest was a time of great joy and communal activity. Grapes were typically harvested in late summer or early autumn. The process of pressing grapes to extract juice is mentioned in several biblical passages. In Judges 6:11 , Gideon is found "threshing wheat in a winepress to keep it from the Midianites," indicating the dual use of winepresses for both wine-making and other agricultural activities. The winepress, often a large stone basin, was used to crush the grapes, allowing the juice to flow into a collection vat.

Fermentation and Storage

Once the grape juice was collected, it underwent fermentation, a natural process where sugars are converted into alcohol by yeast. This transformation is not explicitly detailed in the Bible, but the end product, wine, is frequently mentioned. Wine was stored in skins or jars, as seen in Matthew 9:17 : "Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst; the wine will spill and the wineskins will be ruined. Instead, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved." This passage underscores the importance of proper storage to prevent spoilage and ensure the quality of the wine.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Wine held a prominent place in the social and religious life of the Israelites. It was a staple at feasts and celebrations, as seen in John 2:1-11 , where Jesus performs His first miracle by turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. Wine was also used in religious rituals and offerings, as described in Exodus 29:40 : "With the first lamb offer a tenth of an ephah of fine flour mixed with a quarter hin of oil from pressed olives, and a quarter hin of wine as a drink offering."

Warnings and Moderation

While wine is associated with joy and blessing, the Bible also warns against its misuse. Proverbs 20:1 cautions, "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise." The Scriptures advocate for moderation and self-control, recognizing the potential for wine to lead to excess and moral compromise.

In summary, the art of wine-making in biblical times was a complex and respected craft, deeply intertwined with the agricultural, social, and religious fabric of the ancient world. The Bible's references to wine and wine-making provide insight into the daily life and spiritual practices of its people, offering lessons on stewardship, celebration, and the importance of moderation.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Nehemiah 13:15
In those days saw I in Judah some treading wine presses on the sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses; as also wine, grapes, and figs, and all manner of burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the sabbath day: and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 63:3
I have trodden the wine press alone; and of the people there was none with me: for I will tread them in my anger, and trample them in my fury; and their blood shall be sprinkled on my garments, and I will stain all my raiment.
Torrey's Topical Textbook