Topical Bible: Wine: Generally Made by Treading the Grapes in a Press

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Wine holds a significant place in biblical history and culture, often symbolizing joy, celebration, and divine blessing. The process of making wine in biblical times was a labor-intensive task, typically involving the treading of grapes in a winepress. This method is frequently referenced in Scripture, illustrating both the practical and symbolic aspects of wine production.

Biblical Method of Wine Production

The production of wine in ancient Israel began with the harvesting of grapes, which were then placed in a winepress. The winepress was usually a large, shallow basin carved out of rock or constructed from stone. Workers, often barefoot, would tread the grapes, crushing them to release their juice. This juice would flow into a lower basin or vat, where it would begin the fermentation process.

The imagery of treading grapes is vividly depicted in the Bible. In Isaiah 63:2-3 , the prophet describes the act of treading the winepress as a metaphor for divine judgment: "Why are Your clothes red, and Your garments like one who treads the winepress? 'I have trodden the winepress alone, and from the nations no one was with Me. I trampled them in My anger and trod them down in My wrath; their blood spattered My garments, and I stained all My clothes.'"

Symbolism and Significance

Wine is often associated with joy and abundance in the Scriptures. Psalm 104:14-15 highlights the provision of God, stating, "He makes the grass grow for the livestock and provides crops for man to cultivate, bringing forth food from the earth: wine that gladdens the heart of man, oil that makes his face to shine, and bread that sustains his heart."

In the New Testament, wine takes on additional layers of meaning. At the wedding in Cana, Jesus performed His first miracle by turning water into wine, as recorded in John 2:1-11 . This act not only demonstrated His divine power but also underscored the theme of transformation and the inauguration of a new covenant.

Furthermore, wine is integral to the Last Supper, where Jesus used it as a symbol of His blood, shed for the forgiveness of sins. In Matthew 26:27-28 , Jesus instructs His disciples, "Then He took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, 'Drink from it, all of you. This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.'"

Cultural and Religious Context

In biblical times, wine was a staple of daily life and an essential part of religious rituals. It was used in offerings and celebrations, as seen in the feasts and festivals of Israel. The abundance of wine was often seen as a sign of God's blessing and favor, as described in Proverbs 3:9-10 : "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine."

However, the Bible also warns against the dangers of excessive wine consumption. Proverbs 20:1 cautions, "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise." This duality reflects the broader biblical perspective on wine as both a gift and a potential source of moral failure.

Conclusion

Wine, as depicted in the Bible, is a multifaceted symbol that encompasses themes of joy, blessing, judgment, and redemption. Its production through the treading of grapes in a press serves as a powerful metaphor for both divine provision and the transformative work of God in the lives of His people.

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 63:2,3
Why are you red in your apparel, and your garments like him that treads in the winefat?
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Chapter xlix
... refer merely to the future, but that is made impossible by ... phrase "in prophetic language
denotes not the future generally but the ... His eyes are dark from wine,. ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlix.htm

A Revival Sermon
... told that, "The mountains shall drop sweet wine;" by which ... It was not generally the
way for sailors to ... officious attention given, and when I made the enquiry ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 6 1860/a revival sermon.htm

The Poetical Books (Including Also Ecclesiastes and Canticles).
... Various attempts have been made to classify the psalms ... It is generally agreed that
it signifies a rest ... which denotes a Philistine city, and also a wine-press. ...
/.../barrows/companion to the bible/chapter xxi the poetical books.htm

The Rise of the Assyrian Empire
... This is what is generally called the ... wearing a turban on his head, and treading
underfoot a ... in the Synchronous History, in which mention is made of Bibeiashu ...
/.../chapter iithe rise of the.htm

The Desire of the Righteous Granted;
... subsequent to the text, so as other scriptures generally do, but ... to God, before he
is of God made good, as ... bramble bush to bring forth figs or grapes (Matthew 7 ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the desire of the righteous.htm

Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.
... the body will be one, that is, of one nature: this one body made up of ... introduce
when you speak of such matters cautiously, and like one treading warily, so as ...
/.../various/life and works of rufinus with jeromes apology against rufinus /