Topical Encyclopedia Wine holds a significant place in the biblical narrative, often associated with joy, celebration, and divine blessing. Its presence is woven throughout the Scriptures, symbolizing both physical and spiritual abundance.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, wine is frequently mentioned as a symbol of prosperity and divine favor. The Psalmist declares, "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" (Psalm 104:14-15). This passage highlights wine as a gift from God, intended to bring joy and gladness to the human heart. The production and consumption of wine were integral to the agricultural and social life of ancient Israel. The Promised Land itself is described as "a land of wheat and barley, of vines and fig trees and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey" (Deuteronomy 8:8), indicating the centrality of vineyards and wine in the economy and culture. New Testament Insights In the New Testament, wine continues to play a role in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. One of the most notable instances is the miracle at the wedding in Cana, where Jesus turns water into wine. This act is recorded in John 2:1-11 and is significant as His first public miracle, symbolizing the inauguration of His ministry and the joy of the new covenant. The master of the banquet remarks, "Everyone serves the fine wine first, and then the cheap wine after the guests are drunk. But you have saved the fine wine until now" (John 2:10), underscoring the excellence and abundance of what Jesus provides. Wine is also present at the Last Supper, where Jesus uses it as a symbol of His blood, shed for the forgiveness of sins. He instructs His disciples, "Drink from it, all of you. This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins" (Matthew 26:27-28). Here, wine becomes a profound symbol of the new covenant and the joy of salvation. Warnings and Moderation While wine is associated with joy and celebration, the Bible also provides warnings about its misuse. Proverbs cautions, "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging, and whoever is led astray by them is not wise" (Proverbs 20:1). The potential for excess and the resulting folly are acknowledged, urging believers to exercise self-control and wisdom. The Apostle Paul advises Timothy, "Stop drinking only water and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent ailments" (1 Timothy 5:23), suggesting a moderate and purposeful use of wine. However, Paul also warns against drunkenness, stating, "And do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit" (Ephesians 5:18). This contrast highlights the importance of spiritual sobriety and the pursuit of a life led by the Holy Spirit. Cultural and Religious Significance Wine's role in biblical times extended beyond mere consumption; it was integral to religious rituals and offerings. In the Old Testament, wine was part of the drink offerings presented to God (Exodus 29:40). Its inclusion in worship underscores its value and the joy it represents in the relationship between God and His people. In summary, wine in the Bible is a multifaceted symbol of joy, blessing, and divine provision. It is celebrated for its ability to make the heart merry, yet believers are cautioned to approach it with wisdom and moderation, recognizing its potential for misuse. Through its presence in both the Old and New Testaments, wine serves as a reminder of God's abundant provision and the joy found in His covenantal relationship with humanity. Torrey's Topical Textbook Esther 1:10On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, and Abagtha, Zethar, and Carcas, the seven chamberlains that served in the presence of Ahasuerus the king, Torrey's Topical Textbook Ecclesiastes 10:19 Library The Waterpots at Cana The Baptist's Inquiry and Jesus' Discourse Suggested Thereby. A Message from God for Thee The Best Strengthening Medicine Resources What does the Bible say about drinking alcohol / wine? Is it a sin for a Christian to drink alcohol / wine? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is consubstantiation? | GotQuestions.org Why did Jesus choose the wedding at Cana for His first miracle? | GotQuestions.org Wine: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Wine in Excess: Impairs the Health Wine in Excess: Impairs the Judgment and Memory Wine in Excess: Inflames the Passions Wine in Excess: Infuriates the Temper Wine in Excess: Leads to Remorse Wine in Excess: Leads to Sorrow and Contention Wine in Times of Scarcity, Was Mixed With Water Wine of the Abominations of the Apostasy Wine of the Blessing of the Gospel Wine of the Joys of Spiritual Matters Wine of the Wrath and Judgments of God Wine Press of the Judgments of God Wine Press: General Scriptures Concerning Wine Press: Treading The, of the Sufferings of Christ Wine Press: Trodden With Joy and Shouting Wine was Made of The Juice of the Grape Wine was Made of The Juice of the Pomegranate Wine was Used for Drink offerings in Idolatrous Worship Wine was Used for Drink offerings in the Worship of God Wine was Used: As a Beverage from the Earliest Age Wine was Used: At all Feasts and Entertainments Wine with Corn and Oil, Denoted all Temporal Blessings Wine: Abstinence from of Daniel Wine: Abstinence from of the Courtiers of Ahasuerus Wine: Abstinence from of Timothy Wine: Admonitions Against the Use of Wine: An Article of Extensive Commerce Wine: Cheap Wine (Like Vinegar) Given to Jesus at the Crucifixion Wine: Consequence of Putting (When New), Into Old Bottles Wine: Custom of Giving to Persons in Pain or Suffering, Mixed With Wine: Custom of Presenting to Travellers Wine: First Fruits of, to be offered to God Wine: First Mode of Making, Notice Wine: Forbidden to Nazarites During Their Separation Wine: Forbidden to Priests While on Duty Wine: Forbidden to the Priests While Engaged in the Tabernacle Wine: Generally Made by Treading the Grapes in a Press Wine: Given by Melchizedek to Abraham Wine: Given in Abundance to the Jews when Obedient Wine: Intoxication from the Use of Wine: Intoxication From: Ahasuerus Wine: Intoxication From: Amnon Wine: Intoxication From: Falsely Charged Against the Disciples Wine: Intoxication From: Joseph and his Brothers Wine: Intoxication From: Kings of Israel Wine: Intoxication From: Nabal Wine: Made by Jesus at the Marriage Feast in Cana Wine: Often Spiced to Increase Its Strength Wine: Places Celebrated For: Assyria Wine: Places Celebrated For: Canaan in General Wine: Places Celebrated For: Helbon Wine: Places Celebrated For: Lebanon Wine: Places Celebrated For: Moab Wine: Places Celebrated For: Possessions of Judah Wine: Recommended by Paul to Timothy Wine: Samson's Mother Forbidden to Drink Wine: Sometimes Mixed With Milk As a Beverage Wine: Sweet, Esteemed for Flavour and Strength Wine: Symbolical of the Blood of Jesus Wine: The Jews Frequently Deprived of, As a Punishment Wine: The Jews Frequently Drank, to Excess Wine: The Love of Christ to be Preferred To Wine: The Rechabites Never Drank Wine: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Wine: Water Miraculously Turned Into Related Terms |
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