Topical Encyclopedia Wine, a fermented beverage made primarily from grapes, holds a significant place in biblical history and culture. It is often mentioned in the Scriptures, both as a symbol of blessing and as a subject of caution. Sweet wine, in particular, is noted for its pleasing flavor and strength, making it a valued commodity in ancient times.Biblical References and Context Sweet wine, known for its rich taste and potency, is frequently highlighted in the Bible. In the Old Testament, wine is often associated with joy and celebration. For instance, in the book of Psalms, it is written, "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 underscores the role of wine as a divine gift that brings joy and sustenance. The Song of Solomon also celebrates the sweetness and desirability of wine, using it as a metaphor for love and affection. "Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth! For your love is more delightful than wine" (Song of Solomon 1:2). Here, wine's sweetness is paralleled with the deep, intoxicating nature of love. In the New Testament, wine continues to hold a place of importance. At the wedding in Cana, Jesus performed His first miracle by turning water into wine, which was noted for its superior quality. "When the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine, not knowing where it had come from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), he called the bridegroom aside and said, '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 2:9-10). This account highlights the esteem in which fine, sweet wine was held, as well as its role in social and religious gatherings. Symbolism and Significance Wine's sweetness and strength are often symbolic of abundance and divine favor. In the prophetic literature, wine is used to depict the blessings of the Messianic age. The prophet Amos speaks of a time when "the mountains will drip with sweet wine, and all the hills will flow with it" (Amos 9:13). This imagery conveys a future of prosperity and divine blessing. However, the Bible also warns of the potential dangers of wine, particularly when consumed in excess. Proverbs cautions, "Do not gaze at wine while it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly. In the end it bites like a snake and stings like a viper" (Proverbs 23:31-32). This warning serves as a reminder of the need for moderation and self-control. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Israel, wine was a staple of daily life and an integral part of religious rituals. The process of winemaking was well-developed, with vineyards being a common sight in the region. Sweet wine, often produced by allowing grapes to fully ripen or by adding sweeteners, was particularly prized for its flavor and strength. Wine was also used in sacrificial offerings and religious ceremonies, symbolizing joy and thanksgiving. The drink offering, or "libation," was a common practice, as seen in the instructions given for various offerings in the book of Numbers: "With the burnt offering or sacrifice of each lamb, prepare a quarter hin of wine as a drink offering" (Numbers 15:5). Conclusion Throughout the Bible, sweet wine is esteemed for its flavor and strength, serving as a symbol of joy, blessing, and divine favor. While it is celebrated for its positive attributes, the Scriptures also provide guidance on the responsible enjoyment of this potent beverage. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 49:26And I will feed them that oppress you with their own flesh; and they shall be drunken with their own blood, as with sweet wine: and all flesh shall know that I the LORD am your Savior and your Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob. Torrey's Topical Textbook Amos 9:13 Micah 6:15 Library The Nile and Egypt A Canticle of Love Israel's Hope Encouraged; 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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