The term "Wine of the Passion" refers to the wine offered to Jesus Christ during His crucifixion, as recorded in the New Testament. This event is significant in Christian theology as it occurs during the Passion of Christ, the period of suffering leading up to His crucifixion.

Biblical References:

1. Matthew 27:34 : "There they offered Jesus wine to drink, mixed with gall; but after tasting it, He refused to drink it." This passage describes the moment when Jesus is offered wine mixed with gall, a bitter substance. The offering of this mixture was likely intended as a form of crude analgesic to dull the pain of crucifixion. However, Jesus refuses to drink it after tasting, which is interpreted by many as His choice to fully experience the suffering of the crucifixion without any numbing.

2. Mark 15:23 : "There they offered Him wine mixed with myrrh, but He did not take it." Similar to the account in Matthew, Mark describes the offering of wine mixed with myrrh. Myrrh, like gall, was used for its analgesic properties. Jesus' refusal is seen as a fulfillment of His mission to endure the full extent of human suffering.

3. John 19:29-30 : "A jar of sour wine was sitting there. So they soaked a sponge in the wine, put it on a stalk of hyssop, and lifted it to His mouth. When Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, 'It is finished.' And bowing His head, He yielded up His spirit." In John's account, Jesus does accept a drink of sour wine shortly before His death. This act is often interpreted as the fulfillment of Psalm 69:21, "They gave me poison for food, and for my thirst they gave me sour wine to drink."

Theological Significance:

The offering of wine during the crucifixion is rich with theological implications. The refusal of the wine mixed with gall or myrrh is seen as a testament to Jesus' willingness to fully embrace the suffering necessary for the redemption of humanity. By choosing to endure the pain without relief, Jesus exemplifies the ultimate sacrifice and obedience to the Father's will.

The acceptance of the sour wine in John's Gospel is often viewed as a symbolic act. It signifies the completion of His earthly mission and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy. The phrase "It is finished" marks the culmination of His redemptive work, signifying that the debt of sin has been paid in full.

Cultural and Historical Context:

In the ancient world, wine was a common beverage, often consumed with meals and used in various religious and cultural rituals. The mixture of wine with gall or myrrh was a known practice for its numbing effects, particularly in the context of executions. The Roman soldiers' offering of such a mixture to Jesus reflects both a customary practice and a moment of profound theological depth.

Symbolism in Christian Tradition:

In Christian tradition, the "Wine of the Passion" is sometimes seen as a symbol of the bitterness of sin and the suffering Christ endured for humanity's salvation. It serves as a reminder of the cost of redemption and the depth of Christ's love and sacrifice. The act of Jesus drinking the sour wine is also seen as a precursor to the Eucharist, where wine symbolizes His blood shed for the forgiveness of sins.

The "Wine of the Passion" thus holds a significant place in Christian thought, representing both the physical suffering of Christ and the spiritual victory achieved through His death and resurrection.