Wine in Biblical Times: Types, Properties, and Significance

The Bible frequently mentions wine, which was a significant component in both daily life and religious rituals. Understanding the types of wine and their properties in biblical times provides deeper insight into the cultural and spiritual significance of this beverage.

Types of Wine

In the Bible, wine is broadly categorized into several types:

Fermented Grape Wine

The primary type of wine was made from fermented grapes. Unlike modern wines, this wine was often unfiltered and could vary in quality and taste due to the fermentation process. As time passed, the quality and variety of grapes used would influence the flavor and bouquet.

Mixed Wines

It was common to mix wine with water, spices, or herbs. This practice aimed to enhance the flavor or reduce the alcohol content. Although no specific details are provided, such mixtures might have allowed for customization based on the occasion or personal preference.

Sweet Wine

References in the Bible indicate that sweet or dessert wines, possibly made from dried grapes, were enjoyed. These sweeter varieties often symbolized celebration and joy, fitting well within the cultural context of feasts and festivals.

Strong Drink

The term strong drink refers to potent alcoholic beverages that can lead to intoxication. These were often used for medicinal or social purposes but not within religious ceremonies or daily consumption, which the Bible generally frowns upon.

Special Properties of Wine

Cultural Significance

Wine was central to many social and religious rituals. One notable example is the Passover Seder, where wine is a crucial element. Wine was also used during other feasts and celebrations, symbolizing joy, abundance, and spiritual symbolism.

Symbols and Meanings

In addition to its practical uses, wine held significant symbolic meanings. It represented joy, celebration, and abundance, which were integral aspects of biblical culture. In Christian tradition, wine is a symbol of the blood of Christ during Communion, reinforcing its spiritual significance.

Medicinal Uses

Wine was occasionally used for medicinal purposes, believed to have health benefits when consumed in moderation. Historical records suggest that wine was thought to aid digestion and serve as an antiseptic, supporting its role in maintaining physical health.

Preservation

The fermentation process helped preserve the drink for longer periods. This made wine a staple in the diet of ancient peoples, ensuring a consistent supply of the beverage during times when refrigeration was not available.

Alcohol Content

While the exact alcohol content of biblical wine is not well-documented, it is generally believed to have been lower than many modern wines, especially when diluted with water. This lower concentration made it more palatable for everyday consumption.

Jesus and Wine

When discussing the types of wine in the Bible, it is essential to note that Jesus referenced both new and old wine. In Matthew 9:17, He stated, "‘New wine must be put into new wineskins. Otherwise, the new wine will burst the wineskins and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. But new wine must be put into fresh wineskins.’"
Here, 'new wine' refers to unfermented grape juice, which is still called wine even in its purest form.
Even at the wedding in Cana, the wine was not the type that would make people drunk; it was a beverage for meals.
Jesus did not promote abuse or excessive consumption, as Scriptures clearly condemn being drunk with toxicating drinks.

Noah and Fermentation

Noah consumed wine, as described in Genesis 9:18–22. However, his consumption of wine resulted in him getting drunk and losing control. The Bibles does not condone drunkenness, and Noah's experience highlights the dangers of consuming potent fermented drinks in a society without modern refrigeration techniques.