Wine appears more than 200 times in the Bible, with 30 references in the New Testament and 180 in the Old Testament. Almost all of these references are positive, celebrating wine as a gift and blessing rather than critiquing it.
Jesus was known to drink wine and share meals with a variety of people, including outcasts and religious elites. His first miracle, turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana, highlights his affirmation of celebration and joy. Wine was also central to the Last Supper, where it symbolized his shed blood.
Early Christians, like Cyprian in the 3rd century, defended wine in communion against groups like the Hydroperastatai, who insisted on using water. Cyprian argued that avoiding wine was disobedient to Jesus' commands at the Last Supper and removed God's grace. Wine was seen as a gift from God and a symbol of Christ's sacrifice.
Noah planting a vineyard after the flood was an act of faith, as vineyards take years to bear fruit. It symbolized confidence in God's future and the establishment of a new civilization. This act is profound because it contrasts with the immediate need for food, showing Noah's trust in God's long-term provision.
Benedictine monks played a crucial role in developing wine culture by planting vineyards and crafting wine as part of their agrarian lifestyle. They needed wine for the Eucharist and also contributed to the creation of iconic wines like champagne and port. Their work was seen as an act of worship and a way to glorify God.
Holy tipsiness refers to a slight level of intoxication that allows people to relax, let go of pretensions, and open up to meaningful conversations. It is seen as a positive experience that fosters vulnerability and connection, contrasting with the negative effects of heavy drunkenness.
The temperance movement in America, driven by social well-being concerns, led to Prohibition (1920-1933) to curb alcohol abuse. This movement arose from rampant alcohol abuse, especially after the Civil War, and left a legacy of ambivalence toward alcohol, with many Americans believing a healthy relationship with it was impossible.
In the Last Supper, wine symbolizes Jesus' shed blood and his sacrificial death. It also represents the joy of resurrection and eternal life, as the winemaking process—crushing grapes to produce wine—parallels Christ's death and transformation into new life.
In the Old Testament, wine is celebrated as a gift from God that brings gladness and joy. It is associated with abundance, celebration, and God's blessing, as seen in passages like Psalm 104, which describes wine as a means to gladden human hearts.
Gisela Kreglinger views wine as a means to deepen relationships with God, others, and creation. She emphasizes that wine is meant to be shared in community, fostering joy and connection, rather than consumed alone. It is a gift that enhances celebrations and helps people lean into joy, even during difficult times.
If we’re talking only about liquids you drink—because the water in the Bible is washed in, crossed over, and even walked on once—wine is no.1.
Wine appears more than 200 times in the Bible. And almost all of them are positive references—not critiques.
Christianity has a long, rich history with wine. But oftentimes, we’ve made it much more complicated and, at times, harmful.