Drinking during Biblical Times

Hello Anonymous,

In the Bible, wine is included among the blessings from God and described as something that “gladdens the heart of man.” Jesus turn water into wine, wine apparently was taken at the last supper, and it appears that Jesus himself drank wine.  According to some theologians, wine in the first century Judea was mixed with water. But, whether wine was strong or diluted, people had a responsibility to control their input. Throughout the Bible, excessive drinking is condemned. Paul wrote, “Do not get drunk on wine, “ and This “leads to debauchery.”  “Instead be filled with the Spirit.” Also,  read, Proverbs 23:29-35.  The Bible seems to warn against drunkenness and teaches drinking in moderation.  Abstinence was also considered favorably.

During biblical times, there were people that did drink and get drunk.  The first person in the Bible to get drunk was Noah. Genesis 9, verse 20-24. He planted a vineyard, made wine, and got drunk. Genesis 19:30-38 - Lot was so drunk he did not know what he was doing; this led to immorality. 2 Samuel 13:28-29 - Amnon was drunk when he was killed.