Isaiah 5:22

KJV

Woe unto [them that are] mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink:

KJV (with Strong's)

Woe {H1945} unto them that are mighty {H1368} to drink {H8354} wine {H3196}, and men {H582} of strength {H2428} to mingle {H4537} strong drink {H7941}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Woe to those who are heroes at drinking wine, men whose power goes to mixing strong drinks,

Berean Standard Bible

Woe to those who are heroes in drinking wine and champions in mixing strong drink,

American Standard Version

Woe unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Isaiah 5:22 delivers a solemn prophetic declaration of "woe" against those in Judah who pride themselves on their excessive consumption of wine and their skill in preparing potent alcoholic beverages. This condemnation targets not merely casual drinking, but the boastful indulgence and intemperance of individuals, particularly those in positions of influence, whose lifestyles contribute to the moral decay and spiritual blindness of the nation, inviting divine judgment.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Isaiah 5 forms a crucial part of the prophet's early ministry, serving as a powerful indictment against Judah's spiritual and moral corruption. It begins with the "Song of the Vineyard" ([Isaiah 5:1-7](/isaiah/5-1 "Isaiah 5 - The Song of the Vineyard and its Meaning")), where God, as the loving vineyard owner, expresses His disappointment over Judah's failure to produce righteousness, yielding only wild grapes of injustice and oppression. Following this parable, Isaiah pronounces a series of six "woes" ([Isaiah 5:8-23](/isaiah/5 "Isaiah 5 - Woes Against Judah's Sins")), each targeting a specific societal sin that has become rampant in Judah. Verse 22 is the fifth of these woes, specifically condemning the sin of intemperate drinking and the pride associated with it, directly following the woe against those who rise early to pursue strong drink ([Isaiah 5:11-12](/isaiah/5-11 "Isaiah 5:11-12 - Woe Against Drunkenness")). It highlights a pervasive problem among the elite, contributing to the overall moral decline that will ultimately lead to God's judgment and the nation's exile.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israelite society, like many in the Near East, consumed wine as a staple beverage, often diluted with water. However, the context of Isaiah 5:22 points to a culture of excessive indulgence, particularly among the wealthy and powerful. "Mighty" and "men of strength" likely refer to the social elite, nobles, or rulers who had the means and leisure to engage in such revelry. In this period, social status could sometimes be flaunted through lavish banquets and the consumption of potent drinks. The "mingling" of strong drink suggests the deliberate preparation of beverages to increase their intoxicating effect, perhaps by adding spices or other ingredients, indicating a pursuit of extreme intoxication rather than mere social drinking. This behavior was not only a personal vice but also a public scandal, setting a poor example for the populace and contributing to a general atmosphere of moral laxity and disregard for God's law, which was a significant factor in Judah's impending judgment by the Assyrian and later Babylonian empires.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Isaiah and the broader prophetic literature. **Intemperance and Excess** is directly addressed, condemning not just drinking, but the boastful, excessive consumption of alcohol and the deliberate pursuit of intoxication, which leads to impaired judgment and moral decay. The phrase "mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink" underscores the theme of **Abuse of Power and Influence**, suggesting that those in positions of authority were setting a terrible example, using their status to indulge in vice rather than uphold righteousness. The opening word "Woe" (Hebrew: *hôwy*) introduces the theme of **Divine Judgment**, signaling God's severe displeasure and the inevitable consequences for such behavior, echoing the warnings found throughout prophetic books against injustice and unrighteousness (e.g., [Amos 6:1-7](/amos/6-1 "Amos 6:1-7 - Woe to Those at Ease in Zion")). Finally, this specific sin is presented as a symptom of broader **Societal Decay**, highlighting how individual moral failures, especially among leaders, contribute to the spiritual sickness of the entire nation, ultimately leading to its downfall and exile, as prophesied throughout [Isaiah](/isaiah/1 "The Book of Isaiah").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Woe (Hebrew, _hôwy'_):** This interjection is a prolonged form of a cry of lament or sorrow, akin to "oh!" or "alas!" In prophetic literature, it functions as a solemn declaration of impending judgment or a lament over a tragic state of affairs. It signals God's displeasure and the dire consequences awaiting those against whom it is pronounced, often serving as an introduction to a divine curse or a pronouncement of doom.
* **mighty (Hebrew, _gibbôwr'_):** Derived from a root meaning "powerful," this term denotes someone strong, powerful, or a warrior. It can also imply a champion or chief, often used in a positive sense. However, in this context, it is used ironically or sarcastically to describe strength applied to a vice—being "mighty" in the capacity for excessive drinking, highlighting the perversion of true strength into a destructive indulgence.
* **strong drink (Hebrew, _shêkâr'_):** This term refers to any intensely alcoholic liquor, distinct from grape wine (_yayin_). It could be made from grains, dates, or honey, and was often more potent than wine. The phrase "to mingle strong drink" (from _mâçak_) suggests the deliberate preparation of these beverages, perhaps by adding spices or other ingredients to increase their intoxicating effect, emphasizing the intentional pursuit of extreme inebriation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Woe unto [them that are] mighty to drink wine,"**: This opening clause immediately establishes a tone of lament and condemnation. The "woe" is directed at individuals who possess a remarkable capacity or boastful ability to consume large quantities of wine. The term "mighty" is used ironically; their "strength" is not in virtue or righteous deeds, but in a destructive indulgence, suggesting a perversion of true power and influence. This highlights a culture where excessive drinking had become a perverse mark of status or prowess.
* **"and men of strength to mingle strong drink:"**: This second clause parallels and intensifies the first, employing synonymous parallelism. It refers to individuals who are not only heavy drinkers but also skilled in preparing or mixing potent alcoholic beverages ("strong drink," distinct from wine, often more intoxicating). The "strength" here further emphasizes their dedication to this vice, implying a deliberate and perhaps even boastful effort to create and consume drinks designed for maximum intoxication. This goes beyond mere consumption to the active cultivation of a culture of drunkenness, likely among the elite who could afford and facilitate such practices.

#### Literary Devices
The verse powerfully employs several literary devices to convey its message of condemnation. The most prominent is the **Woe Oracle**, introduced by the Hebrew term *hôwy* (translated "Woe"). This is a standard prophetic form, functioning as both a lament over a tragic situation and a pronouncement of divine judgment, signaling God's severe displeasure with the described behavior. The verse also utilizes **Parallelism**, specifically **Synonymous Parallelism**, where "mighty to drink wine" is echoed and reinforced by "men of strength to mingle strong drink." This repetition emphasizes the extent and nature of the sin, highlighting both the excessive consumption and the deliberate preparation of intoxicating beverages. Furthermore, there is a strong element of **Irony** in the use of terms like "mighty" and "men of strength." These words typically denote valor, power, or virtue, but here they are applied to a destructive vice, underscoring the perversion of true strength and the moral degradation of those who boast in their intemperance. The language also borders on **Hyperbole**, describing a "might" or "strength" in drinking that suggests an extreme, almost competitive, level of indulgence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Isaiah 5:22 serves as a stark reminder of God's condemnation of intemperance and the abuse of power. Theologically, it underscores the principle that true strength and influence are not found in self-indulgence or the mastery of vice, but in righteousness and self-control. It highlights how excessive focus on earthly pleasures can lead to spiritual blindness and a disregard for God's work, ultimately inviting divine judgment. The prophet's "woe" is a testament to God's moral order, where unbridled appetites, especially among leaders, contribute to societal decay and undermine the covenant relationship. This passage calls believers to a life of moderation, sobriety, and responsible stewardship of their bodies and influence, recognizing that all aspects of life should honor God.

* [Proverbs 20:1](/proverbs/20-1 "Proverbs 20:1 - Wine is a Mocker")
* [1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Our Bodies are Temples of the Holy Spirit")
* [Ephesians 5:18](/ephesians/5-18 "Ephesians 5:18 - Be Filled with the Spirit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Isaiah 5:22, while rooted in an ancient context, carries profound contemporary relevance. It challenges us to examine not only our literal consumption habits but also any area of our lives where we might boast in excess, whether it be in material possessions, work, entertainment, or even self-righteousness. The "might" to drink wine can be reinterpreted as a "strength" in any form of indulgence that distracts us from God's purposes, impairs our judgment, or leads to spiritual apathy. This verse calls us to cultivate self-control, humility, and a clear-eyed awareness of God's presence and work in the world. It particularly speaks to those in positions of leadership or influence, reminding us that our actions set an example, and our stewardship of resources and power should reflect God's wisdom, not human pride or appetite. True strength lies in resisting the pull of destructive habits and living a life that honors God and serves others, rather than one defined by self-serving indulgence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How might "being mighty to drink wine" manifest in contemporary society, beyond literal alcohol consumption?**
* **In what ways can we be tempted to boast in our excesses or unhealthy habits rather than seeking moderation and self-control?**
* **What responsibility do those in positions of influence have to model temperance and wisdom for others?**
* **How does our pursuit of earthly pleasures potentially distract us from God's work and presence in our lives?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of "woe" in this verse?**

Answer: The term "woe" (Hebrew: *hôwy*) is a powerful prophetic interjection. It functions as a lament, expressing deep sorrow or regret over a tragic situation, but more significantly, it serves as a declaration of impending divine judgment. When Isaiah pronounces "woe," he is signaling God's severe displeasure with the behavior described and foreshadowing the inevitable, often dire, consequences that will follow for those who persist in such sin. It is a solemn warning that highlights the gravity of the moral and spiritual decay.

**Who are the "mighty" and "men of strength" being addressed?**

Answer: The phrases "mighty to drink wine" and "men of strength to mingle strong drink" likely refer to the social elite, leaders, nobles, or those in positions of wealth and influence within Judah. These individuals had the resources and leisure to engage in lavish banquets and excessive revelry. The terms "mighty" and "strength" are used ironically, highlighting how their power was perverted from serving God and society to indulging in destructive personal habits. Their intemperance was not just a private vice but a public display that contributed to the moral corruption of the nation, setting a poor example for others and inviting God's judgment, as seen throughout [Isaiah 5](/isaiah/5 "Isaiah 5 - Woes Against Judah's Sins").

**What is the difference between "wine" and "strong drink" in this context?**

Answer: In ancient Israel, "wine" (Hebrew: *yayin*) typically referred to fermented grape juice, a common beverage. "Strong drink" (Hebrew: *shêkâr*), on the other hand, denoted any other intensely alcoholic beverage, often more potent than wine, possibly made from grains, dates, or honey. The phrase "to mingle strong drink" (Hebrew: *mâçak*) suggests the deliberate preparation of these beverages, perhaps by adding spices or other ingredients, to increase their intoxicating effect. This distinction emphasizes the intentional pursuit of extreme inebriation, beyond the casual or even social consumption of wine, highlighting a deliberate and boastful indulgence in potent intoxicants.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Isaiah 5:22's condemnation of those "mighty to drink wine" and "men of strength to mingle strong drink" finds its ultimate contrast and fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the verse laments the perversion of human strength into self-indulgent vice, Christ embodies true strength—not in earthly power or the capacity for excess, but in perfect self-control, humility, and obedience to God. Unlike the proud revelers who sought intoxication, Jesus was "filled with the Spirit" ([Luke 4:1](/luke/4-1 "Luke 4:1 - Jesus Full of the Holy Spirit")), demonstrating a life of complete sobriety and spiritual clarity, even when tempted ([Matthew 4:1-11](/matthew/4-1 "Matthew 4:1-11 - The Temptation of Jesus")). He taught that true greatness lies in humble service, not in lording power over others or indulging in personal appetites ([Matthew 20:25-28](/matthew/20-25 "Matthew 20:25-28 - Greatness Through Service")). Christ's sacrifice on the cross redeems humanity from the futility of a life consumed by sin, including intemperance ([1 Peter 1:18-19](/1_peter/1-18 "1 Peter 1:18-19 - Redeemed by Christ's Blood")), and empowers believers through the Holy Spirit to cultivate the fruit of self-control ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")). Thus, where Isaiah pronounces woe upon those who boast in their vice, Christ offers grace and the power to live a life of temperance, wisdom, and righteousness, reflecting His perfect example and fulfilling God's desire for humanity's true strength to be found in Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Isaiah 5:11

Woe unto them that rise up early in the morning, [that] they may follow strong drink; that continue until night, [till] wine inflame them!

Habakkuk 2:15

¶ Woe unto him that giveth his neighbour drink, that puttest thy bottle to [him], and makest [him] drunken also, that thou mayest look on their nakedness!

Isaiah 28:7

But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble [in] judgment.

Proverbs 23:19

¶ Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the way.

Proverbs 23:20

Be not among winebibbers; among riotous eaters of flesh:

Isaiah 56:12

Come ye, [say they], I will fetch wine, and we will fill ourselves with strong drink; and to morrow shall be as this day, [and] much more abundant.

Isaiah 28:1

¶ Woe to the crown of pride, to the drunkards of Ephraim, whose glorious beauty [is] a fading flower, which [are] on the head of the fat valleys of them that are overcome with wine!