Isaiah 5:22

Isaiah 5:22 delivers a severe prophetic warning, part of a series of "woes" pronounced by the prophet Isaiah against the moral and spiritual decay of Judah. This particular declaration targets those who boast in their capacity for excessive drinking and the preparation of potent alcoholic beverages.

Context

Chapter 5 of Isaiah paints a grim picture of Judah's departure from God's ways, detailing various societal sins that invite divine judgment. The verses immediately preceding this one (Isaiah 5:11-12) decry those who rise early and stay late to pursue strong drink, ignoring the Lord's work. Verse 22 specifically condemns those who are "mighty" or "men of strength" in their drinking habits, implying a position of influence, wealth, or power that allows such indulgence, and perhaps even encourages it as a sign of status. This was not merely about moderate consumption, but about excessive revelry and the pride taken in intemperance among those in positions of authority.

Key Themes

• Intemperance and Excess: The verse directly addresses the sin of drunkenness, particularly when it becomes a point of pride or a display of "strength." It condemns the abuse of alcohol to the point of self-indulgence and moral laxity.
• Abuse of Power/Influence: The terms "mighty" and "men of strength" suggest that those being condemned are not just common people, but perhaps leaders, nobles, or those in positions of authority who set a poor example and whose excessive lifestyles contribute to societal corruption.
• Divine Judgment: The opening word "Woe" (Hebrew: hoy) is a solemn declaration of impending judgment or lament over a tragic state, indicating God's displeasure with such behavior and its consequences.
• Societal Decay: This sin, along with others listed in Isaiah 5, is presented as a symptom of a deeper spiritual sickness that was leading Judah towards ruin and exile.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "strong drink" in the KJV translates the Hebrew word shekar, which generally refers to any intoxicating beverage other than grape wine, often more potent, possibly made from grains, dates, or honey. To "mingle strong drink" (Hebrew: masak) suggests the preparation of these drinks, perhaps by adding spices or other ingredients to increase their potency or flavor, making them even more intoxicating. The emphasis is on the deliberate creation and consumption of highly intoxicating beverages, not just casual drinking.

Practical Application

While specific cultural practices have changed, the principles embedded in Isaiah 5:22 remain highly relevant. The verse serves as a timeless warning against:

• Excessive Indulgence: It calls believers to moderation and self-control, reminding us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19).
• Pride in Vice: It challenges any attitude that glorifies or boasts in destructive habits, especially those that impair judgment or lead to sin.
• Leadership and Influence: Those in positions of power or influence bear a greater responsibility to live righteously, as their actions can significantly impact others. Leaders are called to sobriety and wisdom, not to set examples of intemperance.
• Spiritual Awareness: The passage implicitly reminds us that excessive focus on earthly pleasures can distract from and ultimately diminish our awareness of God's work and presence, leading to spiritual blindness (Hosea 4:11). Instead of being "filled with wine," believers are called to be filled with the Spirit.