The Greek word oînos, represented by G3631, is the primary term for "wine". It appears 33 times across 25 unique verses in the Bible. The word is used both literally to refer to the fermented beverage and figuratively to represent concepts of divine judgment or spiritual influence.
In scripture, G3631 is found in diverse contexts. It is central to Jesus' first miracle, where He turned water into wine at the wedding in Cana John 2:9. The word is also used in the parable of new wine, which must be put into new wineskins (Matthew 9:17, Luke 5:38). In a figurative sense, wine symbolizes the fierce wrath G3709 of God that will be poured out in judgment (Revelation 14:10, Revelation 19:15) and the corrupting influence of Babylon's fornication G4202 Revelation 17:2. Instructions regarding its consumption are also given, with leaders being warned not to be given to much wine (1 Timothy 3:8, Titus 2:3) and believers cautioned against drunkenness Ephesians 5:18.
Several related words clarify the context and implications of G3631:
- G4095 pínō (to imbibe): This verb for "to drink" is frequently used with wine, as seen in the admonition not to drink wine if it causes a brother to stumble Romans 14:21.
- G3184 methýō (to drink to intoxication): This term describes the effect of wine, such as when the ruler of the feast noted that good wine is usually served before men have well drunk John 2:10.
- G779 askós (a leathern (or skin) bag used as a bottle): This word identifies the container for wine, most notably in the parable where new wine bursts old bottles Mark 2:22.
- G4608 síkera (an intoxicant, i.e. intensely fermented liquor): This term for strong drink is used alongside wine to describe the Nazirite vow of John the Baptist, who would drink neither Luke 1:15.
The theological significance of G3631 is varied, touching on themes of judgment, blessing, and spiritual discipline.
- Divine Judgment: In the book of Revelation, the "wine of the wrath of God" is a potent symbol for His fierce and undiluted judgment against sin and rebellion (Revelation 14:10, Revelation 16:19).
- Spiritual Corruption: Figuratively, the "wine of the wrath of her fornication" represents the intoxicating and deceptive influence of the worldly system, personified as Babylon G897, which leads nations into idolatry (Revelation 14:8, Revelation 18:3).
- Blessing and Practical Use: Wine appears as a blessing in contexts of celebration, like the wedding at Cana John 2:10, and as a practical provision for medicinal purposes (Luke 10:34, 1 Timothy 5:23).
- Christian Sobriety: The New Testament contrasts being drunk with wine with being filled with the Spirit G4151, calling believers to moderation and self-control rather than excess G810 Ephesians 5:18.
In summary, G3631 is a word with dual significance. It functions as a literal substance in daily life, from a staple commodity Revelation 18:13 to a tool for healing Luke 10:34, but it also serves as a profound figurative symbol. As a metaphor, it can represent the holy wrath G3709 of God Revelation 19:15 or the corrupting spiritual influence of worldly powers Revelation 17:2. Its use across scripture illustrates themes of divine judgment, blessing, and the call to spiritual sobriety over physical indulgence.
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