### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
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.
TRV