The Greek word oinophlygía, represented by G3632, means an overflow or surplus of wine, signifying vinolency or drunkenness. Defined as excess of wine, this term appears only 1 time in 1 unique verse in the Bible, highlighting a specific aspect of indulgence that is contrary to a godly life.
The sole use of G3632 is in 1 Peter 4:3, where it is part of a list of behaviors characterizing a past life lived according to "the will of the Gentiles." The verse states that the past is sufficient "to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries." Here, excess of wine is situated among a group of sensual and ungodly activities from which believers are to have separated themselves.
Several related words appear alongside G3632 in its only biblical context, helping to define the nature of the behavior being condemned:
- G766 asélgeia (licentiousness): This term for licentiousness or wantonness is listed directly with "excess of wine" in 1 Peter 4:3. It is also described as a "work of the flesh" Galatians 5:19 and is something to be repented of 2 Corinthians 12:21.
- G1939 epithymía (a longing, especially for what is forbidden): This word for lusts is also found in the list in 1 Peter 4:3. It is frequently associated with the "lust of the flesh" Galatians 5:16 and is contrasted with living soberly and godly Titus 2:12.
- G2970 kōmos (a carousal): Translated as revellings or rioting, this word appears with G3632 in 1 Peter 4:3. It is also listed among behaviors that prevent one from inheriting the kingdom of God Galatians 5:21 and is contrasted with walking honestly Romans 13:13.
- G4224 pótos (a drinking-bout or carousal): This term for banquetings is mentioned in the same list in 1 Peter 4:3, further emphasizing a context of excessive indulgence.
The theological weight of G3632 is derived almost entirely from its context within a catalogue of vices.
- A Sign of a Past Life: Its use in 1 Peter 4:3 clearly marks "excess of wine" as a behavior belonging to a former, unredeemed lifestyle. The passage indicates that believers have spent enough time in such practices.
- Association with Gentile Will: The behavior is explicitly linked to "the will of the Gentiles," setting it in direct opposition to the will of God.
- Connection to Fleshly Vices: G3632 is not an isolated sin but is part of a cluster of behaviors including lasciviousness G766, lusts G1939, revellings G2970, and banquetings G4224, all of which stem from fleshly desires rather than spiritual discipline.
In summary, G3632 is a highly specific term for excess of wine or drunkenness. Although used only once, its placement in 1 Peter 4:3 gives it significant meaning. It is presented as a definitive example of the ungodly and indulgent lifestyle that believers are called to abandon. Its association with a broader list of vices such as lusts, revellings, and lasciviousness frames it as part of a life lived according to the flesh, which stands in stark contrast to a life lived in accordance with the Spirit.
TRV