

Wine, Worship, and Craftsmanship: A Biblical Theology of Alcohol (John Dunne) Ep #206
7 snips Jun 26, 2025
In this enlightening discussion, John Dunne, author of *The Mountain Shall Drip Sweet Wine*, reveals the rich cultural and theological significance of wine in ancient Israel. He examines the artistry behind winemaking, emphasizing its connection to divine blessing and abundance. Dunne challenges modern perceptions, highlighting wine's role in biblical miracles, such as Jesus turning water into white wine. The conversation delves into fermentation methods and ancient techniques, offering a fresh perspective on how wine shaped both community rituals and spiritual life.
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Biblical Wine as Symbolic Craftsmanship
- Ancient biblical wine was more than calories; it represented craftsmanship and divine blessing.
- Modern views often miss the symbolic abundance and cultural significance in biblical alcohol.
Wine as Promise of Abundance
- Ancient wine represented not only food but a promise of agricultural abundance and divine favor.
- The metaphor of mountains dripping with sweet wine symbolizes security from famine, war, and ecological disaster.
Biblical Alcohol Beyond Wine
- Biblical alcohol includes grain-based drinks (beer), not only grape wine.
- Ancient fermentation capped alcohol content naturally around 12-15%, so no distilled spirits existed.