Definition and Origin:
Cola, in the context of a Bible Encyclopedia, does not refer to the modern carbonated beverage but rather to any plant or substance that might have been used in biblical times for its stimulating properties. The term "cola" itself does not appear in the Bible; however, the concept of stimulating or refreshing drinks can be explored through biblical references to beverages and plants.

Biblical Context:
While the Bible does not specifically mention cola or similar stimulants, it does reference various plants and drinks that were significant in ancient times. For example, wine is frequently mentioned as a common beverage, often used in celebrations and religious ceremonies. In Psalm 104:15, it is noted that God provides "wine that gladdens the heart of man, oil to make his face shine, and bread that sustains his heart" . This highlights the cultural importance of beverages in biblical times.

Cultural and Historical Insights:
In ancient Near Eastern cultures, various plants and herbs were used for their medicinal and stimulating properties. While the Bible does not explicitly mention cola nuts or similar plants, it is possible that ancient peoples had access to a variety of natural stimulants. The use of such plants would have been consistent with the broader ancient practice of utilizing natural resources for health and vitality.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance:
Beverages in the Bible often carry symbolic meanings. Wine, for instance, is a symbol of joy and blessing, as seen in the wedding at Cana where Jesus turned water into wine (John 2:1-11). Similarly, the concept of refreshment and renewal is a recurring theme, as seen in Isaiah 55:1, "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy and eat!" . This invitation to spiritual nourishment can be metaphorically linked to the idea of a refreshing drink.

Theological Reflections:
From a theological perspective, the idea of refreshment and stimulation can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual renewal and the invigorating presence of the Holy Spirit. In Ephesians 5:18, believers are encouraged to "be filled with the Spirit" , which can be understood as a call to seek spiritual vitality and strength from God, much like one might seek physical refreshment from a drink.

Practical Application:
While the Bible does not provide direct guidance on the consumption of modern stimulants like cola, it does offer principles for living a balanced and disciplined life. Believers are encouraged to exercise self-control and moderation in all things (Galatians 5:22-23). This principle can be applied to the consumption of any substance, ensuring that it does not become a hindrance to one's spiritual walk.

Conclusion:
Though the Bible does not specifically address cola or similar stimulants, the broader themes of refreshment, renewal, and moderation provide valuable insights for understanding how such substances might be viewed within a biblical framework.COLA

ko'-la.

See CHOLA.

Text-Divisions: Stichi, Chapters, Lections, Catenae.
... apud Hebraeos ligari, et aliquid simile habere de Psalmis vet operibus Salomonis;
sed quod in Demosthene et Tullio solet fieri, ut per cola scribantur et ...
/.../chapter vi text-divisions stichi chapters.htm

Imperial Tombs.
... burial of Augustus."His will."The Monumentum Ancyranum."Description and history
of his mausoleum."Its connection with the Colonnas and Cola di Rienzo ...
/.../lanciani/pagan and christian rome/chapter iv imperial tombs.htm

Causes of the Reformation
... Hence in his politics he was strongly nationalist, and hence, too, he threw the
whole weight of his influence on the side of Cola di Rienzi, when in 1347 the ...
/.../chapter i causes of the.htm

"A Strange Lad!" Said Abbe Vergniaud, Abruptly. ...
... "Per carita Mostrami il cielo; Tulto e un velo, E non si sa Dove e il cielo. Se
si sta Cosi cola, Non si sa Se non si va Ahi me lontano! Tulto e in vano! ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/corelli/the master-christian/viii a strange lad said.htm

The Bohemian Brethern and the Waldenses.
... Di. Afin que yo conoissa lui meseyme e cola e havent la soa gracia meseyme sia
salv?�. That I may know and serve him, and be saved by his grace. ...
/.../ 72 the bohemian brethern.htm

Christian Churches.
... of Rome is brought to a close, is described by one document only: an inscription
above the gate of the castle, which was copied first by Cola di Rienzo, and ...
/.../lanciani/pagan and christian rome/chapter iii christian churches.htm

Cola
Cola. Coins, Cola. Cold . Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia COLA.
ko'-la. See CHOLA. Coins, Cola. Cold . Reference Bible.
/c/cola.htm - 6k

Coins (13 Occurrences)

/c/coins.htm - 13k

Cold (25 Occurrences)

/c/cold.htm - 18k

Chola
... ko'-la (Chola; the King James Version, Cola): This names occurs only with that of
Chobai (see CHOBA) in Judith 15:4. It may be identical with the modern Ka`un ...
/c/chola.htm - 6k

Cola: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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