Topical Encyclopedia The term "wine-crusher" refers to the ancient process and equipment used in the production of wine, a significant agricultural and cultural product in biblical times. The process of wine-crushing is closely associated with the biblical imagery of vineyards and winepresses, which are frequently mentioned throughout Scripture.Biblical Context and Imagery In the Bible, the production of wine begins with the harvesting of grapes, which are then crushed to extract their juice. This initial step is crucial in the winemaking process and is often carried out in a winepress. The winepress is a structure where grapes are trodden underfoot or crushed by mechanical means to release their juice. This imagery is vividly depicted in several passages, symbolizing both abundance and judgment. One of the most notable references to the winepress is found in Isaiah 63:2-3 , where the prophet describes the Lord's judgment: "Why are Your clothes red, and Your garments like one who treads the winepress? 'I have trodden the winepress alone, and no one from the nations was with Me. I trampled them in My anger and trod them down in My wrath; their blood spattered My garments, and all My clothes were stained.'" Similarly, Revelation 14:19-20 uses the imagery of a winepress to depict divine wrath: "So the angel swung his sickle over the earth and gathered the grapes of the earth, and he threw them into the great winepress of God’s wrath. And the winepress was trodden outside the city, and blood flowed out of the press, rising as high as the horses’ bridles for a distance of 1,600 stadia." Cultural and Historical Significance In ancient Israel, vineyards and wine production were integral to the economy and daily life. The winepress was typically a two-part structure consisting of a large, shallow basin where grapes were crushed and a lower vat where the juice collected. The crushing was often done by foot, a method that allowed for gentle extraction without breaking the seeds, which could impart bitterness to the wine. The abundance of wine was seen as a blessing from God, symbolizing prosperity and joy. Psalm 104:14-15 highlights this blessing: "He makes the grass grow for the livestock and provides crops for man to cultivate, bringing forth food from the earth: wine that gladdens the heart of man, oil that makes his face to shine, and bread that sustains his heart." Spiritual Symbolism Wine and the process of its production carry deep spiritual symbolism in the Bible. The crushing of grapes in the winepress is often used metaphorically to describe God's judgment and the purification of His people. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of sin and the need for repentance. Moreover, wine is also a symbol of the New Covenant in Christ's blood, as seen in the Last Supper. Jesus used wine to represent His blood, shed for the forgiveness of sins, establishing a new relationship between God and humanity. Matthew 26:27-28 records Jesus' words: "Then He took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, 'Drink from it, all of you. This is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.'" In summary, the concept of the wine-crusher in biblical times encompasses both the practical aspects of winemaking and the profound spiritual truths conveyed through the imagery of the winepress. Concordance Wine-crusher (2 Occurrences)Revelation 14:19 Joel 3:13 Thesaurus Wine-crusher (2 Occurrences)Wine-crusher. Wine-cellars, Wine-crusher. Wine-crushing . Multi-Version Concordance Wine-crusher (2 Occurrences). Revelation ... /w/wine-crusher.htm - 7k Blade (23 Occurrences) Wine-cellars (1 Occurrence) Wine-crushing (1 Occurrence) Overflowing (54 Occurrences) Grapes (74 Occurrences) Cut (616 Occurrences) Evil-doing (106 Occurrences) Resources Did Jesus change the water into wine or grape juice? | GotQuestions.orgDid Jesus drink wine/alcohol? | GotQuestions.org Should wine or grape juice be used for communion? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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