Topical Encyclopedia Wine-presses hold significant importance in biblical times, serving as essential tools in the production of wine, a staple in ancient Near Eastern culture. The process of winemaking is frequently mentioned in the Bible, symbolizing both abundance and divine judgment.Description and Function A wine-press typically consisted of two main parts: a large, shallow basin where grapes were trodden, and a lower vat where the juice collected. The upper basin was often hewn out of rock or constructed from stone, allowing individuals to crush the grapes by foot. This method ensured that the seeds were not crushed, which could impart bitterness to the juice. The juice would then flow through a channel into the lower vat, where it was collected for fermentation. Biblical References Wine-presses are mentioned throughout the Scriptures, often in the context of agricultural abundance and blessing. In Isaiah 5:2, the prophet describes the care and preparation of a vineyard, including the construction of a wine-press: "He dug it up and cleared the stones and planted the finest vines. He built a watchtower in the middle of it and dug out a winepress as well. Then He waited for it to yield good grapes, but it produced only worthless ones." The imagery of the wine-press is also used to depict divine judgment. In Revelation 14:19-20, the wine-press symbolizes God's 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." Symbolism and Spiritual Significance Wine-presses symbolize both the blessings of God and His judgment. The abundance of wine is often associated with joy and celebration, as seen in Psalm 104:15, which speaks of wine that "gladdens the heart of man." Conversely, the wine-press is a powerful metaphor for the execution of divine justice, as seen in the prophetic writings. In the New Testament, Jesus uses the imagery of the vineyard and wine-press in His parables to convey spiritual truths. In Matthew 21:33, He tells the parable of the tenants: "There was a landowner who planted a vineyard. He put a wall around it, dug a winepress in it, and built a watchtower. Then he rented it out to some tenants and went away on a journey." This parable highlights themes of stewardship, accountability, and the consequences of rejecting God's messengers. Cultural and Historical Context In ancient Israel, wine was a common beverage, integral to daily life and religious rituals. The process of winemaking was labor-intensive, requiring community effort during the harvest season. Wine-presses were often located in vineyards, which were typically situated on hillsides to take advantage of the sun and drainage. The presence of wine-presses in archaeological sites throughout the region attests to the historical accuracy of biblical descriptions. These findings provide insight into the agricultural practices and economic life of ancient Israel. Conclusion Wine-presses in the Bible serve as a vivid reminder of both the blessings and judgments of God. They are a testament to the agricultural heritage of the biblical world and a symbol of the spiritual truths conveyed through Scripture. Strong's Hebrew 3342. yeqeb -- wine vat... Word Origin from an unused word Definition wine vat NASB Word Usage presses (1), vats (3), wine press (3), wine presses (3), wine vat (6). ... /hebrew/3342.htm - 6k 1660. gath -- a wine press Library Psalm LXXXIV. Psalm VIII. On the Psalms. I. The Story of Gideon and his Three Hundred Soldiers Reformation Sabbath Observance On Earthly Things Matt. xviii. 21 Our Lord in the Garden On his Sister Gorgonia. Thesaurus Winepresses (5 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Winepresses (5 Occurrences). ... Job 24:11 Which make oil within their walls, and tread their winepresses, and suffer thirst. ... /w/winepresses.htm - 8k Wine-presses (4 Occurrences) Presses (12 Occurrences) Wine-press (11 Occurrences) Hananel (4 Occurrences) Wine (282 Occurrences) Tread (60 Occurrences) Press (57 Occurrences) Zorah (10 Occurrences) King's (375 Occurrences) Resources What did Jesus mean when He said we must eat His flesh and drink His blood? | GotQuestions.orgDid Jesus change the water into wine or grape juice? | GotQuestions.org Did Jesus drink wine/alcohol? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Wine-presses (4 Occurrences)Job 24:11 Jeremiah 48:33 Joel 3:13 Zechariah 14:10 Subtopics Related Terms |
    |