Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "Wine of the Passion of Her Immorality" is a symbolic expression found in the Book of Revelation, specifically in Revelation 14:8, 17:2, and 18:3. This imagery is used to describe the corrupting influence and seductive power of Babylon, often interpreted as a representation of a worldly system opposed to God.Biblical Context: 1. Revelation 14:8 : "Then a second angel followed, saying, 'Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great, who has made all the nations drink the wine of the passion of her immorality.'" 2. Revelation 17:2 : "The kings of the earth were immoral with her, and those who dwell on the earth were intoxicated with the wine of her immorality." 3. Revelation 18:3 : "For all the nations have drunk the wine of the passion of her immorality. The kings of the earth were immoral with her, and the merchants of the earth have grown wealthy from the extravagance of her luxury." Symbolism and Interpretation: · Babylon the Great: In the apocalyptic literature of Revelation, Babylon is often seen as a symbol of human civilization in rebellion against God. It represents a system characterized by idolatry, immorality, and opposition to divine authority. The "wine" signifies the intoxicating allure and deceptive nature of this system, which leads nations and individuals away from righteousness. · Immorality and Idolatry: The "passion of her immorality" suggests a fervent, unrestrained indulgence in sinful practices. This immorality is not limited to sexual sin but encompasses a broader spectrum of idolatrous and unethical behaviors that defy God's commandments. The imagery of wine indicates how these practices can be enticing and lead to spiritual intoxication, impairing moral judgment. · Intoxication of the Nations: The repeated mention of nations and kings being "intoxicated" underscores the widespread influence of Babylon's corrupting power. This intoxication implies a loss of spiritual discernment and a willing participation in the system's sinful practices. The metaphor of drinking wine highlights the voluntary nature of this participation, as nations and leaders choose to partake in Babylon's seductive offerings. · Economic and Political Implications: Revelation 18:3 connects the immorality of Babylon with economic prosperity, as merchants grow wealthy from her luxury. This suggests that the system's allure is not only spiritual but also material, offering wealth and power in exchange for moral compromise. The text warns of the dangers of prioritizing material gain over spiritual integrity. Theological Reflections: The "Wine of the Passion of Her Immorality" serves as a cautionary symbol for believers, urging them to remain vigilant against the seductive influences of worldly systems that oppose God's kingdom. It calls for discernment and faithfulness, reminding Christians of the ultimate downfall of Babylon and the triumph of God's righteous rule. The imagery challenges believers to resist the temptations of immorality and idolatry, maintaining their allegiance to Christ amidst a world that often celebrates and rewards unrighteousness. Subtopics Wine in Excess: Impairs the Health Wine in Excess: Impairs the Judgment and Memory Wine in Excess: Inflames the Passions Wine in Excess: Infuriates the Temper Wine in Excess: Leads to Remorse Wine in Excess: Leads to Sorrow and Contention Wine in Times of Scarcity, Was Mixed With Water Wine of the Abominations of the Apostasy Wine of the Blessing of the Gospel Wine of the Joys of Spiritual Matters Wine of the Wrath and Judgments of God Wine Press of the Judgments of God Wine Press: General Scriptures Concerning Wine Press: Treading The, of the Sufferings of Christ Wine Press: Trodden With Joy and Shouting Wine was Made of The Juice of the Grape Wine was Made of The Juice of the Pomegranate Wine was Used for Drink offerings in Idolatrous Worship Wine was Used for Drink offerings in the Worship of God Wine was Used: As a Beverage from the Earliest Age Wine was Used: At all Feasts and Entertainments Wine with Corn and Oil, Denoted all Temporal Blessings Wine: Abstinence from of Daniel Wine: Abstinence from of the Courtiers of Ahasuerus Wine: Abstinence from of Timothy Wine: Admonitions Against the Use of Wine: An Article of Extensive Commerce Wine: Cheap Wine (Like Vinegar) Given to Jesus at the Crucifixion Wine: Consequence of Putting (When New), Into Old Bottles Wine: Custom of Giving to Persons in Pain or Suffering, Mixed With Wine: Custom of Presenting to Travellers Wine: First Fruits of, to be offered to God Wine: First Mode of Making, Notice Wine: Forbidden to Nazarites During Their Separation Wine: Forbidden to Priests While on Duty Wine: Forbidden to the Priests While Engaged in the Tabernacle Wine: Generally Made by Treading the Grapes in a Press Wine: Given by Melchizedek to Abraham Wine: Given in Abundance to the Jews when Obedient Wine: Intoxication from the Use of Wine: Intoxication From: Ahasuerus Wine: Intoxication From: Amnon Wine: Intoxication From: Falsely Charged Against the Disciples Wine: Intoxication From: Joseph and his Brothers Wine: Intoxication From: Kings of Israel Wine: Intoxication From: Nabal Wine: Made by Jesus at the Marriage Feast in Cana Wine: Often Spiced to Increase Its Strength Wine: Places Celebrated For: Assyria Wine: Places Celebrated For: Canaan in General Wine: Places Celebrated For: Helbon Wine: Places Celebrated For: Lebanon Wine: Places Celebrated For: Moab Wine: Places Celebrated For: Possessions of Judah Wine: Recommended by Paul to Timothy Wine: Samson's Mother Forbidden to Drink Wine: Sometimes Mixed With Milk As a Beverage Wine: Sweet, Esteemed for Flavour and Strength Wine: Symbolical of the Blood of Jesus Wine: The Jews Frequently Deprived of, As a Punishment Wine: The Jews Frequently Drank, to Excess Wine: The Love of Christ to be Preferred To Wine: The Rechabites Never Drank Wine: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Wine: Water Miraculously Turned Into Related Terms |