οἶνος

wine

Definition

In the New Testament, οἶνος (oinos) primarily refers to fermented grape wine, the common alcoholic beverage of the ancient Mediterranean world. It is used literally for the drink itself, as seen in the miracle at Cana (John 2:3, 9-10) and in the Last Supper accounts (Matthew 26:27-29). The word can also symbolize joy and celebration (Psalm 104:15, referenced in context), but carries warnings about excess and drunkenness (Ephesians 5:18). In a few metaphorical contexts, it represents divine judgment or wrath, as in the imagery of the 'wine of God's fury' (Revelation 14:8, 10).

Biblical Usage

The word is used across the Gospels, Acts, Epistles, and Revelation. In the Gospels, it appears in practical contexts like wineskins (Matthew 9:17, Mark 2:22, Luke 5:37-38) and as a point of contrast for John the Baptist's asceticism (Luke 7:33). Paul uses it in ethical instructions concerning consumption (Ephesians 5:18; 1 Timothy 3:8, 5:23). Revelation employs it symbolically for judgment (Revelation 14:8, 10; 16:19; 17:2; 18:3). The usage is evenly split between literal, practical references and symbolic or ethical applications.

Etymology

The word οἶνος is a native Greek term for wine, with a long history in ancient Greek literature (e.g., Homer). It is cognate with the Latin 'vinum' and other Indo-European words for wine. Its meaning remained stable, specifically denoting the fermented juice of the grape.

Semantic Range

Οἶνος is theologically significant as it appears in central narratives like the Last Supper, connecting to the covenant blood of Christ (Matthew 26:27-29). It also features in the ethical tension between God's good gift (1 Timothy 5:23) and the dangers of abuse (Ephesians 5:18). In Revelation, its symbolic use for divine wrath is crucial to apocalyptic imagery. Understanding this range—from sacrament to symbol of judgment—enriches reading by highlighting both God's provision and the serious consequences of sin.

In the 1st-century Mediterranean world, wine was a daily staple, often diluted with water. It was a key economic product, a symbol of festivity, and used medicinally. This contrasts with some modern contexts where any alcohol is viewed with suspicion. Drunkenness was socially condemned, but moderate consumption was normal and even associated with wisdom in some Jewish traditions (e.g., Sirach 31:27-31). Wine also had religious significance in Jewish rituals like Passover.

γλεῦκος (gleukos, G1098) — new or sweet wine, as at Pentecost (Acts 2:13).

Word Details

Scripture References