מִשְׁרָה

מִשְׁרָה

maceration, i.e. steeped juice

Definition

The Hebrew noun מִשְׁרָה (mishrâh) refers to a liquid produced by steeping or soaking, specifically a fermented drink made from grapes. It denotes a type of intoxicating beverage, distinct from fresh grape juice, as it results from a process of maceration where the fruit is allowed to soak and ferment. In its sole biblical occurrence in Numbers 6:3, it is listed among the alcoholic beverages a Nazirite must avoid, alongside wine and vinegar. The term emphasizes the product of a deliberate soaking process, likely yielding a potent drink.

Biblical Usage

This word appears only once in the Old Testament, in Numbers 6:3, within the legal instructions for the Nazirite vow. It is used in a list of prohibited beverages—'wine and strong drink' (שֵׁכָר, shekar), 'vinegar of wine, or vinegar of strong drink' (חֹמֶץ, chomets), and 'any liquor of grapes' (מִשְׁרַת עֲנָבִים, mishrat anavim)—that a person under this special consecration must not consume. Its usage is strictly cultic and legal, defining the boundaries of abstinence for a temporary period of heightened holiness.

Etymology

Derived from the root שָׁרָה (sharah, H8281), which carries meanings related to loosening, dissolving, or soaking. The noun form מִשְׁרָה specifically denotes the product or result of that soaking action. Cognates in related Semitic languages support the sense of a liquid obtained through steeping. The semantic development moves from the action of soaking to the resultant steeped or fermented juice.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it helps define the strict requirements of the Nazirite vow (Numbers 6:1-21), a voluntary act of consecration and separation unto God. Understanding that מִשְׁרָה refers to a specific type of intoxicant, not merely grape juice, clarifies the extent of the abstinence commanded. It underscores the biblical principle of intentional separation from worldly influences (symbolized by intoxicants) for periods of dedicated spiritual focus, pointing to themes of holiness, self-denial, and devotion to God's service. In ancient Israelite culture, various fermented beverages were common. מִשְׁרָה likely referred to a specific, perhaps potent, drink made by soaking grape skins, pulp, or lees in water or juice to extract remaining sugars and ferment them, a practice of maximizing yield. This differs from simple fresh juice or fully processed wine. Its inclusion in the Nazirite prohibition list reflects a comprehensive ban on all intoxicating grape products, not just standard wine, highlighting the vow's total commitment. יַיִן (yayin, H3196) — the common general term for wine. מִשְׁרָה is a specific type of steeped grape liquor. שֵׁכָר (shekar, H7941) — 'strong drink,' often made from grains or other fruits, a broader category of intoxicants that includes מִשְׁרָה.

Word Details