Online Reporter
Cuthbert Mavheko
IN these hectic modern times, many devout believers sincerely hold that God forbids any use of alcoholic beverages — that any consumption of alcohol is wholly wrong and sinful. Yet, as sober and discerning theologians will attest, prohibitionists tend to focus exclusively on scriptures condemning or illustrating the consequences of misuse. Contrariwise, there are passages that clearly permit moderate and responsible use.
God is the Creator of every good and beneficial thing, and He has not neglected to reveal His stance on such a vital matter as alcohol. Wine and other alcoholic drinks are mentioned throughout the Bible. If these beverages were inherently sinful — or beneficial — the scriptures would plainly state so.
It should be emphasised from the outset that our benevolent Creator does not prohibit the moderate use of alcoholic drinks. This truth is reinforced by Psalm 104:15: “God gave man wine to make him happy, olive oil to make him cheerful, and bread to give him strength.” The Hebrew word translated as wine here is yayin, used 130 times in the Old Testament, and it refers to fermented wine.
The Advanced Learner’s Dictionary defines wine as “an alcoholic drink made from the juice of grapes.” Jesus Himself acknowledged wine; in Matthew 11:19 and Luke 7:34, He said He drank it. At the wedding in Cana, He famously turned water into “the best wine” (John 2:3–10). The Greek word used here, oinos, also refers to fermented wine.
Clearly, God permits enjoyment of alcoholic drinks when consumed moderately and at appropriate times. In Deuteronomy 14:26, God instructed His people to enjoy wine (yayin) during His festivals. Experts in alcohol and drug studies agree: there is nothing wrong with drinking in moderation. They note that alcohol is technically classified as a drug because it alters bodily function, yet in small amounts it can also be considered a food, providing calories and nutrients — especially in beverages like wine and opaque beer.
Health researchers have found that moderate wine consumption offers significant benefits.
“Wine in moderation acts as a natural mild tranquilliser due to its alcohol content, but it is also food — a source of energy — and can be especially suitable for cardiac patients, diabetics and the elderly. Natural dry red wine (12 percent alcohol) is the best therapeutic choice: healthful and economical when consumed in moderation,” said one specialist.
The United States National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses even supports wine with hospital dinners, noting that “patients seem more alert, respond favourably to their environment and seem less introspective.” Their official publication, Bedside Nurse, reports that “the therapeutic advantages of wine are being recognised and used by most physicians and institutions worldwide.”
That said, the dangers of excessive drinking cannot be ignored. Proverbs 23:32 warns: “Do not look at wine when it sparkles in the cup… In the end it bites like a serpent and stings like a viper.” Medical science confirms that heavy drinking poses serious health risks, including cancers, alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis, pancreatitis, stroke and heart failure — sometimes leading to coma or death.
The Bible is unequivocal: God abhors drunkenness. Galatians 5:21 lists it among the works of the flesh, while Ephesians 5:18 cautions: “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery.” Jesus Himself warned against drunkenness in Luke 21:34.
Experience reinforces this truth. Excessive drinking lowers inhibitions, making thoughts and desires that we normally suppress seem acceptable. Our resolve weakens, and we do things we would never do sober. While some people can drink moderately and stop before intoxication, the sad reality is that many — especially today’s delinquent youths — cannot.
During research for this article, I visited Umhambi (Matsotsi) Beer Garden near Entumbane Complex. There, I was shocked to see youths lying motionless on the ground. A security guard explained: “Kudakiwe okungabafana lokhu. Kade kunatha injengu, kubhema lembanje.” (“These youths are drunk. They’ve been drinking ‘njengu’ — an illicit brew — and smoking dagga.”)
Parting point: Most discerning evangelists agree that the safest rule for overcoming over-drinking is to seek guidance from God through His Word — the Holy Bible.
“Many former heavy drinkers have found help by reading and meditating on scripture daily. The Bible’s advice on alcohol comes from our Creator, who wants the best for us. He knows, cares and provides the help we need. If you are entangled in alcoholism and struggling to quit, have faith in the power of frequent, heartfelt prayer. Admit honestly to God that you have a problem. Confession invites His blessing on your efforts to stop,” said Father Alexio Mukaro, a Roman Catholic priest, citing Proverbs 28:13: “He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”
Cuthbert Mavheko is a freelance writer and theologian contactable on 0773963448 and 0775522095.
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