Miracle Foods of the Bible: Grapes and Wine

Wine is referenced over 200 times in The Bible. Certainly, there is scripture that warns against taking too much wine or becoming addicted to it, or misusing it. God didn't intend for people to get drunk or behave irresponsibly. However, scripture would lead us to believe that wine, in moderation, was acceptable. As his first miracle at a wedding, Jesus turned water into wine (John 2:1-11). Recent studies have shown wine's beneficial properties regarding heart health as well as the beneficial bioflavonoids contained therein. It only stands to reason that people in Biblical days consumed wine, as there was no refrigeration, and grape juice would ferment quickly. It is assumed that people consumed a much weaker wine than we are used to drinking today. However, it has to be said that there are conflicting scriptures regarding consumption of wine. Christians must pray and become at peace with the choice to consume wine in moderation or choose to abstain.

If a Christian chooses to abstain from wine, a Biblical miracle food can also be found in the grape. Here are some references from The Bible:

Genesis 9:20 Noah, a man of the soil, proceeded to plant a vineyard.

Isaiah 62:8-9 The Lord has sworn by his right hand and by his mighty arm: "Never again will I give your grain as food for your enemies, and never again will foreigners drink the new wine for which you have toiled; but those who harvest it will eat it and praise the Lord, and those who gather the grapes will drink it in the courts of my sanctuary."

1 Timothy 5:23 Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.

Grapes are definitely one of God's miracle foods. They are sweet, satisfying, and require no preparation. Additionally, dark red or purple grapes are full of beneficial antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Also, they contain a high water content, so they provide wonderful hydration. The sap of the grapevine was historically used to treat a myriad of illness, including treatment for infections of the eye. Grape leaves were also used as a remedy for hemorrhoids. The extract of the grape seed is being studied for its benefit of the treatment of wounds, tooth decay, osteoporosis, skin cancer and sun damage and heart disease.

Grapes and wine are frequently mentioned in The Bible. They are used as examples of bounty, and in the way of warnings of sour grapes and vineyards which don't produce. Clearly, the grape was an important part of Biblical reference. Whether consumed in its natural or fermented form, it offers tremendous benefits of health and healing. They are yet another of God's gifts.