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A Christmas Soaked in Vino

by The Winehopper

Christmas has a relation with wine which goes much deeper than mere celebration spirit. The Holy Bible has too many references of wine and wine has become an integral part of many a Christian rituals. As Christmas dawns nearer, The Wine Club looks back at some of them.

The bells have started to ring again. The winter chill is here and with each passing day the aroma of rich plum cakes is getting heavier. If you look around, the city has already started to dawn its special Christmas gear with glinting Christmas trees round the corner. The market place abuzz with last minute Christmas shopping, Christmas carols are being echoed from the speakers atop the church towers. Of course, this is only the beginning of festive season because New Year is due in another two weeks. A lot of preparation is going on to welcome another New Year and most households are embellished with decorations and sheer happiness.

Talk about Christmas and can wine remain far behind? The answer is a big NO. In fact, Christmas has a relation with wine which goes much deeper than mere celebration spirit. Though drunkenness is considered a sin in Christian religion but wine is of course an exception, or it is not treated as hardcore alcohol. May be because of this reason wine has become an integral part of many Christian rituals. Besides there are many myths about wine doing rounds which are equally interesting as the drink itself.

Let’s now have a look at some interesting references of wine found in Bible and Christianity.

Wine in Bible

Wine has been referred in Bible as a bringer and concomitant of joy, particularly in context of nourishment and feasting. Through direct and metaphorical use, wine has been described as a symbol of abundance and physical blessings. Old Testament prescribed its use for sacrificial rites and celebrations. Alcohol was also used for medicinal purposes in biblical times, and it appears in that context in several passages—as an oral anesthetic, a topical cleanser and soother, and a digestive aid.

A typical Sabbath Table

Sabbath

Essentially a Jewish ritual sabbath is also observed by many Christians across the globe. It is a day set apart for God. After six days of indulging in labour and other worldly activities, religious Christians go to Church on Sunday to nil down and pray before God. Initially sabbath was observed on Saturdays. But in 321 CE, Roman emperor Constantine declared that Sunday was to be the day of rest across the Roman Empire. Some Christians also believe sabbath is observed on Sundays to honour the resurrection of Christ, which took place on a Sunday, and that is why Sunday is set aside for Sabbath day. Wine is an important part of Sabbath ritual. The Sabbath table is set with at least two candles (representing the dual commandments to remember and observe the sabbath), a glass of wine, and at least two loaves of challah (a type of loaf). The challah loaves should be whole, and should be covered with a bread cover, towel or napkin.

The Wedding at Cana by Paolo Veronese

Marriage Feast at Cana

The Gospel of John says that the transformation of water into wine at the Marriage at Cana or Wedding at Cana is the first public miracle of Jesus. In that account Jesus and his disciples were invited to a wedding feast. Soon wine run out of stock. To save the loss of face of the host Jesus turned water into wine by performing a miracle.

The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci

Eucharist (The Last Supper)

One of the most important chapters of Bible, bread and wine represent the Lord’s Supper or Communion (Gospel of Luke 22:19). Bread is the symbol of life. At His Last Supper Lord distributed pieces of bread among his disciples and said “This is my body given for you…”. On the other hand wine symbolized Jesus’ blood, poured out as a payment for human sin. He offered the goblet of wine and said, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” Though there have been many variations among believer about how exactly use wine but overall wine is considered a holy drink and during mass bread and wine is offered in the church. Bread and wine are consumed together in fellowship as the family of God.

Wine and full moon have a deep relationship with
Wiccan Spells and Charms

Wine & Good Luck Charms

And if you have thought after reading this far that wine was considered holy only in scriptures, here is another interesting anecdote for you. Wine is considered a powerful Wicca tool and can be used to ward off evil spirits. Many believe that keeping an unopened wine bottle in the house would bring good luck and wealth. In wine-producing areas too, farmers tend to prune their vines and sprinkle them with wine for another year of good harvest.

Looking to bring some fire back in your love life? Try the wine spell. Steep cumin seed in red wine to induce burning passion in your relationship. Or if you are seeking protection from heaven, simply soak beetroot in red wine for a full cycle of the moon to use as a "blood offering" for spells that call for this. Never drink this wine. Place in windows and doorways to keep curses and evil spirits out.

Spilling wine is generally considered a bad omen. However, if it is spilled on purpose is believed to bring good fortune. The breaking of a wine filled glass is typically thought of as a good omen when performed at marriages. A symbol for a happy life, it is believed that this act will lead to unyielding love and affection.

As the Church bell grow louder it’s time to seat back with a glassful of wine and other delicacies. However, when you look at your glass, just remember you are holding a potion infused with great power and a rich religious lineage. Who knows with this magnificent drink in hand you can actually see eight small reindeers roaming outside your door?

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all! Cheers!

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