Drink, strong

(Heb. shekar’), an intoxicating liquor (Judg. 13:4; Luke 1:15; Isa. 5:11; Micah 2:11) distilled from corn, honey, or dates. The effects of the use of strong drink are referred to in Ps. 107:27; Isa. 24:20; 49:26; 51:17-22. Its use prohibited, Prov. 20:1. (See WINE.)

The Hebrew term shecar, in its etymological sense, applies to any beverage that had intoxicating qualities. With regard to the application of the term in later times we have the explicit statement of Jerome, as well as other sources of information, from which we may state the that following beverages were known to the Jews:—

DRINK, STRONG. The use of strong drink, even to excess, was not uncommon among the Israelites. This is inferred from the striking figures by which the use and effects of it are described, Ps 107:27; Isa 24:20; Isa 49:26; Isa 51:17-22, and also from various express prohibitions and penalties. Prov 20:1; Isa 5:11. A variety of intoxicating drinks are comprised under the term. Isa 28:7. Although the Bible sheds little light upon the nature of the mixtures described, it doubtless alludes to drink brewed from grain or made of honeycombs, dates, or boiled fruits, and the beer of Egypt. Date-wine was in great request among the Parthians, Indians, and other Orientals, and is said by Xenophon to have produced severe headaches. The Jews carefully strained their wine and other beverages, from fear of violating Lev 11:20, Heb 12:23, Lev 11:41-42, as do now the Buddhists in Ceylon and Hindostan. This fact explains our Lord's remark to the Pharisees in Matt 23:24: "Ye blind guides, who strain out " (not at)" a gnat and swallow a camel." See Wine, Vinegar.