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The account of Noah drinking wine and becoming intoxicated, recorded in Genesis 9:20-21, introduces one of the earliest mentions of post-Flood human behavior and its consequences. This passage offers critical insights into human frailty, the ethical implications of behavior, and the theological lessons that arise from this incident. While some have debated the moral culpability of Noah in this situation, the account presents a nuanced portrayal of the event, highlighting its role in the broader context of Genesis.

The Context of Noah’s Intoxication

The account in Genesis 9:20-21 states:
“Noah began to be a man of the soil, and he planted a vineyard. He drank of the wine and became drunk and lay uncovered in his tent.” This marks the first explicit mention of wine (Hebrew: יַיִן yayin) in Scripture and provides a glimpse into human behavior in the post-Flood world. After the cataclysmic destruction of the Flood, Noah began his life anew as a farmer, cultivating the soil and planting a vineyard. The text then reveals that Noah drank the wine produced, became intoxicated, and lay exposed in his tent.

Noah’s Role and the Nature of the Incident

It is important to recognize that Noah’s intoxication is not presented as a habitual sin or evidence of moral depravity. The Scriptures consistently uphold Noah as a “righteous man” and one who “walked with God” (Genesis 6:9). The emphasis on Noah’s righteousness is further highlighted in 2 Peter 2:5, which refers to him as “a preacher of righteousness.” Consequently, the incident recorded in Genesis 9:21 is not indicative of a pattern of drunkenness but rather an isolated and regrettable lapse in judgment.

Some commentators have suggested that Noah, unfamiliar with the process of fermentation, may have inadvertently consumed an intoxicating amount of wine. However, the pre-Flood references to “eating and drinking” in Matthew 24:38 imply that alcoholic beverages were likely known and consumed prior to this event. Thus, Noah would have been aware of the potential effects of wine. Whether his actions were unintentional or the result of deliberate indulgence, the account remains a candid portrayal of human weakness.

The Theological Implications of Noah’s Intoxication

The Bible’s unflinching honesty in recording the failures of even its most righteous figures underscores a vital theological principle: the inherent imperfection of humanity. Noah’s actions serve as a reminder that no individual, no matter how faithful, is immune to error. As Ecclesiastes 7:20 affirms, “Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins.”

Furthermore, the event illustrates the potential dangers of alcohol when consumed irresponsibly. Although wine is often associated with celebration and blessings in Scripture (e.g., Psalm 104:15; Proverbs 3:10), it is also acknowledged as a substance that can lead to moral and spiritual ruin when abused (Proverbs 20:1; 23:29-35). Noah’s intoxication and subsequent exposure highlight the vulnerability of human dignity and the consequences that can arise from a lack of self-control.

The Consequences of the Incident

The narrative of Noah’s drunkenness is directly linked to the subsequent actions of his son, Ham, and the resulting curse upon Ham’s son, Canaan. Genesis 9:22 states, “Ham, the father of Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father and told his two brothers outside.” The specific nature of Ham’s actions has been widely debated, with interpretations ranging from voyeurism to some form of sexual impropriety. Regardless of the precise details, Ham’s actions are portrayed as dishonorable and indicative of a lack of respect for his father.

In contrast, Shem and Japheth responded with dignity and reverence, covering their father’s nakedness without looking upon him (Genesis 9:23). Their actions demonstrate the importance of honoring one’s parents and preserving family honor, a principle later codified in the Ten Commandments: “Honor your father and your mother” (Exodus 20:12). Noah’s prophetic curse upon Canaan, Ham’s youngest son, reflects the generational consequences of sin and serves as a warning about the lasting impact of dishonor and disrespect.

The Broader Significance in the Genesis Narrative

The inclusion of this account within the Genesis narrative serves multiple purposes. First, it provides a realistic portrayal of post-Flood humanity, emphasizing that the Flood did not eradicate sin but merely provided a new beginning. Human nature, still subject to the effects of the Fall, continues to manifest weakness and moral failings. This underscores the necessity of Jehovah’s ongoing work in redeeming humanity and points to the eventual fulfillment of His redemptive plan through the seed promised in Genesis 3:15.

Second, the account establishes a pattern of prophetic declarations and their fulfillment. Noah’s curse upon Canaan and the blessings pronounced upon Shem and Japheth reflect Jehovah’s sovereign control over human history and His ability to bring about His purposes despite human failings. The eventual subjugation of the Canaanites by the Israelites, descendants of Shem, and their later domination by Japhethic powers, such as Greece and Rome, testify to the accuracy of Noah’s prophecy and the unfolding of Jehovah’s plan.

Lessons for Today

The account of Noah’s intoxication offers valuable lessons for readers today. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of indulgence and the importance of self-control. While the Bible does not prohibit the consumption of alcohol, it consistently warns against its abuse and the potential for harm (Ephesians 5:18). Noah’s lapse highlights the need for vigilance and accountability in maintaining moral integrity.

Additionally, the contrasting responses of Ham and his brothers underscore the importance of respect, honor, and the protection of human dignity. In a world where sin and dishonor are prevalent, believers are called to uphold righteousness and extend grace to others, following the example of Shem and Japheth in covering rather than exposing the faults of others.

Conclusion

The account of Noah drinking wine in Genesis 9:21 is a poignant reminder of the complexities of human nature and the enduring consequences of sin. While Noah’s actions reflect human vulnerability, the narrative ultimately points to Jehovah’s sovereignty and the fulfillment of His purposes. Through this account, Scripture offers timeless lessons on the dangers of indulgence, the importance of honor and respect, and the need for humility and reliance on Jehovah in the face of human weakness.

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).