The Bible does not forbid drinking alcohol but strongly warns against drunkenness and excessive drinking. Moderate consumption is portrayed in some passages as permissible and even enjoyable, but drunkenness is condemned as sinful and harmful.

Biblical View on Drinking Alcohol

• The Bible acknowledges alcohol as a part of life and sometimes a blessing, as in Psalm 104:15 where wine is said to "gladden human hearts" and Ecclesiastes 9:7 encouraging joyful drinking.

• Jesus himself drank wine and was accused of being a drunkard by his critics, showing that drinking per se is not sinful (Luke 7:33-34, John 2:1-11).

Warnings Against Drunkenness

• Major warnings are given against drunkenness, which leads to loss of self-control, immorality, and many problems (Ephesians 5:18, Proverbs 20:1, Isaiah 5:11, 28:7).

• Drunkenness is portrayed as belonging to darkness and leads to serious consequences (1 Thessalonians 5:6-7, Romans 13:13, Galatians 5:21).

• Christians are instructed not to be mastered by alcohol or anything else (1 Corinthians 6:12) and to avoid behavior that could hurt their witness or lead others into sin (Romans 14:21, 1 Corinthians 8:9-13).

Moderation and Self-Control

• Drinking alcohol in moderation and with self-control is permissible, but excess and addiction are clearly condemned.

• The Nazirite vow required total abstinence from wine and strong drink (Numbers 6:3-4), but this was a special case, not a general command for all believers.

In summary, the Bible permits responsible drinking but strictly forbids drunkenness and addiction, urging believers to exercise moderation, self- control, and consideration for others.

All references refer to Bible passages and theological interpretations from the cited sources.