Water was the most essential drink, but in the ancient world, beverages were also a source of nourishment and a staple of hospitality. Grapes, pomegranates, and barley were transformed into drinks for both daily life and celebration. This category explores the liquids that quenched thirst and honored guests, from fresh-squeezed fruit juices to the fermented beverages mentioned throughout the Bible. These simple drinks connect you to a land where both water from the well and wine at a feast were cherished gifts.
1. Fresh Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranates were a prized fruit, and their tart juice was a refreshing drink, especially in the hot climate.
- Ingredients: 2-3 pomegranates, water (optional).
- Instructions: Cut the pomegranates in half. In a bowl, use your hands to press out the seeds and juice. Strain the juice to remove any pulp. Dilute with a little water if desired.
2. Diluted Wine
Wine was a common beverage, but it was often diluted with water for daily consumption, making it less potent.
- Ingredients: Wine, water.
- Instructions: Pour a small amount of wine into a cup and add a larger amount of water, typically a ratio of 1 part wine to 3 parts water. Stir and serve.
3. Barley Water
A simple and nourishing drink made by boiling barley. It was a common source of hydration and sustenance.
- Ingredients: 1 cup barley grains, 4 cups water.
- Instructions: Rinse the barley and place it in a pot with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-45 minutes. Strain out the barley and allow the liquid to cool.
4. Drink of Date Syrup
Dates were a source of natural sugar, and their syrup, called “dibs,” was used to sweeten drinks and make them more palatable.
- Ingredients: 1 tablespoon date syrup, 1 cup water.
- Instructions: Stir the date syrup into the water until it is fully dissolved. Serve the drink cool.
5. Grape Must (Fresh Juice)
Before grape juice was fermented into wine, it was enjoyed as a sweet, fresh drink.
- Ingredients: Fresh grapes.
- Instructions: Place fresh grapes in a bowl. Use your hands to crush the grapes and release their juice. Strain the liquid to remove any seeds or pulp. Serve immediately.
6. Spiced Wine
For special occasions, wine was sometimes infused with spices and herbs to create a more flavorful and aromatic drink.
- Ingredients: Wine, herbs such as cinnamon or cloves (traded goods), myrrh.
- Instructions: Gently heat wine in a pot with a small amount of your chosen herbs and spices. Do not boil. Simmer for a short time to infuse the flavors, then strain before serving.
7. Soury Drink (Vinegar and Water)
This refreshing drink was a common way for laborers and travelers to quench their thirst. A mixture of soured wine (vinegar) and water, it was offered to Jesus on the cross (John 19:29).
- Ingredients: Water, soured wine (vinegar).
- Instructions: Mix a small amount of soured wine or vinegar with water to create a slightly acidic and refreshing drink.
8. Fig Leaf Infusion
While the fig fruit was prized, the leaves were also used. A simple tea-like drink could be made by infusing fig leaves.
- Ingredients: A handful of fresh or dried fig leaves, water.
- Instructions: Bring water to a boil. Add the fig leaves and remove from heat. Let the leaves steep for 10-15 minutes, then strain and serve the liquid.