Vow of the Nazarite (Leviticus, bless)

[john313]

thanks, i got a good answer on another site that makes perfect sense:

In those days the alcohol content of these items was variant due to often being stored for long periods of time in manners that allowed fermentation. Later hypocrites - like Samson before his redemption - tried to get around this by fermenting non-traditional substances like milk. But by the time of Jesus grape juice (yayin mazug) was permitted and drank by N'zirim.

it looks like some people tried to find ways around the no alcohol thing by fermenting grapes and raisins and then eating them instead of making wine. the ban on grapes and raisins could be something that would not necessarily apply, in my opinion anyway, if one has no intention of eating "aged" fruit of the vine.
i had been meaning to find the answer for a while now as i have taken the vow to not eat meat and not consume alcohol or cut my hair, but i continued to eat grapes and raisins because i did not understand why i should not eat them since they are nutritious and a very good energy food.

[lionofjudah4iver]

What made you decide to take the vow?
Bless

[john313]

to become closer to God.
i have found that since i stopped eating meat and most pollutants in food that my mind is much more clear. i am much more open spiritually, especially during meditation. I have seen firsthand that it can bring one closer to God.

[lionofjudah4iver]

Seen. I would say that is the reason many Rasta take the vow also but I can't speak for all Rastas so ill say that is why I would take the vow.
Bless