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What is Judaism approach to alcoholism?

Epic Beard Man

Bearded Philosopher
I ask this question considering wine being very much a part of the ceremonial aspects of the Jewish culture, I wanted to know if there was any supplemental religious approach in addressing alcoholism (other than common means like Alcoholics Anonymous)?
 
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Tumah

Veteran Member
I don't think the concept of 'alcoholism' stretches far back enough in time for it to be addressed by religious sources. Drunkenness - with the possible exception of Purim - is frowned upon in religious sources.

The total amount of wine that's drunk as part of religious requirements is: 4-5 ounces three times over the Sabbath and holidays (once at night, once at around noon, once at night), 4-5 ounces 4 times over the first night (and a second time over the second night outside Israel) of Passover, and Purim. It's not even enough to meet the glass-of-red-wine-a-day-is-good-for-you requirements.

It's not strictly necessary to drink wine either. Although it's not as ideal, grape juice is perfectly acceptable for all of those except Purim (in which case, the alternative would be to take a nap during the day). Someone who can't control themselves when it comes to alcohol, could just drink grape juice.
 

Epic Beard Man

Bearded Philosopher
I don't think the concept of 'alcoholism' stretches far back enough in time for it to be addressed by religious sources. Drunkenness - with the possible exception of Purim - is frowned upon in religious sources.

The total amount of wine that's drunk as part of religious requirements is: 4-5 ounces three times over the Sabbath and holidays (once at night, once at around noon, once at night), 4-5 ounces 4 times over the first night (and a second time over the second night outside Israel) of Passover, and Purim. It's not even enough to meet the glass-of-red-wine-a-day-is-good-for-you requirements.

It's not strictly necessary to drink wine either. Although it's not as ideal, grape juice is perfectly acceptable for all of those except Purim (in which case, the alternative would be to take a nap during the day). Someone who can't control themselves when it comes to alcohol, could just drink grape juice.

Interesting. I thought maybe there would be some sort of contextual or rabbinic approach to those who suffer from alcoholism. But thank you
 

Tumah

Veteran Member
Interesting. I thought maybe there would be some sort of contextual or rabbinic approach to those who suffer from alcoholism. But thank you
If alcoholism wasn't an historically recognized concept, why would there be a Rabbinic approach to it? The generally recommended approach to all psychological issues is to see a competent therapist. What else could there be?
 

Epic Beard Man

Bearded Philosopher
If alcoholism wasn't an historically recognized concept, why would there be a Rabbinic approach to it?

I would think at least in the modern context maybe there is some sort of psychological as well as religious approach to addiction.
 

Flankerl

Well-Known Member
In the modern context there is the same answer to this as to all the other medical or psychological problems: Consult a doctor.
 

Jake1001

Computer Simulator
I ask this question considering wine being very much a part of the ceremonial aspects of the Jewish culture, I wanted to know if there was any supplemental religious approach in addressing alcoholism (other than common means like Alcoholics Anonymous)?
Yes, Jews are not as predisposed toward alcoholism, except the ones in this sub-forum .
 
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