Vineyards of the Old Testament - Nanette M. Holloway

Vineyards of the Old Testament are prolific and mentioned in the New Testament as well.

Grape production was and remains a major agricultural commodity for the nation of Israel. Grape production is necessary for the food supply and in the winemaking industry. This sustainable crop was often a symbol of status and wealth. One example includes King Solomon, when he traded 20,000 bottles of wine among other things for timber from Lebanon in the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem.

The first mention of the cultivation of a vineyard is by Noah in Genesis 9:20. Noah planted a vineyard and made wine.

Then in Deuteronomy several guidelines are given regarding vineyard care and the importance of leaving some of the grapes in the field for the poor and those passing through. And if a man planted a vineyard, he did not have to go to war until he took care of his first harvest.

“Has anyone here just planted a vineyard but not yet eaten any of its fruit? If so, you may go home! You might die in battle, and someone else would eat the first fruit” (Deuteronomy 26:20 NLT).

The Song of the Vineyard

In Isaiah, the prophet compares Israel to a planted vineyard. Although God cared for and nurtured the vines, the fruit was bitter. Certainly, the grower would be gravely disappointed. This love song is God’s passion for Israel, yet the object of His love did not respond to His constant care and devotion. Israel, particularly the leaders, rebelled against God, and God allowed the vineyard to be trampled down.

Isaiah’s prophecy of judgement would come to pass.

“And in Isaiah, Israel is compared to a vineyard. Now I will sing for the one I love a song about his vineyard: My beloved had a vineyard on a rich and fertile hill. He plowed the land, cleared its stones, and planted it with the best vines. In the middle he built a watchtower and carved a winepress in the nearby rocks. Then he waited for a harvest of sweet grapes, but the grapes that grew were bitter” (Isaiah 5:1-2 NLT).

But Isaiah also brought hope for the nation as they once again return to God. In His loving grace He redeems all that Israel lost.

“In those days people will live in the houses they build and eat the fruit of their own vineyards. Unlike the past, invaders will not take their houses and confiscate their vineyards. For my people will live as long as trees, and my chosen ones will have time to enjoy their hard-won gains” (Isaiah 65:21-22 NLT).

We Serve an Awesome God

We serve an awesome God who is willing to care for us and all of our needs. Especially when we respond to Him with love, adoration, praise and service. Through His loving kindness and care we are empowered to produce a harvest of sweet fruit to His glory.