Ancient Alcohol Use And Changing Opinions Throughout History

Alcohol and alcohol abuse are not just modern issues. Since the beginning of time people have been using alcohol for medicinal and celebratory purposes. Ancient records tell tales for inebriated rulers and festivals devoted to alcohol rich deities. From the ancient Sumerians to the Romans alcohol has been an age old beverage of contention. This is perhaps why today those suffering from an excessive alcohol consumption problem must seek help at alcohol detox centers and rehab alike.

Ancient Records

Ancient murals devoted to rulers and deities depict elaborate wine jugs. The Discovery of Neolithic fermented beverage containers are also evidence that alcohol consumption is not a modern plague. The worship of such deities as Osiris and Dionysius was also prevalent throughout ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

Moderation

Alcohol has widely been used in secular and religious functions throughout history. Even with such popular consumption the topic of moderation was addressed. In ancient Egypt the importance of moderation was known, a sentiment that society tries to instill today. In ancient Egypt they didn’t feel that there was anything necessarily wrong with intoxication, but did warn against taverns and disproportionate drinking. These views although steadfast in Egypt perhaps, shifted considerably in the Greek and Roman venues. At the end of the day, the only way to beat alcohol addiction is with alcohol detox.

Religious Rituals

From Neolithic practices to practices today wine and alcohol are featured in religious rites. The wine gods and goddesses of the ancient times were widely celebrated in festivals such as Bacchanalia. These practices can still be found today. Modern pagan practices celebrate rituals with the eating of bread and drinking of ale. Some sects of Christianity offer wine at their rites as well.

Drunkenness

Although early ancient believes regarding alcohol consumption stressed the idea of moderation and temperance, the Greeks and Romans along with Macedonians blatantly accepted intemperance. There were many followers of the cult of Dionysius who was the god of wine. Wine was viewed as a blessing from the God and was celebrated vehemently.

Drinking Games Aren’t New

If people truly believe that modern day college students should be accredited with the invention of drinking games, then they are sadly mistaken. The ancient Romans had their own versions of beer pong and drinking games. A common game involved consuming as many cups of alcohol as possible depending on the role of a die.

Shifting Ideals

The ancient Sumerians to the Romans had ideas regarding alcohol. These ideas widely varied depending on who was in charge at the time. Some historical heroes were honored for their moderation in regards to alcohol consumption while others were memorialized for their drunken ruling styles. Even as Christianity slowly invaded alcohol and wine continued to be used in rituals and festivals.

So, alcoholism is not mentioned in ancient records, although it can be implied. This is why alcohol detox centers and rehab centers are around today, to help those who suffer in excess and to help them re-enter society.

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