Do Ultra Orthodox Jews Drink Wine? An Insight into Their Drinking Practices

Ultra Orthodox Jews, also known as Hassidic Jews, have a unique and deeply meaningful relationship with wine. This connection is not just about the beverage itself but also about its spiritual and cultural significance within their communities. Let's explore the nuances and practices surrounding wine consumption among Ultra Orthodox Jews.

Strict Kosher Certification and Purim

Ultra Orthodox Jews do consume wine, but with a heightened degree of scrutiny over its kosher certification. Unlike other kosher items, wine requires a more rigorous certification process to ensure its purity. This is particularly true for festivals and special occasions, where the quality and certification of the wine are of utmost importance. During the holiday of Purim, one is obligated to drink until they cannot differentiate between 'curse Haman' and 'bless Mordecai.' The origin of this tradition is linked to the story of Purim, where rows of wine led to king Achashverosh's revelry. Noted Hassidic rabbi and family patriarch, my grandfather, used to partake in this tradition with a fervent enthusiasm, often concluding by dancing on the table with joyous abandon.

Gender and Wine Consumption

Wine consumption is generally reserved for men in Ultra Orthodox communities. Women are less likely to partake in this tradition, reflecting broader cultural and societal norms. Even among men, many opt for grape juice as an alternative to wine. This preference is understandable, given the potential for overindulgence, although some groups like the Lubavitch do allow a reasonable quantity, not exceeding four drinks.

Special Blessings and Routines

The consumption of wine carries its own special blessing, set apart from other beverages. This is because wine is considered qualitatively different from its constituent parts (grapes), necessitating a dedicated prayer. Interestingly, while apple juice is also made from apples, it does not require a separate blessing, highlighting the unique status of wine in Jewish tradition. On the Sabbath, wine is consumed at the dinner table with a specific blessing, setting the tone for the special day.

Alternative Options and Special Holidays

For those who cannot tolerate alcohol or grapes, alternatives abound. Some may opt to make the evening Qiddush (blessing) on bread or the daytime Qiddush on coffee. In cases where alcohol is not an option, one can seek guidance from their rabbi for alternative solutions. During festivals like Passover, it is customary to consume wine until one becomes slightly intoxicated, which is part of the ritual to commemorate the Exodus from Egypt.

Traditional Misconceptions and Other Practices

Beyond wine consumption, Ultra Orthodox Jews maintain a rich cultural fabric that extends beyond religious practices. For example, the average family size in these communities is often larger, which can be attributed to a variety of factors, including cultural and religious values. An anecdote from my personal experience illustrates this point: when I painted a portrait of an Orthodox couple's children, it revealed the blend of diverse backgrounds within the community. The husband, who was Catholic, and the wife, who was Hassidic, settled on Orthodox as a compromise for their family. The husband also shared with me that he had consulted his rabbi about the permissibility of marijuana, which led to his conclusion that it was permissible as long as it was not specifically outlawed in the Bible.

Whimsical and profound, the Ultra Orthodox Jewish community is a fascinating and multifaceted one, rich in tradition and deeply rooted in their rich cultural heritage. Through their complex relationship with wine and other customs, they continue to honor age-old traditions while navigating the ever-evolving landscape of modern society.