Pairings: The Bible and Booze

by Matthew R. Anderson

In each of ten chapters, Anderson, a biblical scholar, "pairs" a specific alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink with a text from the Bible, in order to teach something about the history of both.

111 pages, Unknown Binding

Published September 1, 2021

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author by this name in the Goodreads database.

Reviews

[Gary Kirchner · Rating 5 out of 5]

A unique way to study the Bible, to say the least! Pairings is a pleasant read, consistently entertaining, and certain to engage readers of any background. Mildly curious about the Bible? A devoted veteran of decades of Bible study? This book will appeal to both of you.

Don’t let the title suggest that Pairings: The Bible and Booze is frivolous or ‘Bible-Lite.’ There is some serious scholarship here, and the author unapologetically challenges some common misconceptions that are prevalent in Christian circles. A strong thread of social justice runs through the ten chapters. But all is presented in a most unthreatening manner. The reader is not lectured to, nor made to feel uncomfortable or alienated. Quite the contrary.

Each chapter invites the reader to enjoy a beverage with the author – both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are proposed; this reviewer stuck strictly with the non-alcoholic offerings – and the drink is ‘paired’ with a particular reading from the Bible. The connections he makes are both elucidating and surprising, and, just as importantly for the reader, unfettered from ‘religious dogma.’ A brief and useful list of references for further reading is also presented.

Anderson refers to his book as a ‘sampler,’ and that is what it is. I enjoyed the samples I was given, and now I would like more. I do hope the author will follow this book up with more ‘pairings.’

I recommend this book to any curious individual, Christian or not (I would be most interested in the reaction of the latter!), and I think it would make an excellent text for a Bible Study group.

Gary J Kirchner

[M.J. Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a book read by the Theology on Tap group to which I belong. We read and discussed only one chapter a week because there was a specific drink (the reader could choose alcoholic or non-alcoholic, or both) to go with each chapter. We also had to take three various weeks off because of holidays and obligations, so it took us much longer to read than one would think necessary.

I say this because it's a small book but it can generate a great deal of discussion. The history of alcohol, sugar, chocolate, women, immigrants, were all juxtaposed with sections of the Bible that are frequently unread.

Pairings can open doors and take you on a journey. It can also supply questions that make you want to search for answers. It is written from a social justice perspective and encourages Jewish/Christian dialogue and brainstorming. At the same time, it is meant to be read with your feet up, your fire going and a nice drink at hand.

The only caveat I have about this book is to be sure there is someone else in your circle who is also reading it, and with whom you can discuss it. This is a book that generates ideas.

[Heartz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an interesting little book. I really enjoyed learning more about various scripture passages and how the author connected them to different alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks. It is a fun book to go through with some friends while enjoying the pairings. Definitely recommend!