THEOSISEphraem the Syrian
The Nazorean, who was instructed to abstain from wine and sackcloth throughout his period of consecration, symbolizes the Jewish people, to whom the lawgiver mandated a refusal of Egyptian customs, much like the rejection of wine itself, and to avoid sackcloth, signifying a disassociation from the Canaanites. Wine represents the teachings of the Egyptians, while shekar reflects the beliefs of the Canaanites; the intoxicating influence of both embodies the evil practices of the Egyptians. Fresh and dried grapes illustrate the actions of the Egyptians and Canaanites, with bones and shells symbolizing the remnants of their malevolence.
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From another perspective—let no one consume wine or strong drink, meaning that one should refrain from allowing their flesh to be dominated by desires, nor their spirit to be disturbed by unwholesome thoughts. Furthermore, the law that prohibits the consumption of grapes signifies the necessity of eliminating every bud of sinful passions, while the restriction against bones and shells underscores the importance of attending to even the smallest matters.