Religious Significance of Sake in Japan

Abstract

Alcoholic drinks have a long history and it is believed that alcohol has been used since the age of Gods. In all major religions alcohol is used in various rituals and offered to the Gods in various forms. Description of alcohol or liquors can be traced in many religious books. In many civilizations there are specific Gods who are worshiped as the God of alcoholic beverages. Dionysos [1] was worshiped in Greek civilization, while Bacchus[2] and Liber[3] in Roman civilizations. Mbaba Mwana Waresa, a Zulu Goddess, Ninkasi,[4] a Goddess in Sumerian civilization are such mythological figures, who are worshiped as the Gods or Goddess of alcoholic beverages and wine.