CHALICE / CUP
The concept of the “cup” or “chalice” in the Bible is rich with symbolic meaning, representing both blessings and sufferings, and it holds significant theological implications for Christians.
The ‘drinking cup’ has special meaning in the Bible. Just like many people have their special cup at home for regular use, some Biblical characters had the same. Pharaoh had his own cup and a personal cupbearer. Joseph, the second in command of Pharaoh, had a silver cup, and he used it to play a trick on his brothers. As for Jesus, he used the term ‘cup’ in a spiritual sense to signify his passion, death, and resurrection.
Cup also signified the wine that it contained because the cup was to hold the wine in it. So, when Jesus said, “Can you drink the cup?” the meaning was, could they drink its contents? Sharing one cup of wine between the groom and bride was a Hebrew custom in betrothal ceremonies. When the groom offered the wine and bride drank from it, she was agreeing to share all the joys and hardships of his life. Jesus was asking them whether they were ready to share in his sufferings.
THE CUP IN THE BIBLE
Positive Connotations
In the Bible, the cup often symbolizes the blessings and provisions of God. For instance, in Psalm 23:5, the psalmist declares, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows,” signifying abundance and divine favor. Similarly, Psalm 16:5 states, “The Lord is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot,” indicating God’s provision and sustenance in one’s life.
The cup also represents a thank-offering to God. In Psalm 116:13, the psalmist says, “I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord,” expressing gratitude and acknowledgment of God’s saving acts. In the context of worship, the cup becomes a symbol of thanksgiving and celebration of God’s goodness.
Negative Connotations
Conversely, the cup can also symbolize suffering and divine judgment. Jesus’ use of the term “cup” in the Garden of Gethsemane is a poignant example. In Matthew 26:39, Jesus prays, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will,” referring to the impending suffering and crucifixion He was to endure. This “cup” represents the weight of humanity’s sins and the suffering He would bear on their behalf.
The prophets also used the imagery of the cup to convey God’s wrath and judgment. For example, in Jeremiah 25:15-16, God instructs the prophet to make the nations drink the “cup of the wine of wrath,” symbolizing the divine judgment that would befall them. Similarly, in Isaiah 51:17, Jerusalem is depicted as having drunk from the “cup of His wrath,” indicating the severe consequences of their disobedience.
CULTURAL AND LITURGICAL SIGNIFICANCE
In Hebrew tradition, sharing a cup of wine during betrothal was a significant act. When the groom offered the cup to the bride and she drank from it, she was symbolically agreeing to share in all aspects of his life, both joys and hardships. This tradition underscores the cup’s role as a symbol of commitment and shared destiny.
In Christian liturgy, the cup holds profound significance during the Eucharistic celebration. Jesus instituted the Eucharist at the Last Supper, where He took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to His disciples, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Mt 26:27-28). This act established the new covenant, and the cup became a symbol of Jesus’ sacrificial love and the salvation He offers.
THE CUP OF PHARAOH
The story of Pharaoh’s cupbearer and Joseph in the book of Genesis (Gen 40) provides a vivid illustration of the symbolic power of the cup.
The Dreams
While in prison, Joseph interprets the dreams of Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker. The cupbearer’s dream features a vine with three branches that budded, blossomed, and produced clusters of ripe grapes. The cupbearer took the grapes, squeezed them into Pharaoh’s cup, and put the cup in Pharaoh’s hand. Joseph explains that within three days, Pharaoh will restore the cupbearer to his position, and he will once again place Pharaoh’s cup in his hand, symbolizing restoration and service.
The Fulfillment
As Joseph predicted, the cupbearer is restored to his position, highlighting the cup as a symbol of Pharaoh’s favor and the cupbearer’s reinstated role in service to the king. This story illustrates the cup’s symbolism in terms of authority, restoration, and the fulfillment of God’s providence.
JOSEPH’S SILVER CUP
Joseph’s own favorite cup appears later in Genesis when he tests his brothers. He instructs his steward to hide his silver cup in Benjamin’s sack (Gen 44:1-2). When the cup is found, Joseph’s brothers fear divine retribution and are brought back to Joseph. This silver cup symbolizes Joseph’s authority and serves as a test of his brothers’ integrity and loyalty, ultimately leading to their reconciliation.
REFLECTION
The dual symbolism of the cup in the Bible offers a powerful message for Christians. It reminds us that life is a blend of blessings and challenges, both of which are part of God’s plan for us. When we partake in the Eucharist, we are not only receiving the grace and strength that come from Christ’s sacrifice but also committing ourselves to follow His example of selfless love and service.
James and John, the sons of Zebedee, were asked by Jesus if they could “drink the cup” He was to drink (Mt 20:22). Their affirmative response and subsequent lives of service and martyrdom illustrate the call to discipleship that involves both sharing in Christ’s sufferings and participating in His mission.
As Christians, when we drink from the cup during the Eucharist, we are reminded of our call to live out our faith in tangible ways. We are called to serve others, bear witness to the Gospel, and endure hardships with the hope of eternal life. The cup, therefore, becomes a symbol of our commitment to live as Christ did, embracing both the joys and the sacrifices that come with following Him.
In conclusion, the cup in the Bible is a profound symbol that encapsulates the essence of the Christian journey. It calls us to recognize God’s blessings, endure life’s challenges with faith, and commit ourselves to a life of sacrificial love and service, just as Jesus did. As we contemplate the symbolism of the cup, let it inspire us to live out our faith with renewed dedication. Let us remember that the blessings and challenges we face are opportunities to grow closer to God and to reflect His love in the world. Through our participation in the Eucharist, we are continually strengthened to embrace our Christian calling and to share in the mission of Christ with courage and compassion.