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© 1997 Medical Council on Alcohol

article-commentary

WAS THE FETAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME RECOGNIZED IN THE ANCIENT NEAR EAST?

ERNEST L. ABEL

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Fetal Alcohol Research Center, Wayne State University, C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development 275 E Hancock, Detroit, MI 48201, USA

Received 7 June 1996; first review notified 19 August 1996; accepted 20 August 1996

One of the most frequently cited examples of ancient prescience concerning the potential dangers of drinking during pregnancy is the story of Samson in the Biblical Book of Judges. The present article examines the relevant passages from this and other related Biblical texts for indications that the ancient Hebrews were indeed aware of alcohol's potential to harm the fetus. This examination was then broadened to include a survey of later Talmudic literature relating to drinking during pregnancy, and literature from Sumerian, Hittite, and Egyptian cultures contemporary with those found in the Bible. No evidence was found for concern in the ancient Near East about any possible harm.


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