Whiskey's Journey from 'Demon Drink' to 'Feminine Spirit'
Whiskey's reputation is closely tied to Irish witchcraft, with a history that spans from being a cure-all to being known as the devil's drink.
According to Shamim de Brún, the origin of distilled liquor is steeped in feminine mystique, with Maria Hebraea (Mary the Jewess) credited as the inventor of distillation.
Whiskey or uisce beatha, which translates to 'the water of life', was seen as mystical alchemy.
Medieval chemists viewed distillation as a spiritual act, and the connection between whiskey and witches was rooted in the idea that a woman who could make a drink was "clearly communing with the devil".
The history of whiskey is complex, with Irish women playing a significant role in its development and perception.
Author's summary: Whiskey's history is tied to Irish witchcraft and feminine mystique.
- Maria Hebraea is credited with inventing distillation.
- Whiskey was seen as mystical alchemy in medieval times.
- Medieval chemists viewed distillation as a spiritual act.
IMAGE Magazine — 2025-10-21