In biblical literature, the metaphor of "drinking the cup" often symbolizes experiencing God's judgment or wrath. This imagery is prevalent in the prophetic books of the Old Testament, where various nations are depicted as recipients of divine retribution due to their sins and transgressions. The "cup" signifies the portion of suffering or punishment that God has allotted to these nations.

Jeremiah 25:15-29: The prophet Jeremiah is instructed by God to take the "cup of the wine of wrath" and make all the nations to whom God sends him drink from it. This passage lists several nations that are to experience God's judgment:

· Jerusalem and the cities of Judah: As the starting point, God's own people are not exempt from judgment due to their idolatry and disobedience.
· Egypt: Known for its historical enmity with Israel, Egypt is included as a recipient of divine wrath.
· Uz: The homeland of Job, representing regions beyond Israel's immediate neighbors.
· Philistia: Longtime adversaries of Israel, the Philistines are also subject to judgment.
· Edom, Moab, and Ammon: These nations, often hostile to Israel, are frequently mentioned in prophetic oracles of judgment.
· Tyre and Sidon: Prominent Phoenician cities known for their wealth and pride.
· Dedan, Tema, and Buz: Tribes and regions in Arabia, indicating the widespread nature of God's judgment.
· Elam and Media: Nations east of Babylon, highlighting the comprehensive scope of divine retribution.
· Babylon: Although used as an instrument of judgment against Judah, Babylon itself is not immune to God's wrath.

Isaiah 51:17-23: The imagery of the cup is also used in Isaiah, where Jerusalem is depicted as having drunk from the "cup of His wrath." The passage speaks of a reversal where God will take the cup from Jerusalem and give it to her tormentors, indicating a future restoration for God's people and judgment on their oppressors.

Ezekiel 23:31-34: In this passage, the cup symbolizes the judgment that will come upon Samaria and Jerusalem for their unfaithfulness. The cup is described as deep and large, filled with ruin and desolation, underscoring the severity of the punishment.

Habakkuk 2:16: The prophet Habakkuk speaks against Babylon, declaring that they will be filled with shame instead of glory. The "cup in the LORD's right hand" will come around to them, signifying that Babylon will also face divine judgment.

Revelation 14:9-10: In the New Testament, the imagery of the cup is extended to the eschatological judgment. Those who worship the beast and its image will drink the "wine of God's wrath," poured full strength into the cup of His anger.

The concept of nations drinking the cup of God's wrath serves as a powerful reminder of divine justice and the consequences of sin. It underscores the biblical theme that no nation, regardless of its power or prominence, is beyond the reach of God's righteous judgment.