Beer seems to be as common a drink in the Old Testament as is wine (Isaiah 24:9), although it was not available in the desert (Deut. 29:6). It was poured as a libation to Yahweh (Numbers 28:7) and was drunk at sacrificial banquets at the sanctuary (Deut. 14:26) It should be noted that the New World Translation calls it "intoxicating liquor" and some translations have "strong drink." But some scholars and some Bibles (like the NIV) translate it "beer," since they feel that the Hebrew word sekar means that rather than distilled spirits.
Of course, not all references to beer are favorable. Its intoxicating qualities are also mentioned (Isaiah 29:9; 28:7) and along with wine it is a beverage of drunkards (Ps. 69:12; Is. 5:11,22; 56:12). It leads to quarrels (Pr. 20:1) and is not the drink of rulers (Pr. 31:4)
Since beer and wine are both mentioned in the Bible as acceptable beverages, why do some religions prohibit its consumption? It seems to me that it is only the abuse of the drink that is condemned. Moderation seems to be the key. Any further thoughts?