(Isa. 5:11–13, 22)
This passage indicates revelry and unholy merrymaking among those who spend time in immoral entertainment. It warns all against making strong drink their passion. A passage from the Book of Mormon presents a prophecy that corresponds in some ways to this verse of Isaiah: “There shall be many which shall say: Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die; and it shall be well with us” (2 Nephi 28:7). But these are “false and vain and foolish doctrines” (Isa. 5:9)… . The King James Version of the Bible uses the word “tabret,” which is usually translated “tambourine” in modern English Bibles.
Instruments were used in worship. They were also played at banquets and feasts where merrymakers partook of wine and strong drink and participated in revelries. Apparently, harlots played their harps as they wandered around the city attempting to attract attention (Isa. 23:16).
(Donald W. Parry, Visualizing Isaiah [Provo, Utah: The Foundation for Ancient Research and Mormon Studies, 2001], 46–47.)
The liquor fight is an eternal battle and moves from scene to scene and sin to sin.
There are numerous people who profit financially—some politicians, manufacturers, wholesalers, deliverers, dispensers, and the underworld. Added to that army are the rationalizers who demand their liquor, regardless of harm to others. Do they pray over their work?
The liquor traffic is sacrilege, for it seeks profit from the damnation of human souls.” (Harry Emerson Fosdick.)
Arguments are specious, but to the gullible, unsuspecting, righteous, busy people, they are made to seem plausible. The tax argument, the employment one, the school lunch program, the freedom to do as one pleases—all are like sie ves with many holes. There is just enough truth in them to deceive. Satan deals in half truths.
(Spencer W. Kimball, The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimbal, [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1982], 206–207.)