This mitzvah prohibits drinking wine that has been poured as a libation to an idol (yayin nesekh). Such wine was central to idolatrous rituals, and by forbidding it entirely, the Torah creates a strong barrier between Israel and pagan worship. The prohibition extends not only to drinking but also to deriving any form of benefit. In later rabbinic law, restrictions were added to wine handled by idolaters (stam yeinam) to prevent assimilation and safeguard Jewish distinctiveness.

Commentary & Classical Explanation:

• Rambam (Hilchot Ma’achalot Asurot 11:7–9): Rules that yayin nesekh is assur b’hana’ah — completely forbidden, even for selling or gifting.
• Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 111): Explains that the mitzvah instills separation from idolatrous practices and preserves Jewish holiness.
• Talmud (Avodah Zarah 29b–30a): Discusses the severity of this prohibition and the rabbinic safeguards around wine.