"Bacchus, n.: A convenient deity invented by the ancients as an excuse for getting drunk"

This quote by Ambrose Bierce is a humorous way of pointing out the hypocrisy of the ancient Greeks and Romans. The god Bacchus was the god of wine and revelry, and was often used as an excuse for getting drunk. This quote implies that the ancients used Bacchus as an excuse to indulge in their own vices, while at the same time condemning others for doing the same. It is a reminder that people have been using religion and deities as an excuse for their own behavior since ancient times.

Bierce's quote also serves as a reminder that religion can be used to justify any behavior, no matter how immoral or unethical. It is a reminder that people should be careful not to use religion as an excuse for their own bad behavior. Instead, they should strive to live up to the moral standards set by their faith. Ultimately, this quote serves as a reminder that people should be mindful of how they use religion and deities, and should strive to live up to the moral standards set by their faith.