The color blue is often associated with divinity, purity, and peace in the Bible. However, the word “blue” itself is not used frequently in Scripture. This is likely because blue dyes were rare and expensive in ancient times. As a result, explicit references to the color blue are uncommon. That said, there are a few verses that allude to the color blue and its symbolic meaning.
The Old Testament and Blue
In the Old Testament, blue dyes were prized and used for special purposes. Blue thread was used to make tassels on the garments of the high priest (Exodus 28:31, Exodus 39:22). These blue tassels were a reminder of God’s commandments and served as a distinct marker of the priests’ special status. The Israelites were instructed to include blue thread in some of the decorations of the tabernacle as well (Exodus 26:1).
One of the most well-known symbolic uses of blue in the Old Testament is in Numbers 15:37-41. This passage commands the Israelites to wear tassels including a “cord of blue” to remind them of God’s laws. Here, the blue cord set God’s people apart and marked their identity as the people of Yahweh.
While the color may not be directly referenced, the rare beauty of blue dyes evokes a connection to the divine. The precious blue threads speak of God’s splendor and glory.
The New Testament and Blue
In the New Testament, blue dyes were still prized possessions. One possible reference is in Luke 16:19, which describes a rich man wearing purple and fine linen. Fine colored linen in this period was often blue, so the reference likely includes blue garments. Again, the precious blue dye points to luxury, wealth, and the divine.
Some also see a symbolic reference to blue in the description of the sapphire pavement under God’s throne in Revelation 4:6 and the gleaming blue sapphire stone of Revelation 21:19. The radiance and rarity of blue sapphires connect to the glory of God.
While the word “blue” itself is not used, the imagery related to blue conveys symbolic meanings. God’s glory and splendor shine through these references to rare, beautiful blue dyes and gemstones.
The Symbolic Meaning of Blue in the Bible
Though scarce, the references to blue in the Bible carry important symbolic meaning. Blue dyes were expensive and associated with luxury, holiness, and divinity. As a result, blue in the Bible often represents the following:
- God’s glory, splendor, and majesty
- Holiness, purity, and virtue
- Wealth, prosperity, and status
- Identity among God’s chosen people
- Reminders to follow God’s laws
While the color blue is not abundantly referenced, its use in key contexts connects it to preciousness, rarity, and the divine. The blue threads, gemstones, and dyes point from earthly glory to the glory of God.
Conclusion
In summary, while the word “blue” is not used explicitly, there are symbolic references to blue in the Bible. In the Old Testament, blue dyes were used for the priests’ garments and tabernacle decorations as a mark of holiness and a reminder of God’s commandments. In the New Testament, blue garments and gemstones indicated luxury and status while also connecting to God’s glory. Though scarce, blue carries rich theological meaning related to holiness, divinity, splendor, purity, and obedience to God.
So while no single verse talks explicitly about the color blue, the rare and precious blue dyes point to God’s glory and majesty throughout Scripture. The glimpses of blue draw the reader to contemplate the beauty, perfection, and radiance of God.
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