What does blue symbolize in the Bible? (Symbolism and Meaning)?

During our weekly Bible study, we delved into the symbolism in the Bible, specifically the use of color to convey various meanings. Among the colors that intrigued us, after conducting extensive research, was blue, which had been contemplated by both believers and non-believers. Therefore, the question that arose was, “What does blue symbolize in the Bible?”

In this article, I invite you to join me as we delve into this topic and discover what the color blue means in the Bible. Additionally, to find out how many times the blue color has been mentioned in the Bible, its spiritual significance, and what it means to dream about it, continue reading.

Is the color blue mentioned in the Bible?

Yes, the color blue and its various shades have been mentioned severally throughout the Bible. One of the most popular references to the color blue in the Bible is in Exodus 39:1-7, where the Lord instructs Moses to make a special garment for Aaron, the high priest. This garment was to be made of blue, purple, and scarlet yarn and was to be adorned with gold bells and pomegranates.

Another reference to the color blue can be found in Numbers 15:38-39, where the Lord instructs the Israelites to make tassels for the corners of their garments. These tassels were to be made of blue thread and were intended as a reminder for the people to obey God’s commandments.

Also, according to most theologians, the use of the word “heaven” in the Bible is often described as being blue or of a blue-like color. Similarly, the ocean and the sky are often described in the Bible in ways that could be interpreted as referring to the color blue.

How many times is the color blue mentioned in the Bible?

The exact number of times the color blue is mentioned in the Bible varies depending on the Bible version in question. In the King James Bible version, blue is mentioned 49 times, while in the NIV bible, this color is mentioned 50 times. Most of these references are typically found in the Old Testament, and according to most scholars, the color blue symbolizes different meanings throughout these references. However, it’s worth noting that the number of times the color blue is mentioned in the Bible isn’t necessarily indicative of its significance or importance; rather, it’s the symbolism and meaning associated with the color that holds theological significance.

What is the biblical significance of the color blue in the Bible?

The color blue represents several important themes, including the divine nature of God, the heavenly realm, and the power of God. For instance, according to most Theologians, the use of blue in the high priest’s garment in Exodus was intended to symbolize the divine nature of God and His presence among His people. Also, from a theological perspective, the color blue is significant biblically as it has been associated with a variety of crucial meanings like purity, holiness, and truth, and its use in the Bible reflects a deep understanding of the importance of color symbolism and its ability to convey profound theological truths.

5 symbolic meanings of the color blue in the Bible

The color blue is used in various ways throughout the Bible and has been associated with several symbolic meanings. Here are five profound symbolic meanings of the color blue in the Bible:

Divine nature of God

The color blue is often associated with the divine nature of God, as suggested in Exodus 24:10. Lapis lazuli, mentioned in this verse, is a precious stone that’s a deep blue color and was associated with royalty and divinity in ancient times. Therefore, the use of the color blue in this verse symbolizes God’s divine nature and authority.

Heavenly realm

The color blue is also associated with the heavenly realm, as suggested in Revelation 21:19-20. The stone “turquoise” mentioned in this passage is often translated as “chalcedony” in some versions of the Bible and is a sky-blue color. In this context, the use of this stone in the description of the foundations of the city walls symbolizes the heavenly realm and its beauty.

Holiness

The color blue is also associated with holiness in the Bible, as suggested in Exodus 28:31-33. This verse implies that the robe of the ephod worn by the high priest had the color blue in it to symbolize the holiness and purity required of the high priest and the people of Israel.

Obedience to God’s commands

The color blue is also associated with obedience to God’s commands, as suggested in Numbers 15:38-39. The blue cord on the tassels of the Israelites’ garments served as a reminder to them to obey God’s commands and avoid sin.

Healing and restoration

Finally, the color blue is associated with healing and restoration in the Bible, as speculated in Ezekiel 1:26, where the use of the lapis lazuli stone to describe God’s throne symbolizes his healing and restorative power, as well as His ability to reign in power and authority.

Spiritual meaning of the color blue

The color blue holds several significant spiritual meanings across various cultures and belief systems. One of the primary spiritual meanings of blue is the divine nature of God in Christianity, where it’s often used to describe the heavenly realm and the glory of God, as seen earlier. In addition to representing the divine nature of God, blue is also associated with spiritual awareness and intuition. In many Eastern belief systems, blue is associated with the throat chakra. In Hinduism and Buddhism, blue is often used to represent the concept of enlightenment and the journey towards self-realization.

Another spiritual meaning of blue is purity and holiness, as evident in the Jewish faith, where blue is often used to represent the color of fringes worn on a prayer shawl. These fringes are made of white and blue threads and are believed to symbolize the commandments of God. The blue thread serves as a reminder to follow God’s commandments and to maintain a pure and holy lifestyle.

Psychology-wise, research has also shown that blue can have a positive impact on mental and emotional well-being, and its use is popular among individuals on a spiritual journey. Exposure to the color blue has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, which can promote feelings of peace and calmness; no wonder it’s popular among individuals seeking to connect with their spiritual side.

What do dreams about the color blue mean?

Dreams about the color blue can have several different meanings depending on the context and other symbols or emotions present in the dream. Some possible interpretations of dreams about the color blue are:

Calmness and serenity: Dreams about the color blue can indicate a need for calmness and serenity in your life, and this may be a sign that you need to slow down, take a break from your hectic routine, and find time to relax and recharge.

Communication: The color blue is also associated with communication, and dreams about this color can indicate a need to communicate your thoughts and feelings more effectively. Therefore, this may be a sign that you need to express yourself more clearly, listen more attentively to others, or resolve any communication issues in your personal or professional life.

Spirituality and intuition: Blue is also a spiritual color often associated with intuition, wisdom, and spiritual growth, and dreams about this color can indicate that you are on a path of spiritual awakening or that you need to pay more attention to your intuition and inner guidance.

Trust and loyalty: The color blue is often associated with trust, loyalty, and fidelity, and dreams about this color can indicate that you need to build stronger relationships based on trust and mutual respect.

Sadness or depression: While blue is often seen as a calming color, dreams about this color can also indicate sadness, depression, or feelings of loneliness. Therefore, this may be a sign that you need to address any emotional issues or seek support from friends, family, or a professional therapist.

What do the different shades of blue mean in the Bible?

Blue is mentioned several times in the Bible, and its various shades can have different symbolic meanings. Some of the shades of blue mentioned in the Bible include;

Light Blue/Cyan

In the Bible, the light-blue color can symbolize heaven or divine nature, as implied in Exodus 24:10. As interpreted by most scholars, light blue is also associated with the Holy Spirit, as it’s believed to be the color of the veil in the Tabernacle, as suggested in Exodus 26:1 and the color of the garments of the Levitical priests, as implied in Numbers 4:6.

Royal Blue

Royal blue is a vibrant shade of blue that is often associated with royalty and honor, and in the Bible, royal blue can symbolize the glory and majesty of God, as well as earthly rulers. For instance, royal blue was used in the clothing of rulers suggested in Esther 8:15, and the robe of the high priest in Exodus, according to most Theologians.

Indigo/Dark Blue

Indigo, or dark blue, is a deep, rich shade of blue that is often associated with the night sky, and in the Bible, indigo can symbolize mystery, the unknown, and the depths of God’s wisdom, as most theologians suggest.

Sky Blue

As interpreted by many scholars and Theologians, sky blue is often associated with the sky and the heavens, and in the Bible, this color symbolizes the heavenly realm, hope, faith, and optimism. Sky blue is also associated with divine favor and grace, as it’s evident with the Virgin Mary in Catholicism, as she is often depicted wearing a blue robe in religious art.

Bible verses about the color blue?

Besides the verses discussed earlier, several other scriptures mention the color blue, for instance, 2 Chronicles 2:7. This verse talks about King Solomon requesting for a skilled craftsman who is experienced in working with blue yarn, among other things, to work in Judah and Jerusalem.

Additionally, 2 Chronicles 3:14 also mentions the color blue. This verse specifically describes the veil that separated the holy place from the Most Holy Place, which was made of blue, purple, and crimson yarn and finely twisted linen and decorated with cherubim.

Also, Jeremiah 10:9 mentions the color blue, suggesting that idols were crafted with great care and skill, using valuable and ornate materials like silver, gold, and colorful cloth. The use of blue and purple in this context may symbolize the wealth and power associated with the idols and their worship.

Song of Solomon 5:14 also mentions the color blue in the form of “sapphire” to describe the physical appearance of the lover being praised. The use of sapphires, and specifically blue sapphires, in this context may symbolize the lover’s beauty, purity, and worth. The color blue may also suggest that the lover is deserving of great honor and respect.

Lastly, according to most Theologians, in Matthew 9:21, the part of Jesus’ robe where the woman suffering from bleeding touched was blue, symbolizing the healing power of God.