The color blue often brings to mind calm skies or peaceful waters, but in the Bible, it carries deeper meanings. From the instructions for the tabernacle to symbols of God’s presence, blue appears in significant ways. Today, we’ll look at its spiritual symbolism and what it teaches us about faith and God’s covenant with His people.
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What Does The Bible Say About Blue
Genesis 1:9
“And God said, “Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear.” And it was so.”
This verse speaks of God’s creation of land and seas. It reminds us of the beauty and vastness of the ocean, with its deep blue hues.
Blue is often associated with the depths of the sea or the expanse of the sky, symbolizing peace, tranquility, and the wonders of creation.
Exodus 24:10
“And they saw the God of Israel; and there was under his feet as it were a paved work of a sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in his clearness.”
In this passage, Moses and some of the Israelites catch a glimpse of God’s glory. The reference to a “paved work of a sapphire stone” highlights the vibrant blue color associated with precious gemstones.
Blue is often considered a color of royalty and divine presence. It reminds us of God’s majestic nature and His presence among His people.
Exodus 28:31
“Make the robe of the ephod entirely of blue cloth.”
Here, God gives instructions to Moses on the design of the high priest’s garments, including the robe made of blue cloth.
The use of blue in the priestly attire signifies the importance of holiness, righteousness, and reverence in serving God. It represents the connection between heaven and earth.
Numbers 15:38
“Speak to the Israelites and say to them: “Throughout the generations to come you are to make tassels on the corners of your garments, with a blue cord on each tassel.”
God instructs the Israelites to attach tassels to their garments, each with a blue cord. This is to serve as a reminder for them to keep God’s commandments.
The blue cord symbolizes the heavenly origin and authority of God’s laws. It serves as a visual cue for the people to follow His instructions and live a life of obedience.
1 Chronicles 29:2
“With all my resources I have provided for the temple of my God—gold for the gold work, silver for the silver, bronze for the bronze, iron for the iron and wood for the wood, as well as onyx for the settings, turquoise, stones of various colors, and all kinds of fine stone and marble—all of these in large quantities.”
In this verse, King David describes the extensive preparations he made for the construction of the temple in Jerusalem. He mentions the use of turquoise and stones of various colors, including blue.
Blue stones were used for decorative purposes and added splendor to the temple. They symbolize the beauty and grandeur of God’s dwelling place.
Psalms 19:1
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
This verse emphasizes the majesty and wonder of God’s creation. The clear blue skies overhead serve as a testament to His power and creativity.
Blue, as seen in the sky during the day, manifests God’s glory and reveals His handiwork. It inspires awe and reminds us of the vastness of His creation.
Psalms 33:6
“By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, their starry host by the breath of his mouth.”
Here, the psalmist extols the power of God’s spoken word in creating the heavens and the stars that adorn the night sky.
Blue, as seen in the dark expanse of the nocturnal heavens, reveals the divine artistry and reflects the brilliance of God’s creative touch.
Psalms 89:8
“Who is like you, Lord God Almighty? You, Lord, are mighty, and your faithfulness surrounds you.”
This verse expresses praise and reverence for the Lord, emphasizing His unrivaled power and faithfulness.
Blue represents the eternal nature of God’s faithfulness. Just as the expanse of the sky is vast and unchanging, so is His unfailing love and commitment to His people.
Psalms 93:4
“Mightier than the thunder of the great waters, mightier than the breakers of the sea—the Lord on high is mighty.”
The psalmist declares the strength and might of God, comparing it to the powerful forces of nature, such as the roaring waves of the sea.
Blue, as associated with the vastness of the sea, represents the overwhelming power and sovereignty of God. It serves as a reminder of His ability to calm the storms in our lives.
Psalms 104:24
“How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom, you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.”
This verse acknowledges God’s wisdom and creativity in the abundance of His creations. It affirms that every living thing is a testament to His handiwork.
Blue, found in the intricacies of nature, evokes a sense of awe and wonder. It reminds us of the diversity and beauty of God’s creation.
Psalms 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
This verse highlights the guidance and illumination that God’s Word provides for His people.
Blue, reminiscent of the sky’s hue at dusk, symbolizes hope and direction. It reminds us that God’s Word leads us on the right path and brings clarity to our lives.
Psalms 139:8
“If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.”
In this verse, the psalmist acknowledges that God’s presence is everywhere, whether in the heights of the heavens or the depths of the depths.
Blue, seen in the vastness of the sky and the depths of the ocean, symbolizes the omnipresence of God. It reminds us that He is with us always, no matter where we find ourselves.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
These verses encourage wholehearted trust in God and the surrender of one’s own understanding to His wisdom and guidance. They promise that following Him will lead to a straight and purposeful path.
Blue, symbolizing trust and surrender, reminds us to rely on God’s guidance rather than our limited understanding. It prompts us to submit to His will, knowing that His plans are always best.
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
This verse speaks of the strength and endurance that comes from placing our hope in the Lord.
Blue, reminiscent of the boundless sky, symbolizes hope and freedom. It reminds us that when we put our trust in God, He empowers us to overcome obstacles and find renewed strength.
Isaiah 43:2
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
God assures His people that He will be with them during times of trouble, protecting them from harm and providing comfort.
Blue, symbolic of the deep waters, represents the presence of God during trials. It reminds us that His presence brings peace and safety, even in the midst of life’s challenges.
Jeremiah 31:25
“I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint.”
God promises to bring refreshment and satisfaction to those who are weary and in need of rest.
Blue, reminiscent of the calmness of a tranquil sea, symbolizes rest and rejuvenation. It reminds us that in God’s presence, we can find true peace and renewal.
Ezekiel 1:26
“Above the vault over their heads was what looked like a throne of lapis lazuli, and high above on the throne was a figure like that of a man.”
Ezekiel describes a vision of God’s throne, which appears to be made of lapis lazuli, a stunning blue gemstone.
The use of blue in this vision represents the heavenly nature of God’s throne and emphasizes His sovereignty and authority over all creation.
Matthew 5:16
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Jesus encourages His followers to shine their light in the world by living out their faith and performing good deeds.
Blue, reminiscent of the vibrant sky at sunrise, symbolizes the radiance of God’s love and the impact of our actions. It reminds us to be a beacon of light, pointing others to the glory of God.
John 1:3-4
“Through him all things were made; without him, nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.”
This passage speaks of Jesus as the source of life and light, through whom all creation came into existence.
Blue, as seen in the expanse of the sky, symbolizes the light of Christ that shines upon all mankind. It reminds us of the life-giving power and illuminating truth found in Him.
Acts 16:14
“One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message.”
Lydia, a seller of purple cloth, becomes a follower of Jesus after hearing the preaching of Paul. Purple dye in those times was often derived from a blue pigment.
Blue, as a precursor to purple, symbolizes a willingness to receive God’s message. It reminds us of the transformative power of the Gospel and the openness of our hearts to respond.
Revelation 21:19-20
“The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst.”
John describes the heavenly New Jerusalem and its magnificent foundations adorned with various precious stones, including sapphire.
Blue, represented by the sapphire stone, symbolizes the beauty and glory of our eternal home. It reminds us of the promise of God’s everlasting kingdom and the splendor that awaits believers in heaven.