The Bible uses colors like brown to symbolize earthy and humble themes. While it might not be a common topic, there are lessons to learn from its presence in scripture. Today, we’ll uncover the significance of brown in the Bible.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Encouraging One Another
What Does The Bible Say About Brown
Genesis 30:32
Let me go through all your flocks today and remove from them every speckled or spotted sheep, every dark-colored lamb and every spotted or speckled goat. They will be my wages.
In this verse, Jacob negotiates with Laban for the right to keep all the dark-colored animals as his own. It highlights the significance of the brown color in biblical times and how it was considered valuable.
Brown often symbolizes humility, simplicity, and earthiness. This verse serves as a reminder that God values all colors and uses them for His purposes.
Exodus 2:2
The woman became pregnant and gave birth to a son. When she saw that he was a fine child, she hid him for three months.
This passage describes the birth of Moses, who would later become a great leader and deliverer of the Israelites. The mention of him being a “fine child” suggests that he possessed exceptional qualities.
The brown color may not be explicitly mentioned here, but this verse highlights the significance of each individual, regardless of their physical appearance. It reminds us that greatness can come from unexpected places.
1 Samuel 16:12
So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.”
When Samuel was sent by God to anoint the future king of Israel, he first encountered Eliab, thinking he was the one. However, God chose someone different.
Although the brown color is not mentioned directly, this verse signifies that appearances can be deceptive, and God looks beyond external appearances to see the heart. The passage emphasizes the importance of character rather than physical attributes.
2 Samuel 14:25
In all Israel, there was not a man so highly praised for his handsome appearance as Absalom. From the top of his head to the sole of his foot, there was no blemish in him.
Absalom was known for his remarkable physical appearance, described as handsome and without blemish.
Although there is no direct mention of brown here, this verse illustrates how physical appearances can captivate people’s attention. However, it also serves as a reminder that true beauty radiates from within rather than from external features.
Genesis 25:25
The first to come out was red, and his whole body was like a hairy garment; so they named him Esau.
Esau, the son of Isaac and Rebekah, was born with red hair and a hairy body, distinguishing him from his twin brother Jacob.
While this verse doesn’t refer specifically to brown, it highlights how individuals can have unique physical characteristics that set them apart. It reminds us that diversity in appearance is a beautiful reflection of God’s creation.
Genesis 37:3
Now Israel loved Joseph more than any of his other sons because he had been born to him in his old age; and he made an ornate[a] robe for him.
Joseph was favored by his father, Israel, and was given a special robe, often referred to as the “coat of many colors.”
Although brown is not explicitly mentioned, this verse emphasizes the significance of clothing and how it can symbolize distinction and honor. The passage serves as a reminder to value and appreciate the unique qualities and blessings bestowed upon us.
Exodus 4:6
Then the Lord said, “Put your hand inside your cloak.” So, Moses put his hand into his cloak, and when he took it out, the skin was leprous—it had become as white as snow.
When God commanded Moses to put his hand inside his cloak, it was transformed and became leprous, representing a divine sign.
Although this verse doesn’t explicitly mention brown, it highlights how changes in appearance can occur through divine intervention. It underscores the idea that God has the power to transform and use individuals regardless of their initial physical traits.
Leviticus 13:19
If it spreads in the skin, then the priest shall pronounce him unclean; it is a leprous disease.
This verse discusses the identification of leprous diseases and how they were declared unclean.
Although the brown color is not mentioned, the verse underscores the significance of identifying physical conditions and taking appropriate actions. It reminds us of the importance of caring for our bodies and seeking healing when necessary.
Ruth 2:17
So Ruth gleaned in the field until evening. Then she threshed the barley she had gathered, and it amounted to about an ephah.
In this verse, Ruth gathers barley while gleaning in the field, signifying her hard work and dedication.
Although there is no direct mention of brown, this verse highlights the importance of diligence and perseverance. It serves as a reminder that success often requires consistent effort and the willingness to work diligently.
Deuteronomy 4:11
You came near and stood at the foot of the mountain while it blazed with fire to the very heavens, with black clouds and deep darkness.
When Moses received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai, the mountain was described as blazing with fire and covered in black clouds and deep darkness.
Although the color brown is not explicitly mentioned, this verse portrays the mountain in dark and intense shades. It signifies the awe-inspiring and majestic presence of God, reminding us of His power and sovereignty.
1 Samuel 17:4
A champion named Goliath, who was from Gath, came out of the Philistine camp. His height was six cubits and a span.
Goliath, a Philistine warrior, was known for his remarkable height, measuring approximately nine feet.
While there is no direct mention of brown, this verse highlights how physical attributes can make individuals stand out. However, it also serves as a reminder that true strength comes from God, regardless of one’s physical stature.
Esther 2:12
Before a young woman’s turn came to go in to King Xerxes, she had to complete twelve months of beauty treatments prescribed for the women, six months with oil of myrrh and six with perfumes and cosmetics.
This verse describes the preparation young women had to undergo before entering the presence of King Xerxes.
While brown is not explicitly mentioned, this verse highlights the importance of self-care and preparation. It reminds us to value our physical appearance and strive for excellence while maintaining humility.
Job 30:30
My skin grows black and peels; my body burns with fever.
Job describes the physical afflictions he faced, including blackening skin and feverish conditions.
Although the color brown is not directly referred to, this verse highlights the physical challenges that can affect the skin. It serves as a reminder of the importance of health and the hardships individuals may face due to physical conditions.
Song of Solomon 1:5-6
Dark am I, yet lovely, daughters of Jerusalem, dark like the tents of Kedar, like the tent curtains of Solomon. Do not stare at me because I am dark, because I am darkened by the sun. My mother’s sons were angry with me and made me take care of the vineyards; my own vineyard I had to neglect.
In this poetic passage, the Shulammite woman describes herself as dark but lovely, attributing her dark complexion to working in the vineyards under the sun.
This verse celebrates and affirms the beauty of individuals with darker skin tones, challenging societal norms and perceptions. It reminds us that beauty is diverse, and all shades of brown are to be valued and appreciated.
Psalm 45:8
All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia; from palaces adorned with ivory the music of the strings makes you glad.
This verse depicts the fragrance and splendor associated with the robes of the king.
Although the color brown is not explicitly mentioned, this verse symbolizes opulence and grandeur. It reminds us that earthly beauty can be captivating and brings joy. However, it also prompts us to reflect on the eternal beauty found in God’s presence.
Proverbs 31:22
She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
This verse describes the virtues of a noble woman who is industrious and dresses in fine linen and purple.
Although the color brown is not mentioned, this verse emphasizes the importance of clothing and the significance it holds. It inspires us to dress with dignity and excellence, reflecting inner character and values.
Song of Solomon 4:2
Your teeth are like a flock of sheep just shorn, coming up from the washing. Each has its twin; not one of them is alone.
In this poetic passage, the beloved’s teeth are praised for their straightness and cleanliness.
Although the color brown is not explicitly mentioned, this verse highlights the attention given to physical features and hygiene. It serves as a reminder to care for ourselves and take pride in the unique qualities that make us who we are.
Isaiah 1:18
“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.”
In this verse, God invites the people to reason together and promises forgiveness and cleansing of sins.
Although the color brown is not explicitly mentioned, this verse illustrates the transformative power of God’s forgiveness and redemption. It serves as a reminder that no matter how stained or burdened we may feel, God can wash us clean and make us new.
Jeremiah 14:2
“Judah mourns, her cities languish; they wail for the land, and a cry goes up from Jerusalem.”
In this verse, Jeremiah describes the sorrow and suffering of the people of Judah and their cities.
While brown is not specifically mentioned, this verse conveys the somber and mournful atmosphere that can accompany challenging times. It serves as a reminder that God is present in our darkest moments, offering comfort and hope.
Daniel 1:4
Youth without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well-informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king’s palace—he was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians.
In this verse, Daniel and his friends are selected for their exceptional qualities and skills to serve in the king’s palace.
While brown is not specifically mentioned, this verse emphasizes the importance of knowledge, talent, and appearances in certain contexts. It serves as a reminder that using our gifts and abilities for God’s purposes can lead to greater opportunities and influence.
Zephaniah 1:14
The great day of the LORD is near—near and coming quickly. The cry on the day of the LORD is bitter; the Mighty Warrior shouts his battle cry.
Zephaniah prophesies about the impending judgment and the bitterness and cries that will accompany it.
Although the color brown is not mentioned, this verse conveys the urgency and seriousness of the coming judgment. It reminds us to prepare our hearts and seek righteousness, knowing that God’s day of reckoning approaches.
Zechariah 1:8
During the night I had a vision, and there before me was a man mounted on a red horse. He was standing among the myrtle trees in a ravine. Behind him were red, brown, and white horses.
In this vision, Zechariah sees a man on a red horse, with red, brown, and white horses following behind.
This verse highlights the presence of different colors, including brown, within the vision. While the significance of the brown color is not explicitly explained, it emphasizes the diversity and symbolism found in biblical visions and prophecies.
Revelation 6:5-6
When the Lamb opened the third seal, I heard the third living creature say, “Come!” I looked, and there before me was a black horse! Its rider was holding a pair of scales in his hand. Then I heard what sounded like a voice among the four living creatures, saying, “Two pounds of wheat for a day’s wages, and six pounds of barley for a day’s wages, and do not damage the oil and the wine!”
As part of the revelation received by John, a black horse is described, ridden by a figure carrying scales.
Although the color brown is not directly referred to, this verse portrays a dark and uncertain scenario where scarcity and economic challenges are presented. It reminds us of the fragility of earthly resources and the need for reliance on God’s provision.
Lamentations 5:10
Our skin was hot as an oven, feverish from hunger.
In the book of Lamentations, the writer laments the distress and suffering of the people, describing their feverish skin due to hunger.
Although the color brown is not explicitly mentioned, this verse highlights the physical manifestations of hunger and suffering. It encourages us to remember those facing difficulties and to extend our compassion and support to those in need.