Crimson-stained garments are a vivid biblical image that appears in several passages of Scripture, symbolizing both judgment and redemption. The color crimson, a deep red, is often associated with blood, sacrifice, and sin, making it a powerful symbol in biblical literature.

Symbolism of Crimson

In the Bible, the color crimson is frequently linked to sin and its consequences. Isaiah 1:18 states, "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool." Here, crimson represents the deep stain of sin, which only God can cleanse. The transformation from crimson to white signifies the forgiveness and purification that God offers to His people.

Crimson in Judgment

Crimson-stained garments are also a symbol of divine judgment. In Isaiah 63:1-3 , the imagery of garments stained with crimson is used to depict the Lord's vengeance against His enemies: "Who is this coming from Edom, from Bozrah with crimson-stained garments? Who is this robed in splendor, striding forward in the greatness of His strength? 'It is I, proclaiming vindication, mighty to save.' Why are Your clothes red, and Your garments like one who treads the winepress? 'I have trodden the winepress alone, and from the nations no one was with Me. I trampled them in My anger and trod them down in My wrath; their blood spattered My garments, and I stained all My clothing.'" This passage portrays the Lord as a warrior whose garments are stained with the blood of His adversaries, emphasizing His power and justice.

Crimson in Redemption

Conversely, crimson-stained garments also point to redemption through the sacrificial blood of Christ. In Revelation 19:13 , the returning Christ is described: "He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and His name is The Word of God." This imagery connects the crimson-stained robe to the atoning sacrifice of Jesus, whose blood was shed for the salvation of humanity. The robe dipped in blood signifies the victory over sin and death achieved through Christ's sacrifice.

Crimson in the Tabernacle and Temple

The use of crimson in the construction of the Tabernacle and Temple further underscores its significance. In Exodus 26:1 , God instructs Moses to make the Tabernacle curtains with "blue, purple, and scarlet yarn," with scarlet being a shade of crimson. This inclusion of crimson in the sacred space highlights its role in the sacrificial system, pointing to the necessity of blood for atonement and the foreshadowing of Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

Conclusion

Crimson-stained garments in the Bible serve as a multifaceted symbol, representing both the severity of sin and the profound nature of divine judgment, as well as the hope and redemption found in Christ's sacrificial blood. Through these vivid images, Scripture communicates the gravity of sin, the righteousness of God's judgment, and the transformative power of His grace.