Fine Linen

Fine linen in the Bible is often associated with purity, holiness, and wealth. It is a fabric of high quality, made from flax, and was used in various sacred and royal contexts. In the construction of the Tabernacle, fine linen was a significant material. Exodus 26:1 states, "You are to construct the tabernacle itself with ten curtains of finely twisted linen, with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully worked into them." This indicates the importance of fine linen in the worship and service of God, symbolizing purity and divine craftsmanship.

The priests' garments also included fine linen, as described in Exodus 28:39 : "You are to weave the tunic with fine linen, make the turban of fine linen, and fashion the sash with embroidery." The use of fine linen in priestly attire underscores its association with holiness and the consecration of those who serve before God.

In the New Testament, fine linen is mentioned in the context of wealth and luxury. In Luke 16:19 , the rich man is described as "dressed in purple and fine linen," highlighting his opulence. Similarly, Revelation 18:12 lists fine linen among the luxurious goods of Babylon, symbolizing the city's wealth and eventual downfall.

Purple

Purple is a color that signifies royalty, wealth, and authority in the biblical narrative. The dye used to produce purple was rare and expensive, derived from the murex snail, making it a symbol of high status. In the construction of the Tabernacle, purple was used alongside fine linen and scarlet, as seen in Exodus 26:1 .

The significance of purple as a royal color is evident in the account of Mordecai in the Book of Esther. After being honored by King Ahasuerus, Mordecai is dressed in royal garments, including a robe of purple (Esther 8:15). This attire signifies his elevated status and the king's favor.

In the New Testament, purple continues to represent wealth and authority. In Acts 16:14 , Lydia, a seller of purple goods, is mentioned as a woman of means and influence. Her trade in purple cloth indicates her prosperity and the high value of her merchandise.

Scarlet

Scarlet, a vivid red color, is frequently associated with sin, sacrifice, and redemption in the Bible. Like purple, scarlet was a costly dye, often used in significant religious and royal contexts. In the Tabernacle, scarlet yarn was used in the curtains and priestly garments, as noted in Exodus 26:1 .

Scarlet's association with sin is famously illustrated in Isaiah 1:18 : "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool." This verse uses scarlet to symbolize the deep stain of sin, contrasting it with the cleansing and forgiveness offered by God.

In the New Testament, scarlet is mentioned in the context of Jesus' crucifixion. The soldiers mockingly dress Jesus in a scarlet robe, as recorded in Matthew 27:28 : "They stripped Him and put a scarlet robe on Him." This act of mockery ironically highlights Jesus' true kingship and the sacrificial nature of His mission.

In Revelation, scarlet is associated with the opulence and eventual judgment of Babylon. Revelation 17:4 describes the woman on the beast as "dressed in purple and scarlet," symbolizing her wealth and impending doom.

Together, fine linen, purple, and scarlet are woven throughout the biblical narrative, symbolizing purity, royalty, sin, and redemption. These materials and colors serve as powerful symbols in the unfolding account of God's relationship with His people.