Scarlet clothing in the Bible is often associated with wealth, luxury, and status, as well as sin and judgment. The color scarlet, a vivid red, is derived from a dye made from the dried bodies of certain scale insects. This dye was highly prized in ancient times, making scarlet garments expensive and a symbol of opulence.

Symbol of Wealth and Luxury

Scarlet clothing is frequently mentioned in the context of wealth and luxury. In Proverbs 31:21, the virtuous woman is described as ensuring her household is clothed in scarlet, indicating her family's prosperity and preparedness: "When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet" . This suggests that scarlet garments were considered a mark of affluence and care.

In the book of Daniel, scarlet is associated with royal honor. When King Belshazzar offers Daniel a reward for interpreting the mysterious writing on the wall, he promises to clothe him in scarlet and place a gold chain around his neck, signifying high status and authority (Daniel 5:7, 16, 29).

Symbol of Sin and Judgment

Scarlet is also used metaphorically to represent sin and moral impurity. In Isaiah 1:18, the Lord offers forgiveness and cleansing from sin, using scarlet as a metaphor for the deep stain of sin: "Come now, let us reason together, 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" . Here, scarlet symbolizes the glaring and undeniable nature of sin, which only divine intervention can cleanse.

In the New Testament, the book of Revelation uses scarlet to depict the opulence and corruption of Babylon, the great city symbolizing worldly power and immorality. Revelation 17:4 describes the woman sitting on the beast as "clothed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls" , highlighting her wealth and the seductive allure of sin.

Priestly Garments and Tabernacle

Scarlet was also a significant color in the construction of the Tabernacle and the garments of the high priest. In Exodus 28:5-6, the instructions for the priestly garments include the use of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, woven into fine linen. The use of scarlet in the Tabernacle and priestly attire signifies the importance and sacredness of these items, as well as the wealth and beauty of the worship setting.

Conclusion

Scarlet clothing in the Bible serves as a multifaceted symbol, representing both the allure of wealth and the gravity of sin. Its use in various contexts underscores the complexity of human nature and the divine call to holiness and redemption.