Scarlet wool and hyssop are two elements mentioned in the Bible that hold significant symbolic and ritualistic importance, particularly in the context of purification and sacrifice.

Scarlet Wool

Scarlet wool is referenced in the context of the Old Testament sacrificial system and purification rites. The color scarlet, a vivid red, is often associated with sin, sacrifice, and atonement. In the ancient Near Eastern context, scarlet dye was derived from the crushed bodies of certain insects, making it both valuable and symbolically potent.

In the book of Hebrews, the use of scarlet wool is mentioned in relation to the purification rites established under the Mosaic Law. Hebrews 9:19 states, "For when Moses had proclaimed every commandment of the law to all the people, he took the blood of calves and goats, along with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled the scroll and all the people." Here, scarlet wool is part of the ritual that underscores the seriousness of sin and the need for cleansing through sacrificial blood.

The use of scarlet wool in these rites symbolizes the covering and atonement of sin, pointing forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ, whose blood would provide the final and complete atonement for sin. The vivid color of scarlet serves as a visual reminder of the cost of sin and the necessity of a blood sacrifice for redemption.

Hyssop

Hyssop is a plant mentioned frequently in the Bible, known for its aromatic properties and its use in purification rituals. It is a small bushy plant with cleansing properties, often associated with purification and ceremonial cleansing.

In the Old Testament, hyssop is used in various purification rites. For instance, in the cleansing of a leper, Leviticus 14:4 instructs, "the priest shall order that two live clean birds, cedar wood, scarlet yarn, and hyssop be brought for the one to be cleansed." Hyssop's use in these rites symbolizes spiritual cleansing and renewal.

Hyssop is also famously mentioned in Psalm 51:7 , where David, in his plea for forgiveness, says, "Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow." Here, hyssop represents the desire for inner purification and the removal of sin.

In the New Testament, hyssop appears at the crucifixion of Jesus. John 19:29 records, "A jar of sour wine was sitting there. So they soaked a sponge in the wine, put it on a stalk of hyssop, and lifted it to His mouth." This act, occurring during the crucifixion, ties back to the Passover lamb and the use of hyssop to apply the blood to the doorposts in Exodus 12:22 , symbolizing protection and deliverance.

Together, scarlet wool and hyssop serve as powerful symbols within the biblical narrative, representing the themes of sacrifice, purification, and redemption. They point to the necessity of cleansing from sin and the provision of God’s grace through the sacrificial system, ultimately fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ.