Purple dye in the Bible symbolizes royalty, wealth, and high status. It was extremely valuable in the ancient world due to the labor-intensive process required to produce it, usually from the murex sea snail. Because of this, purple garments were worn by kings, nobles, and those of elevated rank.
In the Old Testament, purple was one of the colors used in the tabernacle and priestly garments:
“And they shall take gold, blue, purple, and scarlet thread, and fine linen… they shall make the ephod of gold, blue, purple, and scarlet thread…”
(Exodus 25:4; 28:5–6)
This use of purple in worship showed that God was worthy of the highest honor and splendor.
In the New Testament, purple continues to signify authority and luxury. Jesus was mockingly dressed in a purple robe during His trial:
“And they clothed Him with purple; and they twisted a crown of thorns, put it on His head…”
(Mark 15:17)
The soldiers did this to ridicule His claim of kingship, ironically affirming the truth that He is indeed the King of kings.
Lydia, a seller of purple in Acts 16:14, is noted as a worshiper of God. Her trade suggests that she was a wealthy and influential woman, and her conversion played a key role in establishing the church in Philippi.
In Revelation, the harlot representing Babylon is described as being “arrayed in purple and scarlet” (Revelation 17:4), symbolizing both opulence and spiritual corruption.
Throughout Scripture, purple dye carries a double meaning. Positively, it reflects glory, kingship, and the majesty of God. Negatively, it can represent pride, extravagance, and false authority when misused.
Purple reminds us that true honor and authority come from God, and it belongs to those who walk humbly and righteously before Him.
