Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, articles of purple held significant economic and cultural value, symbolizing wealth, royalty, and prestige. The color purple was associated with luxury and high status due to the labor-intensive process required to produce the dye. This entry explores the biblical references to articles of purple, their significance in commerce, and their cultural implications.Biblical References The Bible frequently mentions purple garments and textiles, highlighting their importance in ancient commerce and society. In the Old Testament, the construction of the Tabernacle included the use of purple materials. Exodus 26:1 describes the instructions given to Moses: "You are to make the tabernacle with ten curtains of finely twisted linen, and blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, with cherubim skillfully worked into them." In the New Testament, Lydia of Thyatira is a notable figure associated with purple goods. Acts 16:14-15 introduces her as "a dealer in purple cloth" who worshiped God. Her profession indicates her involvement in a lucrative trade, as purple dye was highly sought after and expensive. The Production of Purple Dye The production of purple dye in biblical times was a complex and costly process. The dye was extracted from the murex sea snail, primarily found in the Mediterranean region. Thousands of snails were required to produce even a small amount of dye, contributing to the high value of purple textiles. This labor-intensive process made purple garments a luxury item, affordable only to the wealthy and powerful. Cultural and Economic Significance Articles of purple were not only a symbol of wealth but also of authority and nobility. In ancient cultures, including those mentioned in the Bible, purple was often reserved for royalty and high-ranking officials. This is evident in the account of Mordecai in the Book of Esther, where he is honored by King Ahasuerus: "Then Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal garments of blue and white, with a large crown of gold and a purple robe of fine linen" (Esther 8:15). The demand for purple textiles contributed significantly to the economy of regions involved in their production and trade. Cities like Tyre and Sidon, known for their purple dye industry, became prosperous centers of commerce. Ezekiel 27:7 references Tyre's trade: "Your sail was made of fine embroidered linen from Egypt, and your awnings of blue and purple from the coasts of Elishah." Symbolism in Scripture In addition to their economic value, articles of purple carry symbolic meanings in Scripture. They often represent wealth, power, and divine favor. In the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, the rich man is described as "dressed in purple and fine linen and living in luxury every day" (Luke 16:19), emphasizing his affluent lifestyle. The use of purple in the Tabernacle and Temple also signifies holiness and the majesty of God. The color's association with royalty and divinity underscores its importance in religious contexts, reflecting the glory and sovereignty of God. Conclusion Articles of purple in the Bible illustrate the intersection of commerce, culture, and spirituality. Their presence in Scripture highlights the economic significance of the purple dye trade and its cultural implications as a symbol of wealth and authority. Through these references, the Bible provides insight into the historical and spiritual dimensions of this luxurious commodity. Nave's Topical Index Ezekiel 27:16Syria was your merchant by reason of the multitude of the wares of your making: they occupied in your fairs with emeralds, purple, and broidered work, and fine linen, and coral, and agate. Nave's Topical Index Revelation 18:12 Library The Destruction of Babylon. Index i. Of Subjects The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus The Sixth vision "On Earth" Syria at the Beginning of the Egyptian Conquest The Last Days of the Old Eastern World Bunsen's Biblical Researches. The Political Constitution of Egypt The Assyrian Revival and the Struggle for Syria The Memphite Empire Resources What are blue laws? What is a biblical view of blue laws? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Cyprus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Is there such a thing as absolute truth / universal truth? | GotQuestions.org Commerce: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Commerce of the Jews: Checked in Jehoshaphat's Time Commerce of the Jews: Commenced After Their Settlement in Canaan Commerce of the Jews: Greatly Extended by Solomon Commerce of the Jews: Under Strict Laws Commerce: Articles of Blue Cloth Commerce: Articles of Bodies and Souls of Men Commerce: Articles of Chariots Commerce: Articles of Chest of Rich Apparel Commerce: Articles of Chests of Rich Apparel Commerce: Articles of Cinnamon Commerce: Articles of Clothes for Chariots Commerce: Articles of Embroidery Commerce: Articles of Frankincense Commerce: Articles of Iron and Steel Commerce: Articles of Peacocks Commerce: Articles of Perfumes Commerce: Articles of Precious Stones Commerce: Articles of Sweet Cane Commerce: Articles of Thyine Wood Commerce: Articles of White Wool Commerce: Articles of, Called: Merchandise Commerce: Articles of, Called: Wares Commerce: Called: Buying and Selling Commerce: Carried on by Egyptians Commerce: Carried on by Ethiopians Commerce: Carried on by Ishmaelites Commerce: Carried on by Means of Caravans Commerce: Carried on by Means of Ships Commerce: Carried on by Ninevites Commerce: Carried on by People of Tarshish Commerce: Carried on by People of Tyre Commerce: Carried on by Syrians Commerce: Denunciations Connected With Abuses of Commerce: Evil Practices Connected With Commerce: Illustrative of Intercourse With the Apostasy Commerce: Increased the Wealth of Nations and Individuals Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Chapmen Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Merchants Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Sellers and Buyers Commerce: Persons Engaged In, Called: Traffickers Commerce: Persons of Distinction Engaged In Commerce: Success In, Led to Pride Commerce: The Barter of One Commodity for Another Commerce: The Exchange of Commodities for Money Commerce: Transportation of Passengers Related Terms |
    |