Bible Dictionary
Blue
Blue was a prominent color in the tabernacle and priestly garments. It was used for sacred curtains, coverings, cords, and the robe of the high priest.
Definition
Blue was a prominent color in the tabernacle and in priestly garments. It was used for sacred curtains, curtain loops, the ribbon of the breastplate, the high priest’s robe, and various cloths and coverings used for religious purposes.
Biblical Usage
Blue appears in the materials and furnishings appointed for Israel’s worship, especially the tabernacle, priestly clothing, and sacred coverings. It is generally mentioned together with purple and other prescribed colors.
Historical Background
The color was supposed to be obtained from a shellfish of the Mediterranean. The supplied material does not establish the identification with certainty.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Generally associated with purple (Ex. 25:4; 26:1, 31, 36, etc.). It is supposed to have been obtained from a shellfish of the Mediterranean, the Helix ianthina of Linnaeus. The robe of the high priest’s ephod was to be all of this colour (Ex. 28:31), also the loops of the curtains (26:4) and the ribbon of the breastplate (28:28). Blue cloths were also made for various sacred purposes (Num. 4:6, 7, 9, 11, 12). (See COLOUR.)
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>bloo.</p><p>See COLORS.</p>