The Colour Red in the Bible
Earth, mankind, and the blood of atonement.
The colour red in the Bible is bound up with Adam — whose name means 'red' — with the earth from which he was made, and with the blood by which atonement is made for the soul.
Key KJV Verses
"And the first came out red, all over like an hairy garment; and they called his name Esau."
"...that they bring thee a red heifer without spot, wherein is no blemish..."
"...though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."
Adam and the earth
Adam, Edom, and the red earth are all linked — red speaks of man's natural origin and fallen condition.
The red heifer
Numbers 19's red heifer, sacrificed and reduced to ashes for cleansing, foreshadows the deeper purification by the blood of Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the colour red symbolize in the Bible?
Earthly humanity, sin, and the atoning blood that removes it.
Why is the red heifer significant?
Its ashes purified the unclean — a type of Christ's once-for-all cleansing.
Related Bible Symbols
Related Reading
Continue your study with related content from across our library:
Biblical Meaning of the Color Red in a Dream (KJV)
Blood, sacrifice, war, and passionate love.
Biblical Meaning of the Color White in a Dream (KJV)
Purity, righteousness, and the garments of the redeemed.
Adam vs. Christ — How Are They Compared?
Theology & Doctrine
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Redemption (ἀπολύτρωσις (Apolytrōsis))
The act of buying back; liberation through payment of a ransom