Why is the Number 7 So Important in the Bible?

What is the significance of the number 7 in the Bible?

The number 7 holds a special place in the Bible, my beloved children. It is a number that speaks to us of completeness, perfection, and the fullness of God’s creation and plan for humanity. As we contemplate its significance, we are drawn into a deeper understanding of the divine mysteries.

In the very beginning of Scripture, we see God creating the world in six days and resting on the seventh, thus establishing the pattern of the Sabbath (Genesis 2:2-3). This seventh day of rest is not merely a pause in activity, but a celebration of the completeness of God’s work. It invites us to recognize the inherent goodness of creation and to enter into a rhythm of work and rest that reflects the divine order.

Throughout the Bible, we encounter the number 7 in various contexts, each time reminding us of God’s perfect plan and the completeness of His actions. In the book of Revelation, we find numerous references to seven churches, seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven bowls, among others (Revelation 1-22). These sevens point to the completeness of God’s judgment and the fulfillment of His promises.

The significance of 7 extends beyond mere repetition; it invites us to contemplate the perfection of God’s ways. As the prophet Isaiah declares, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways” (Isaiah 55:8). The recurring presence of 7 in Scripture reminds us that God’s plan is complete, His wisdom is perfect, and His love for us is without measure.

The number 7 encourages us to seek wholeness in our own lives. Just as God’s work of creation was completed in seven days, we are called to strive for completeness in our faith, our relationships, and our service to others. It challenges us to examine our lives and ask: Are we living in a way that reflects the fullness of God’s love and grace?

How many times does the number 7 appear in Scripture?

The number 7 appears in the Bible hundreds of times, both explicitly and implicitly. In the Old Testament alone, it occurs over 350 times, while in the New Testament, we find it mentioned more than 50 times(Sayoud, 2015, p. 13). But let us not be too focused on the exact count, for the importance of this number transcends mere arithmetic.

What is truly remarkable is how the number 7 weaves its way through the narrative of salvation history, appearing at key moments and in major patterns. From the seven days of creation to the seven churches addressed in the Book of Revelation, we see this number recurring in ways that speak to God’s perfect plan and the completeness of His work.

In the Gospels, we find Jesus speaking of forgiving “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22), not as a literal instruction to count to 490, but as a powerful metaphor for boundless mercy. This teaches us that the significance of 7 in Scripture often goes beyond its literal use, inviting us to contemplate deeper spiritual truths.

The Book of Revelation, in particular, is replete with sevens: seven churches, seven seals, seven trumpets, seven bowls, and many more. These repetitions are not mere coincidence, but a deliberate literary device used to convey the completeness and perfection of God’s plan unfolding in human history(Sayoud, 2015, p. 13).

As we reflect on the frequency of 7 in Scripture, let us remember the words of St. Augustine: “The number seven is, therefore, often used to signify universality.” , each occurrence of 7 invites us to look beyond the surface and contemplate the fullness and perfection of God’s ways.

Let us not become overly concerned with counting every instance of 7 in the Bible. Instead, let each occurrence we encounter be an invitation to pause, reflect, and open our hearts to the deeper message God is conveying. Whether it appears in laws, prophecies, visions, or narratives, the number 7 consistently points us towards the completeness of God’s work and the perfection of His will.

What are some important biblical events or concepts associated with the number 7?

We must consider the very foundation of creation itself. In the book of Genesis, we learn that God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh, thus establishing the pattern of the Sabbath (Genesis 2:2-3). This seventh day of rest is not merely an afterthought, but an integral part of creation, inviting us to pause and reflect on the goodness of God’s work and our place within it.

The concept of the Sabbath year, occurring every seven years, and the Jubilee year, after seven cycles of seven years, further emphasizes the importance of 7 in God’s plan for His people (Leviticus 25:1-22). These institutions were designed to bring about social justice, forgiveness of debts, and restoration of land – reminding us that God’s perfect plan includes care for the poor and stewardship of the earth.

In the story of Joshua and the battle of Jericho, we see the number 7 playing a crucial role. The Israelites were instructed to march around the city for seven days, with seven priests carrying seven trumpets. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times (Joshua 6:1-27). This event reminds us that God’s ways are not our ways, and that faith and obedience can bring down even the mightiest of walls.

Moving to the New Testament, we find Jesus speaking of forgiving “not seven times, but seventy-seven times” (Matthew 18:22), teaching us about the boundless nature of God’s mercy and our call to emulate it. This use of 7 challenges us to go beyond human limitations and embrace a divine perspective on forgiveness and reconciliation.

In the Book of Revelation, the number 7 appears repeatedly in visions and prophecies. We encounter seven churches, seven seals, seven trumpets, and seven bowls, among others (Revelation 1-22)(Sayoud, 2015, p. 13). These sevens speak to the completeness of God’s plan for the world and the church, reminding us that even in times of tribulation, God’s purposes are being fulfilled.

The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, derived from Isaiah 11:2-3 and elaborated in Christian tradition, offer another powerful connection to the number 7. These gifts – wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord – represent the fullness of God’s empowering presence in our lives.

As we reflect on these events and concepts, let us remember that they are not isolated occurrences, but part of a grand tapestry woven by our loving Creator. Each instance of 7 in Scripture invites us to look deeper, to see beyond the surface and recognize the hand of God at work in history and in our own lives.

May these biblical sevens inspire us to seek completeness in our faith, to trust in the perfection of God’s plan, and to strive for the wholeness that comes from aligning our lives with divine wisdom. Let us approach Scripture with reverence and wonder, always open to the transformative power of God’s Word.

How is the number 7 used symbolically in the Bible?

In the biblical tradition, the number 7 is often used to represent completeness, perfection, and the fullness of God’s work(Sayoud, 2015, p. 13). This symbolism is not arbitrary, but rooted in the very fabric of creation, where God completed His work in seven days. From this foundation, the symbolic use of 7 extends throughout Scripture, offering us insights into the nature of God and His relationship with humanity.

One of the most major symbolic uses of 7 is in representing divine completeness or perfection. We see this in the seven days of creation, the seven seals in Revelation, and the seven churches addressed in the same book(Sayoud, 2015, p. 13). Each of these instances points to the totality of God’s work and the perfection of His plan. When we encounter the number 7 in Scripture, we are invited to reflect on the completeness of God’s actions and the all-encompassing nature of His love and wisdom.

The number 7 is also used to symbolize the covenant between God and His people. In the Old Testament, we find the seven-branched menorah in the Tabernacle and later in the Temple, serving as a constant reminder of God’s presence and the covenant relationship(Sayoud, 2015, p. 13). This use of 7 encourages us to reflect on our own relationship with God and the ways in which we are called to be faithful to the covenant He has established with us through Christ.

In prophetic literature, particularly in the Book of Daniel and Revelation, the number 7 is often used in apocalyptic visions to symbolize the fullness of time and the completion of God’s plan for history(Sayoud, 2015, p. 13). These symbolic uses remind us that, even in times of tribulation or uncertainty, God remains in control and is working towards the ultimate fulfillment of His purposes.

The symbolic use of 7 extends to the concept of forgiveness and mercy. When Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive his brother, Jesus responds with “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22). This is not a literal instruction to count to 490, but a powerful symbol of limitless forgiveness, reflecting the boundless mercy of God towards us.

In the sacramental life of the Church, we find the symbolism of 7 in the seven sacraments, each representing a unique way in which God’s grace is made present in our lives. This use of 7 reminds us of the completeness of God’s provision for our spiritual journey and the diverse ways in which He meets us in our need.

As we reflect on these symbolic uses of 7 in Scripture, let us remember that they are not mere literary devices, but invitations to deeper understanding and faith. Each instance of 7 calls us to look beyond the surface, to contemplate the perfection of God’s ways, and to trust in the completeness of His plan for our lives and for all of creation.

May the symbolic use of 7 in the Bible inspire us to seek wholeness in our own lives, to trust more fully in God’s perfect will, and to open our hearts to the transformative power of His grace. Let us approach these symbols with reverence and wonder, always ready to be surprised by the depth of God’s wisdom and love revealed in His holy Word.

What does the number 7 represent in terms of God’s nature or attributes?

The number 7 in the Bible represents God’s perfection and completeness. We see this most clearly in the account of creation, where God completes His work in seven days, declaring it “very good” (Genesis 1:31). This use of 7 reveals to us a God who is perfect in His actions, complete in His purposes, and utterly satisfied with His creation. It invites us to trust in the perfection of God’s plan, even when we cannot fully comprehend it.

The recurrence of 7 throughout Scripture also points to God’s covenant faithfulness. In the rainbow that appears after the flood, God sets His bow in the clouds as a sign of His covenant, and tradition identifies seven colors in this bow (Genesis 9:13-16). This symbolism reminds us that God is unchanging in His promises, faithful to His word, and steadfast in His love for His creation. It challenges us to respond with equal faithfulness to His call in our lives.

The number 7 represents God’s holiness. In the vision of Isaiah, the seraphim cry out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty” (Isaiah 6:3), a threefold declaration that in Hebrew implies completeness. This triple repetition, totaling to the divine number 7, emphasizes the absolute and perfect holiness of God. It calls us to strive for holiness in our own lives, recognizing that we are called to reflect God’s character to the world.

The creative and generative nature of God is also reflected in the symbolism of 7. Just as God created the world in seven days, the ongoing work of creation and renewal is often associated with cycles of seven in Scripture. This reminds us that God is not a distant deity, but an active and engaged Creator, continually working in the world and in our lives to bring about renewal and transformation.

In the New Testament, we see the number 7 associated with God’s perfect wisdom and knowledge. The Book of Revelation, with its numerous sevens, reveals a God who has complete understanding of history and perfect wisdom in His judgments(Sayoud, 2015, p. 13). This aspect of 7 encourages us to trust in God’s wisdom, even when we face situations that perplex us or challenge our understanding.

The mercy and forgiveness of God are also beautifully represented through the symbolism of 7. When Jesus tells Peter to forgive “seventy times seven” (Matthew 18:22), He is revealing the boundless nature of God’s own forgiveness. This use of 7 shows us a God whose mercy is not limited or conditional, but perfect and complete in its expression.

Finally, the number 7 represents the all-encompassing nature of God’s presence and power. In Revelation, we read of seven spirits before God’s throne (Revelation 1:4), symbolizing the fullness and universality of the Holy Spirit’s presence. This reminds us that there is no aspect of our lives or of creation that is beyond God’s reach or outside His care.

As we reflect on these representations of God’s nature through the number 7, let us be filled with wonder and gratitude. Let us marvel at the perfection, faithfulness, holiness, creativity, wisdom, mercy, and omnipresence of our God. May these reflections deepen our faith, strengthen our trust, and inspire us to live lives that more fully reflect the divine attributes we have contemplated.

In all things, may we seek to know and love this perfect God more deeply, recognizing that in His sevenfold completeness, He has provided all that we need for life and godliness. Let us go forth, bearing witness to the perfect love and grace of our God, revealed to us in the richness of His holy Word.

How does the symbolism of blue in the Bible compare to its meaning in ancient Near Eastern cultures?

The color blue, holds a special place in both biblical symbolism and the cultures of the ancient Near East. In our sacred scriptures, blue often represents the heavenly realm, the divine presence, and the faithful obedience to God’s commandments. This celestial association is not unique to our tradition, but finds resonance in many of the cultures surrounding ancient Israel.

In the Bible, we see blue prominently featured in the construction of the Tabernacle and the garments of the high priest. The Lord instructs Moses, “you shall make the tabernacle with ten curtains of fine twined linen and blue and purple and scarlet yarns” (Exodus 26:1). This divine blue, tekhelet in Hebrew, was a precious dye derived from sea snails, symbolizing the rarified nature of God’s presence among His people.

Similarly, in ancient Near Eastern cultures, blue was often associated with the divine and the celestial realm. In ancient Egypt, for example, the god Amun was often depicted with blue skin, representing his cosmic nature and association with the air and sky. The lapis lazuli stone, prized for its deep blue color, was used in royal and religious contexts throughout Mesopotamia and Egypt, signifying divine favor and heavenly connection.

But we must note a crucial distinction. While these ancient cultures often associated blue with specific deities or cosmic forces, our biblical tradition uses blue to point towards the one true God, the Creator of heaven and earth. The blue in the Tabernacle and priestly garments does not represent God Himself, but rather serves as a reminder of His heavenly dwelling and His covenant with Israel.

In both biblical and Near Eastern contexts, blue was also associated with royalty and authority. The expensive nature of blue dye made it a symbol of status and power. Yet in the Bible, this royal blue is democratized in a sense – all Israelites were commanded to wear blue tassels on their garments as a reminder of God’s commandments (Numbers 15:38-39). This illustrates how our faith takes common cultural symbols and imbues them with new, spiritually powerful meanings.

It’s important to recognize, that the ancient world did not always have distinct terms for blue as we understand it today. Linguistic studies suggest that many ancient languages, including biblical Hebrew, did not have a specific word for blue, often grouping it with other dark or cool colors(Kuttner, 1960, pp. 220–220). This reminds us to approach these color symbolisms with humility, recognizing that our modern perceptions may not perfectly align with ancient understandings.

Despite these complexities, we can see that blue in both biblical and Near Eastern contexts pointed towards the transcendent, the divine, and the authoritative. Yet our faith takes these common cultural associations and refines them, using blue not to represent a pantheon of gods or cosmic forces, but to remind us of the one true God’s heavenly dwelling, His commandments, and His covenant with His people.

What role does blue play in biblical descriptions of heaven or the divine realm?

In the book of Exodus, we encounter a remarkable vision of the divine realm. When Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel ascended Mount Sinai, we read: “and they saw the God of Israel. There was under his feet as it were a pavement of sapphire stone, like the very heaven for clearness” (Exodus 24:10). This sapphire pavement, with its deep blue hue, represents the boundary between earth and heaven, the human and the divine. It speaks to us of the transcendent nature of God, yet also His desire to reveal Himself to His people.

The prophet Ezekiel, in his visionary experiences, also employs the imagery of blue to describe the throne of God. He writes, “And above the expanse over their heads there was the likeness of a throne, in appearance like sapphire” (Ezekiel 1:26). Here again, the blue of sapphire is associated with God’s sovereign rule and heavenly court. It conveys a sense of awe and wonder, reminding us of the vast difference between our earthly existence and the celestial realm.

In the New Testament, the apostle John’s vision of the New Jerusalem in Revelation includes precious stones of various colors, including blue. He describes the foundations of the city wall as being “adorned with every kind of jewel. The first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate…” (Revelation 21:19). The inclusion of sapphire in this heavenly architecture further reinforces the association of blue with the divine realm and the eternal kingdom of God.

It’s important to note, that these descriptions are not meant to be taken literally, but rather to evoke in us a sense of the beauty, purity, and majesty of God’s presence. The blue of sapphire and the clarity of the sky serve as metaphors for the perfection and transparency of heaven, where nothing is hidden and God’s glory is fully revealed.

The use of blue in these heavenly visions connects back to the earthly Tabernacle and Temple, where blue played a prominent role in the furnishings and priestly garments. This connection reminds us that our worship on earth is a reflection and foretaste of the heavenly worship that awaits us. As the author of Hebrews tells us, the earthly sanctuary was “a copy and shadow of the heavenly things” (Hebrews 8:5).

The blue of heaven also speaks to us of God’s faithfulness and the permanence of His covenant. Just as the blue sky stretches unchanging above us, so God’s love and promises remain steadfast. The prophet Isaiah declares, “For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed, says the Lord, who has compassion on you” (Isaiah 54:10).

In our modern world, where we can see images of the vast blue expanse of our planet from space, we are perhaps even more attuned to the symbolic power of blue as a representation of the divine realm. This cosmic perspective can deepen our appreciation for the biblical imagery and remind us of our place within God’s grand creation.

Are there any prophetic or eschatological meanings associated with the color blue in the Bible?

In the prophetic literature, blue often appears in visions of the divine realm, hinting at the future glory that awaits God’s people. The prophet Ezekiel, in his vision of the heavenly throne, describes “a likeness as the appearance of a man” seated on a throne that looked like lapis lazuli, a deep blue stone (Ezekiel 1:26). This image of the blue throne reappears in Ezekiel 10:1, reinforcing the association of blue with God’s sovereign rule and the promise of His coming kingdom.

The eschatological significance of blue is perhaps most vividly portrayed in the book of Revelation. In John’s vision of the New Jerusalem, he describes the city’s foundations as being adorned with precious stones, including sapphire (Revelation 21:19). This blue gemstone, along with others, represents the eternal beauty and perfection of God’s dwelling place with His people. It speaks to us of the hope we have in Christ – that one day we will dwell in a place of unimaginable splendor, where the blue of sapphire reflects the purity and clarity of our relationship with God.

The blue expanse of the “sea of glass, like crystal” before God’s throne (Revelation 4:6) evokes images of tranquility and transparency in the divine presence. This eschatological sea, unlike the tumultuous waters often associated with chaos in the Old Testament, represents the peace and stability of God’s eternal kingdom. It reminds us that in the fullness of time, all that disturbs and threatens us will be calmed by the power of our Lord. The glass symbolism in religious texts is a powerful reminder of the purity and clarity of God’s nature. It serves as a visual representation of the unshakable peace and righteousness found in the presence of God. Just as we are drawn to the beauty and serenity of crystal-clear waters, so too are we drawn to the tranquility and hope found in the promises of God’s kingdom.

While not explicitly mentioned as blue, the “firmament” or expanse described in prophetic visions (such as in Ezekiel 1:22-26) is often associated with the blue of the sky. This heavenly expanse, seen in prophetic visions, points towards the day when “the sky vanished like a scroll being rolled up” (Revelation 6:14), signaling the dramatic transformation of creation at the end of the age.

It’s important to note, that the prophetic and eschatological use of blue is not about the color itself, but about what it represents. Blue, in these contexts, often symbolizes the heavenly realm, divine authority, and the faithfulness of God. When we encounter blue in prophetic passages, we are being invited to lift our eyes from earthly concerns to heavenly realities, to set our hope fully on the grace that will be brought to us at the revelation of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:13).

The prophet Isaiah, though not specifically mentioning blue, uses the imagery of the heavens to speak of God’s faithfulness and the coming restoration: “For as the new heavens and the new earth that I make shall remain before me, says the Lord, so shall your offspring and your name remain” (Isaiah 66:22). The enduring blue of the sky becomes a testament to God’s enduring promises.

In our reflection on these prophetic and eschatological meanings, we must remember that color symbolism in the Bible is not a rigid code, but a fluid and evocative language that speaks to the heart as much as to the mind. The blue of prophecy and eschatology invites us to hope, to trust in God’s sovereignty, and to anticipate the day when we will see Him face to face. The biblical interpretation of orange color, often associated with fire and passion, reminds us of the urgency of spreading the Gospel and the importance of fervent prayer. Just as the color orange is a combination of red and yellow, blending passion and joy, so too our faith should be a vibrant combination of zealous proclamation and joyful celebration. The use of color symbolism in the Bible encourages us to engage our entire selves in the journey of faith, allowing the visual language to deepen our spiritual understanding and enliven our relationship with God.

As we go about our daily lives, may the blue of the sky above us serve as a constant reminder of these prophetic promises and eschatological hopes. Let it call to mind the throne of God, the New Jerusalem, and the sea of glass – all pointing to the glorious future that awaits us in Christ. And may this heavenly blue inspire us to live as people of hope, bearing witness to the coming kingdom in all we do and say.

In this way, the prophetic and eschatological meanings of blue become not just ancient symbols, but living realities that shape our present and future. May we, like the prophets of old, lift our eyes to the blue heavens and see there the promise of God’s faithful love and the hope of our eternal home.

How has the interpretation of blue’s biblical symbolism evolved in Christian tradition?

The interpretation of blue’s biblical symbolism has undergone a fascinating journey throughout Christian tradition, reflecting the dynamic nature of our faith and the ever-deepening understanding of God’s revelation. As we explore this evolution, let us remember that our tradition is like a great river, fed by many streams of insight and illumination over the centuries.

In the early Church, the fathers and mothers of our faith began to expand upon the biblical symbolism of blue. They saw in it not only the representation of heaven, as directly stated in Scripture, but also began to associate it with spiritual virtues and the life of faith. St. Jerome, in his commentaries, linked the blue of the high priest’s robe to the air and the mysteries of heaven, encouraging believers to set their minds on things above(Kim, 2003, pp. 377–387).

As Christian art and iconography developed, particularly in the Byzantine tradition, blue became increasingly associated with the Virgin Mary. The use of expensive blue pigments in depictions of Mary’s mantle symbolized her exalted status as the Mother of God, while also recalling the blue of heaven and her role as a bridge between earth and the divine realm. This association would become deeply ingrained in Christian visual culture, influencing how believers perceived and interpreted the color blue in religious contexts.

During the Middle Ages, the symbolism of blue in Christian tradition became more complex and nuanced. The 12th-century abbot Suger, in his renovation of the Abbey of Saint-Denis, used blue stained glass to create what he called “lux nova” or “new light,” believing that the beauty of colored light could elevate the soul towards contemplation of God. This marked a shift towards understanding blue not just as a symbol, but as a means of spiritual experience(Velasco, 2020).

The medieval period also saw the development of elaborate color symbolism in liturgical vestments. Blue, though not one of the primary liturgical colors, came to be associated with feasts of the Virgin Mary in some regions, further cementing its connection to her in popular piety. This practice continues in some places to this day, reminding us of the enduring power of such symbolic associations.

As we move into the Renaissance and beyond, we see a growing interest in the natural world and scientific understanding. This influenced the interpretation of blue’s biblical symbolism, with some theologians and artists drawing parallels between the blue of the sky and the omnipresence of God, or the blue of water and the life-giving nature of divine grace.

In more recent times, particularly with the advent of modern biblical scholarship, there has been a renewed interest in understanding the original context and meaning of blue in Scripture. Scholars have delved into the production of the biblical blue dye, tekhelet, and its cultural significance in ancient Israel. This has led to a deeper appreciation of how blue symbolized not just heaven, but also the commandments of God and the special covenant relationship between God and His people(Kim, 2003, pp. 377–387).

Contemporary Christian thought has also begun to explore the psychological and emotional associations of blue, recognizing its calming and contemplative qualities. Some modern spiritual writers have suggested that the biblical use of blue can speak to our need for peace and reflection in a busy world, inviting us to enter into the tranquil presence of God.

The ecological crisis of our times has prompted some theologians to revisit the symbolism of blue in light of our responsibility as stewards of creation. The blue of our planet, visible from space, has become a powerful symbol of the fragility and beauty of God’s creation, calling us to care for our common home.

It’s important to note, that while these interpretations have evolved, they have not replaced the fundamental biblical symbolism of blue as representing heaven and the divine presence. Rather, they have enriched and expanded our understanding, allowing the symbolism to speak to different aspects of our faith and life.

As we reflect on this evolution, let us remember that our tradition is not static, but alive and growing. The Holy Spirit continues to guide the Church into all truth, as our Lord promised (John 16:13). The evolving interpretation of blue’s symbolism is a beautiful example of how our faith remains ever ancient and ever new, speaking to each generation in fresh and relevant ways.

May we, as inheritors of this rich tradition, continue to find in the blue of sky and sea, of art and liturgy, a reminder of God’s presence, Mary’s fiat, the call to contemplation, and our responsibility to creation. Let us be open to how the Spirit may be using this ancient symbolism to speak to us today, always rooting our interpretations in Scripture and the living tradition of the Church. Just as the blue of the sky and sea holds deep spiritual significance, so too do the biblical symbolism of roses. In the rose, we find echoes of the beauty of God’s creation, the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection, and the steadfast love of the Virgin Mary. Let us seek to uncover the layers of meaning within these symbols and allow them to deepen our faith and inspire us in our daily lives.

What practical applications can Christians draw from the biblical symbolism of blue for their faith and daily lives?

The biblical symbolism of blue offers us a vast web of meaning from which we can draw practical applications for our faith and daily lives. As we reflect on this heavenly hue, let us consider how it can inspire and guide us in our journey of discipleship.

The association of blue with the sky and heaven can serve as a constant reminder to “set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:2). In our modern world, filled with distractions and earthly concerns, the simple act of looking up at the blue sky can become a moment of spiritual recalibration. Let the blue above us prompt us to pause, even if briefly, to remember our true citizenship in heaven and to align our thoughts and actions with God’s will.

The use of blue in the Tabernacle and the high priest’s garments reminds us of our call to holiness and obedience. Just as the Israelites were commanded to wear blue tassels as a reminder of God’s commandments (Numbers 15:38-39), we too can use visual cues in our environment to remind us of our covenant relationship with God.

Bibliography:

Detweiler, C. (2017). Divine Film Comedies: Biblical Narratives, Film Sub-Genres, and the Comic Spirit. Journal of Religion & Film.

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