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The Significance of Color in Church Vestments

Color symbolism is ripe in the world, in everything from art to fashion to architecture. It should come an as little surprise to you, then, that there is a history of color symbolism in church vestments as well. To those that are familiar with the origins of some of these vestments, it won’t come as a surprise, but for others, it might be a bit of a shock.

It isn’t all about the import of a color insomuch as it produces an effect on the viewer. A lot of the colors that are present in church garments really have their roots in the historical symbolism of color. Check out some of these colors and what they represent.

Black

It is very common to see vestments in the color black. Cassocks and robes, for example, are often black and there are a few reasons for this. Despite what you might think, it goes far beyond the simple use of these colors at times of mourning, such as at funerals.

Specifically, many vestments are colored black because black is seen as an austere color, which is also the reason that some reserve black for mourning. Black, as the color of austerity, serves as a reminder that priests have secular as well as holy duties.

Therefore black is a reminder of the somber duties of clergymen, that they are a part of the Earth as separated from the purity of God’s Kingdom, and they should front that presentation.

White

Although white is a color of mourning in many cultures, in the Western church white symbolizes the purity of divine love and the promise of redemption. That is why so many garments, such as surplices and albs, are colored white, although it is not uncommon to find robes that are chiefly white as well.

White, unlike black which is a reminder of austerity, is a symbol of hope and purity. It is a reminder of the purity of the divine love that offers the hope of salvation.

Blue and Purple

The ancient Phoenicians wore purple because it was expensive to produce, and that tradition has cultivated an impression of “royal purple” in the minds of contemporary thinkers. It is a stigma that the color has not been able to escape. Blue, on the same note, is another color associated with wealth and royalty. Blue and purple, then, represents the kingliness of the Messiah.

Red

Red is the color of fire but also, and most importantly, the color of blood. As wine is offered in the Eucharist as a representation of the Savior’s blood, so does the color red symbolize how the savior’s blood was offered in exchange for our salvation. For this reason, red robes and vestments are not uncommon.

Gold

Gold, like purple and blue, is a Kingly color and a royal one. It is often used in church vestments because it catches the eye, but it also offers an undeniable link to richness and glory. It is a reminder of the waiting promise of salvation.

If you want a break from the constant onslaught of black and white vestments that you will see basically everything and want to find something new, then check out Divinity Clergy Wear. Divinity Clergy Wear, which you can shop from their website at DivinityClergyWear.com or in their showroom in Hamilton, New Jersey, offers a plethora of vestments in an assortment of color for all preferences and times of the year.

Check out their website where they offer a wide collection of vestments for men and women, including clergy shirts and even preaching dresses for ladies. They’ll leave you wanting little, and for anything you can’t find, you can call up their team at 877-453-3535.

For more information about Clergy Jackets and Clergy Robes for Men Please visit: Divinity Clergy Wear.

James Barker

James Barker has over 5 years of experience in Digital Marketing like SEO, SMO, ASO ORM & Google Ads. He holds a sound understanding of technical requirements/problem analysis and resolution for providing the best solutions to clients.

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