What was the colour of the robe placed on Jesus?

The color of the robe that was placed on Jesus during his mock trial is a fascinating detail that some might overlook amid the fullness of the crucifixion narrative. In John 19:2, the purple robe symbolically represents royalty, a cruel irony given the humiliation he faced. Historically, purple dye was rare and costly, often associated with wealth and power—think about the affluent cities like Tyre, which produced a rich, royal purple from murex snails. The choice to adorn Jesus in such a color adds an intriguing layer to the story as it highlights the mocking nature of his executioners—parading him as a "king."

Matthew’s mention of scarlet hints at a different connotation. Scarlet speaks to vibrancy and blood, linking to the sacrificial life Jesus led, analogous to lambs without blemish that bear the sins of their people. Both robes evoke potent imagery that transcends mere colors—they're about identity, perception, and role. This thematic duality echoes throughout Canvas of the Passion, where the moments pivot between suffering and regal imagery.

Trivia buffs will be intrigued to know that colors like purple were also used in the Jewish temple, particularly on the veils—a thread entwined with notions of divinity and approachability in sacred spaces. So next time you encounter the stories surrounding the cross, remember that robes, like words, choose to dress deeper meanings!