Numbers 4:8Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The offerings at the meal, along with their blue coverings, are adorned in shades of deep purple and scarlet. The altar for offerings is similarly draped in scarlet, while the laver is also covered completely in purple and features blue coverings. The meal alongside the bread signifies the spiritual sacrifice, allowing us to partake in the bread that descends from heaven—namely Christ, who became like us yet remains God, who comes from above, sent from the Father and reigning over all as the King and Lord. A subtle suggestion of Christ’s royal stature can be observed in the scarlet robe laid upon the banquet, which symbolizes His royal authority. The altar was similarly cloaked in scarlet, and this scarlet garment points to blood, as Christ was offered for our sake. He ascended as the Lamb upon the Divine altar, rising as a pleasing aroma to God the Father.

Why did God instruct that certain sacred vessels be draped in blue while others were to be wrapped in scarlet? The valuable vessels were adorned exclusively with blue coverings, symbolizing the color of the heavens. Consequently, what lay within the veils was to be cloaked in blue, whereas what remained outside was to be enveloped in scarlet and similar hues; for the heavens do not incur punishment, but rather, it is the earth that bears the consequences of transgressing the laws. The scarlet fabric represents the kingdom, yet the kingdom of God is eternal and unchanging. Thus, the items outside the tabernacle were covered with both scarlet and blue veils.