Revelation 18:16
And saying, Alas, alas that great city, that was clothed
in fine linen, and purple, and scarlet, and decked with gold, and precious
stones, and pearls!
The colours purple and scarlet have been historically
associated with power, wealth, and religious authority, particularly in the
context of Rome and the Vatican. White and gold are colours that have been
historically associated with purity, divinity, and wealth. This essay aims to analyse the significance of these colours to Rome, and their implications in a historical & theological context.
Purple
A colour often associated with royalty and nobility, has
been a significant emblem of power since ancient times. The Roman emperors, for
instance, were known for their use of the 'trabea', a ceremonial garment dyed
in Tyrian purple, which was considered the regalest of purples. This colour was
obtained from a species of sea snail, making it expensive and thus a symbol of
wealth and power. In the Catholic Church, purple is used during the seasons of
Advent and Lent, periods of waiting and penance, signifying the faithful's
preparation for the coming of Christ.
Scarlet
Scarlet on the other hand, is a vibrant, bold colour that
has been used to symbolise both sin and sacrifice in Christian theology. The
cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church, for example, wear scarlet as a symbol
of their willingness to shed their blood in defence of their faith. In the
Bible, scarlet is often used symbolically for blood and wine but more specifically in the Book of Revelation, where
it is associated with the Whore of Babylon (possibly superficial rouge makeup), often interpreted as a symbol of a
corrupt church or society.
White linen
Often associated with purity and innocence, this holds
a profound symbolic significance. In the Roman Catholic Church, white is used
during liturgical seasons such as Christmas and Easter, which celebrate the
birth and resurrection of Christ, respectively. It is also used during
sacraments like baptism and marriage, symbolising a new beginning and purity of
intent. Historically, in ancient Rome, white was associated with the goddess
Vesta, the virgin goddess of the hearth, home, and family.
Gold and precious jewels
On the other hand, is a colour that carries connotations of
wealth, divinity, and the divine light of God. The opulence of the Vatican,
with its golden adornments and richly decorated interiors, mirrors the wealth
and power of ancient Rome and the priesthood of Israel. In Christian
iconography, gold is often used to depict divine light or the radiance of
heaven. It is also used in the vestments of high-ranking clergy during
important liturgical celebrations, signifying the glory of God and the heavenly
reward for the faithful.
Conclusion
The Vatican, as the heart of the Roman Catholic Church, has
long been associated with these colours. The ceremonial robes of its highest
officials, cardinals, and bishops, are traditionally purple and scarlet
respectively, continuing the traditions of the Roman Empire. The Papal vestments are often white or gold,
particularly during high liturgical seasons, reflecting the purity and divinity
of Christ. The interiors of the Vatican, particularly the Sistine Chapel with
its golden ceiling, are a testament to this association.
The colours purple and scarlet, white linen, gold, and
precious jewels hold deep historical and symbolic significance in Rome and the
Vatican. Their interpretation can vary greatly depending on cultural,
historical, and individual contexts. They have been used in various cultures
and religions worldwide to symbolise a range of concepts, from wealth and power
to spiritual purity.