### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tᵉkêleth**, represented by `{{H8504}}`, refers to the color **blue**, a violet dye obtained from the cerulean mussel, or the material dyed with it. It appears 50 times across 49 unique verses in the Bible, primarily in contexts of sacred worship, priestly attire, and royalty.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H8504}}` is a prominent color used in the construction of the Tabernacle and its furnishings. It was a key component of the vail [[Exodus 26:31]], the curtains of the Tabernacle [[Exodus 26:1]], and the hangings for the doors and gates [[Exodus 27:16]]. The priests' holy garments, including the ephod, breastplate, and robe, were intricately made with **blue** thread, often combined with gold, purple, and scarlet ([[Exodus 28:6]], [[Exodus 28:31]]). Beyond the sanctuary, the LORD commanded the children of Israel to place a ribband of **blue** on the fringes of their garments as a reminder throughout their generations [[Numbers 15:38]]. The color also denoted high honor, as seen in the royal apparel of **blue** and white worn by Mordecai [[Esther 8:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are consistently found alongside `{{H8504}}`, forming a distinct palette for sacred and royal items:
* `{{H713}}` **'argâmân** (purple): This color is almost always mentioned in conjunction with blue and scarlet in the descriptions of the Tabernacle curtains and priestly garments [[Exodus 25:4]].
* `{{H8144}}` **shânîy** (scarlet): A crimson or scarlet color, it completes the trio of principal dyes used for holy fabrics, appearing alongside blue and purple in items like the ephod [[Exodus 28:8]].
* `{{H8438}}` **tôwlâʻ** (crimson): Often used to refer to the crimson grub or the color derived from it, it is paired with scarlet to describe the dyed materials for the vail and curtains [[Exodus 26:31]].
* `{{H8336}}` **shêsh** (fine linen): This was the primary material that was dyed, serving as the base for the blue, purple, and scarlet threads in the intricate weavings for the Tabernacle [[Exodus 35:25]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H8504}}` is demonstrated through its specific applications, which were dictated by divine command.
* **Sacred Craftsmanship:** The use of **blue** was part of the "cunning work" performed by artisans filled with wisdom of heart by God, such as the embroiderer Aholiab [[Exodus 38:23]] and the wise-hearted women who spun the threads [[Exodus 35:25]].
* **Holiness and Service:** Its inclusion in the "cloths of service" for ministry in the holy place underscores its connection to worship and divine presence. The robe of the ephod was made entirely of **blue** ([[Exodus 28:31]], [[Exodus 39:22]]).
* **Covenant Reminder:** The **blue** ribband on the fringe of the Israelites' garments was a perpetual, visual reminder for them to remember and do all the commandments of the LORD [[Numbers 15:38]].
* **Covering for Holy Items:** A cloth made wholly of **blue** was used to cover the ark of the testimony during transport, and **blue** cloths were also used to cover the table of shewbread, the candlestick, and the golden altar ([[Numbers 4:6]], [[Numbers 4:7]], [[Numbers 4:9]], [[Numbers 4:11]]).
### Summary
In summary, `{{H8504}}` is far more than a simple color descriptor. It is a divinely commanded element central to the worship and identity of Israel. Its consistent use in the Tabernacle, the priesthood's garments, and as a personal reminder on clothing establishes **blue** as a color signifying holiness, divine authority, and the covenant relationship between God and His people.
TRV