In the Bible, blood holds significant symbolic and literal importance. It represents life, sacrifice, and atonement. From the Old Testament’s animal sacrifices to the New Testament’s emphasis on the blood of Jesus as a symbol of salvation, blood is a powerful theme throughout scripture.
Intrigued by the biblical symbolism of blood? Explore its deep and varied meanings throughout scripture, from life and covenant to sacrifice and redemption.
What Does the Bible Say About Blood?
Blood in the Bible is a complex and multifaceted symbol. Its significance spans from the very essence of life to the core of Christian faith in the sacrifice of Jesus.
In the Old Testament, blood symbolizes life itself. Leviticus 17:11 states that the life of a creature is in its blood, a concept that underscores the sacredness of life. This view leads to various laws regarding the handling of blood, reflecting a deep respect for the life it represents.
Moreover, blood in the Old Testament is central to the practice of animal sacrifices. These sacrifices were a key aspect of atonement for sin. The shedding of blood, symbolizing the giving of life, was seen as necessary for the forgiveness of sins.
With the coming of Jesus, the New Testament transforms the symbolism of blood. Jesus’ blood, shed on the cross, becomes the ultimate sacrifice. This act fulfills the Old Testament sacrificial system and establishes a new covenant between God and humanity. The blood of Christ symbolizes the redemption of sin, offering believers salvation and a direct relationship with God.
The significance of Jesus’ blood is celebrated in Christian practices like Communion. In this sacrament, wine represents the blood of Christ, reminding believers of His sacrifice and their redemption through it.
Blood also symbolizes purification and sanctification in the New Testament. Through the blood of Jesus, believers are cleansed from sin and made holy before God. It’s a symbol of the new life and hope that comes from Jesus’ sacrifice.
In summary, the Bible presents blood as a symbol of life, sacrifice, covenant, and redemption. From the Old Testament’s animal sacrifices to the New Testament’s focus on Jesus’ blood, this theme is integral to understanding the Bible’s message about sin, salvation, and the relationship between God and humanity.
Bible Verses About Blood
- Leviticus 17:11: “For the life of a creature is in the blood, and I have given it to you to make atonement for yourselves on the altar; it is the blood that makes atonement for one’s life.” This verse lays the foundation for the significance of blood in the sacrificial system.
- Hebrews 9:22: “In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” This New Testament verse emphasizes the necessity of bloodshed for the forgiveness of sins, pointing to the sacrifice of Jesus.
- Matthew 26:28: “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” Jesus speaks these words during the Last Supper, establishing the new covenant through His blood.
- 1 John 1:7: “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” This verse highlights the purifying power of Jesus’ blood in the lives of believers.
- Revelation 12:11: “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.” Here, the blood of Christ is depicted as a means of victory over evil.
- Ephesians 1:7: “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” Paul speaks of redemption and forgiveness that come through the blood of Jesus.
- Hebrews 10:19: “Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus.” This verse speaks to the access believers have to God through the sacrifice of Jesus.
- Exodus 12:13: “The blood will be a sign for you on the houses where you are, and when I see the blood, I will pass over you.” In the Old Testament, the blood of the Passover lamb protected the Israelites from judgement, prefiguring the salvation through Christ’s blood.
- Romans 5:9: “Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!” Paul associates the blood of Jesus with justification and salvation from sin.
- John 6:53-54: “Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you.’” This verse, while symbolic, underscores the importance of Jesus’ sacrifice for spiritual life.
The Bible presents blood as a profound and multifaceted symbol. From representing life and the seriousness of sin in the Old Testament to symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice for redemption in the New Testament, blood carries deep spiritual significance. It reminds us of the sacredness of life, the necessity of atonement for sin, and the transformative power of Jesus’ sacrifice. Through the lens of the Bible, blood is not just a physical substance but a symbol of the covenant between God and humanity, a means of purification, and a pathway to salvation. Understanding the biblical symbolism of blood enriches our appreciation of the Christian faith and deepens our grasp of God’s plan for redemption and eternal life through Jesus Christ.