Vermilion
“A red pigment, possibly meaning variegated or red”
Summary
Vermilion was a bright red pigment used in ancient times for decorating temples and painting idolatrous images, mentioned by Jeremiah and Ezekiel.
☩Nature and Use
The Hebrew shasher, rendered 'vermilion,' was probably red ochre or cinnabar. This metallic paint was first brought into use by the Phoenicians, who imported large quantities from North Africa. Its bright-red color recommended it for decorating temples and palaces, as Jeremiah notes of those who 'painteth it with vermilion.' The prophet's accuracy is confirmed by excavated Assyrian monuments, where Botta found figures at Khorsabad still retaining vermilion coloring.
☩Association with Idolatry
Vermilion was often associated with idolatry in Scripture. Ezekiel describes Aholibah (representing Jerusalem) as doting upon images of Chaldeans 'portrayed with vermilion, girded with girdles upon their loins.' These were representations of Chaldean idols that seduced many Jews into false worship. The apocryphal Wisdom of Solomon also mentions the practice of coloring carved idols with vermilion. The British Museum preserves Assyrian slabs with figures still showing red-colored sandal soles.