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Who is the Saint That Wears Purple?

Published in Saint Lydia Purple 2 mins read

The saint most prominently associated with the color purple is Saint Lydia. Her connection to purple stems directly from her profession as a dealer in purple cloth, a valuable and prestigious trade in ancient times.

The Biblical Figure: Lydia of Thyatira

Saint Lydia appears in the biblical narrative in the Book of Acts, specifically Acts 16:13-15. She is described as a woman from Thyatira, a city renowned for its textile dyes, especially purple. This trade was highly lucrative, indicating her significant social and economic standing.

In the biblical account, Lydia is found by the Apostle Paul and his companions in Philippi, a city in Macedonia. She was among a group of women gathered for prayer by a river outside the city gate. Paul preached to them, and Lydia listened intently.

  • Her Profession: She was a "seller of purple goods," a trade that involved the rare and costly purple dye, often extracted from murex snails. This made purple fabrics a symbol of wealth, royalty, and high status.
  • Her Household: Lydia was also the head of her own household, a testament to her independence and influence in her community.
  • Her Conversion and Hospitality: After hearing Paul's message, Lydia chose to be baptized along with her entire household. She then extended an invitation to Paul and his companions to stay at her home, demonstrating profound hospitality and a new commitment to the nascent Christian faith.

Lydia's Enduring Legacy

Lydia is venerated as a saint in various Christian traditions, recognized for her faith, hospitality, and significant role as one of the earliest converts in Europe. Her association with purple has made her a patron saint for various groups.

Key Facts About Saint Lydia

Attribute Description
Biblical Reference Acts 16:13-15
Primary Association Purple cloth trade
Feast Day January 27
Key Actions Heard Paul preach, converted, baptized, offered hospitality to missionaries
Patronage (Traditional) Dyers, merchants, businesswomen, hospitality workers, first European converts

Her story highlights the early spread of Christianity and the vital role women played in its establishment. Saint Lydia's life serves as an example of faith, enterprise, and generosity, forever linking her name with the rich and vibrant color of purple.