Ocher is the most elegant variety of yellow. Its etymology has a lot to do with lighting, since it derives from the Latin “ochra”, which in turn comes from the Greek word “okhros”, which translates as yellow. Therefore, ocher represents joy and radiance. Although, on the other hand, it is also associated with doubt, instability and betrayal.
Regarding its tone, ocher is the standard name for orange-yellow, which appears semi-saturated and clear, and has the appearance of the chromatic pigment of iron oxide. This color has been used since ancient times in countless artistic representations, including ocher being the tone that most predominates in cave paintings. In this Psychology-Online article, we will present the meaning of the color ocher in psychology. Discover its spiritual meaning, as well as its interpretation in marketing and in the Bible.
What is the meaning of the color ocher
Ocher is not a single color, but a series of shades called ochraceous. It is a pigmentation that has been used for millennia for body painting and for different works of art throughout history. So much so that Its use dates back to prehistory as the dominant color in rock arts.
According to , ocher evokes strong feelings, as it is capable of quickly capturing attention. On the one hand, it seems like a warm and delicate color. However, if it occurs in excess, it causes fatigue and visual fatigue.
What does the ocher color convey?
Its meaning is related to intensity, luminosity and constancy. In fact, it is common for the ocher tone to be achieved in mining and on large lands, which is why it is associated with abundance. Furthermore, due to its proximity to brown, it is also related to spiritual balance.
Due to the visual impact it causes, in decoration ocher is a symbol of elegance, sobriety and sophistication. Furthermore, when mixed with white it symbolizes fear or cowardice. Likewise, the meaning of the color ocher in psychology is associated with the following feelings, emotions and moods:
- .
- Vitality.
- Energy.
- Haughtiness.
- Pride.
- Persistence.
- Union.
- Lasting memories.
- Aggressiveness, when it occurs in a strong and exaggerated tone.
- Optimism.
- Fidelity and respect, since it is a color that lasts over time.
Spiritual meaning of the color ocher
If you are wondering what the spiritual meaning of the color ocher is, since prehistory ocher has been related to the divine and the spiritual essence. Furthermore, it is the materialization of attachment to earthly space and to the comfort of life rooted in the area in which one lives.
This symbolism allowed the ancestors to reflect part of their culture and traditions through cave painting, where ocher was the main tone. In the same way, ocher has to do with the autumn warmth and with him inner balance which is achieved by being at peace with one’s own personality.
Next, we tell you the spiritual meaning of the color ocher, according to different cultures:
- In ancient Egypt: the red ocher pigment represented the strength of the pharaohs. In fact, it was the most used shade for the decorations of palaces and tombs. Therefore, it is present in different archaeological remains in almost all its nuances. Its use also extended to papyrus inscriptions, which is why it is associated with wisdom, permanence and stability.
- In the Roman Empire: at this historical stage it was related to spiritual ascension and the ancient gods. This is because it is a direct variant of yellow which, in turn, derives from , typical of wealth and divinity.
- In Mexican cosmology: golden ocher is the symbol of new life that sprouts from the ground. Therefore, it represents the beginning of the rainy season in which everything turns green again after the summer.
- In Greek mythology: in this culture the color ocher was related to the personification of wisdom. Likewise, it represented the ancient gods, especially because of the direct relationship it has with them.
Meaning of the color ocher in advertising
Due to the sobriety of ocher in any of its shades, the meaning of the color ocher within marketing is related to prestige, elegance and distinction. This makes many brands use it within their color palette because it reflects balance and stability. Usually, in advertising, ocher is used to highlight the vitality, freshness and energy that offers any product or service.
Coupled with that, ocher is used very frequently for decorationsince it can be combined very well with other ranges of colors to enhance spaces. For example, for dimly lit rooms, it is perfect for increasing lighting and, when combined with white, creates a splendid relaxing effect.
If you want more information about this area, we recommend this article on .
Meaning of the color ocher in the Bible
Ocher is presented in the Bible as one of the colors associated with the grace of God, due to its direct relationship with yellow. It also has to do with praise and worship, since, according to the Bible, the tabernacle was a golden ocher color.
Another meaning of the color ocher in the Bible is its appearance in the construction of Solomon’s temple. In fact, it was a very predominant tone in the building. Likewise, the bronze snake that Moses raised in the Bible evokes the color ocher, so symbolizes God’s judgment and the divine will.
This article is merely informative, at Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.
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Bibliography
- Heller, Eva (2004). Color psychology. How colors act on feelings and reason. Ed. Gustavo Gili.
- Machaca, M. (2019). Color psychology in marketing. Malaga University. https://repositorio.upeu.edu.pe/handle/20.500.12840/2859
- Lehmann, R. (2010). The red ocher coating of prehistoric tombs and its meaning. Revised. Magazine of the La Plata Museum.