In both the Old Testament and the New Testament, angels are at times described as appearing in white or shining garments. The imagery of white apparel is often connected with purity, holiness, glory, and the presence of God.
Old Testament Examples
While the Old Testament does not frequently use the exact phrase “white apparel” for angels, there are descriptions of heavenly beings in bright or white garments.
Daniel 10:5–6 (NKJV)
“I lifted my eyes and looked, and behold, a certain man clothed in linen, whose waist was girded with gold of Uphaz! His body was like beryl, his face like the appearance of lightning…”
The “man clothed in linen” is commonly understood to be an angelic messenger or heavenly being. Linen garments in Scripture are often associated with purity and priestly holiness.
Ezekiel 9:2–3 (NKJV)
“…and one man among them was clothed with linen and had a writer’s inkhorn at his side…”
Again, this heavenly messenger is clothed in linen, symbolizing purity and divine service.
New Testament Examples
The New Testament gives clearer descriptions of angels in white apparel.
Matthew 28:2–3 (NKJV)
At the resurrection of Christ:
“…His countenance was like lightning, and his clothing as white as snow.”
This angel at the tomb is explicitly described as wearing dazzling white clothing.
Mark 16:5 (NKJV)
“And entering the tomb, they saw a young man clothed in a long white robe sitting on the right side…”
This “young man” is understood to be an angelic messenger.
John 20:12 (NKJV)
“And she saw two angels in white sitting…”
A direct statement that angels appeared in white.
Acts 1:10 (NKJV)
At Christ’s ascension:
“…behold, two men stood by them in white apparel.”
These are understood to be angels.
Symbolism of White Garments in Scripture
White garments consistently symbolize:
Purity
Righteousness
Holiness
Heavenly glory
Victory
This symbolism is also applied to Christ, glorified saints, and heavenly worshippers.
For example:
Revelation 19:8 (NKJV)
“…fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.”
So when angels appear in white apparel, it visually reflects the holiness and glory of heaven.
There is also an interesting connection between angels and redeemed believers: both are often depicted in white garments in heavenly scenes, though angels themselves are never said to be redeemed by Christ as humans are.