Topical Bible: Turtle Dove: Sent out from the Ark by Noah

◄ Turtle Dove: Sent out from the Ark by Noah ►

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The turtle dove, a small migratory bird known for its gentle nature and soft, mournful cooing, holds significant symbolism and mention within the Holy Scriptures. In the context of the Bible, the turtle dove is often associated with themes of purity, peace, and devotion.

Biblical References:

1. Noah and the Ark:
The turtle dove is notably mentioned in the account of Noah and the Ark, although it is the dove, in general, that is specifically highlighted in this narrative. After the great flood, Noah sent out a dove to determine if the waters had receded from the earth. The dove returned with an olive leaf, indicating that the waters had abated (Genesis 8:11). While the specific term "turtle dove" is not used in this passage, the dove's role in signaling the end of God's judgment and the restoration of peace to the earth is emblematic of the turtle dove's broader biblical symbolism.

2. Sacrificial Offerings:
The turtle dove is frequently mentioned in the context of sacrificial offerings. In the Mosaic Law, the turtle dove was one of the birds permitted for sacrifice, particularly for those who could not afford more costly offerings. Leviticus 1:14 states, "If, however, his offering to the LORD is a burnt offering of birds, he is to present a turtledove or a young pigeon." This provision underscores the accessibility of worship and atonement for all people, regardless of their economic status.

3. Symbol of Love and Devotion:
The Song of Solomon, a poetic book celebrating love and marriage, references the turtle dove as a symbol of love and fidelity. In Song of Solomon 2:12 , it is written, "The flowers have appeared in the countryside; the season of singing has come, and the cooing of turtledoves is heard in our land." Here, the turtle dove's gentle cooing is associated with the renewal of life and the blossoming of love.

4. Prophetic Imagery:
The turtle dove also appears in prophetic literature, symbolizing innocence and vulnerability. In Jeremiah 8:7 , the prophet laments the people's ignorance of God's laws, contrasting it with the natural instincts of birds: "Even the stork in the sky knows her appointed seasons, and the turtledove, swift, and thrush observe the time of their migration. But My people do not know the requirements of the LORD." This passage highlights the turtle dove's role as a creature attuned to divine order, in contrast to the waywardness of humanity.

Cultural and Theological Significance:

In biblical times, the turtle dove was a common sight in the land of Israel, known for its migratory patterns and gentle demeanor. Its presence in Scripture as a sacrificial animal and a symbol of peace and love reflects its cultural and religious significance. The turtle dove's role in sacrificial rites, particularly for the poor, emphasizes God's provision and inclusivity in worship. Its symbolic association with love and peace continues to resonate in Christian theology, representing the Holy Spirit's work in bringing reconciliation and harmony to creation.

The turtle dove's enduring presence in biblical literature and its rich symbolism offer a profound insight into the themes of sacrifice, love, and divine order that permeate the Scriptures.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 8:8-11
Also he sent forth a dove from him, to see if the waters were abated from off the face of the ground;
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Marvellous Increase of the Church
... I can recollect when, like a poor dove, sent out by Noah from ... the ark, and I saw
a hand put out from it ... I have not delivered the soul of my turtle dove into the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 2 1856/marvellous increase of the church.htm

Covenanting Provided for in the Everlasting Covenant.
... the ram for a burnt-offering; the turtle-dove and the ... in vision before Ezekiel about
to be sent to the ... the same people; through many ages pointed out that the ...
/.../cunningham/the ordinance of covenanting/chapter vi covenanting provided for.htm

Against Jovinianus.
... have elapsed since the holy brethren of Rome sent to me ... but after they sinned, and
were cast out of Paradise ... the animals which Noah took into the ark by pairs ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/against jovinianus.htm

Come and Welcome to Jesus Christ;
... [Consider] that of Ahab, when Benhadad sent to him ... fast; but, "and him that cometh
to me I will in no wise cast out." He saith ... Oh that I had wings like a dove! ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/come and welcome to jesus.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... Little did the poor tyrants who sent him to jail think ... that halteth, and gather her
that was driven out, and I ... is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm