The dove is a significant symbol and creature within the biblical narrative, appearing in various contexts throughout the Scriptures. It is often associated with peace, purity, and the Holy Spirit, serving as a powerful emblem in both the Old and New Testaments.

Old Testament References

1. Noah's Ark: The dove first appears in the account of Noah's Ark in Genesis. After the flood, Noah sends out a dove to see if the waters have receded. The dove returns with an olive leaf, indicating that the waters had abated and that new life was emerging on the earth. This event is recorded in Genesis 8:11: "And behold, the dove returned to him in the evening with a freshly plucked olive leaf in its mouth. So Noah knew that the waters had receded from the earth." The dove here symbolizes hope and the promise of new beginnings.

2. Sacrificial System: In the Mosaic Law, doves were used as offerings, particularly for those who could not afford more expensive animals. Leviticus 1:14 states, "If, however, one’s offering to the LORD is a burnt offering of birds, he is to present a turtledove or a young pigeon." This provision underscores the dove's role in the sacrificial system, symbolizing purity and atonement.

3. Song of Solomon: The dove is also mentioned in the poetic and romantic imagery of the Song of Solomon. In Song of Solomon 2:14, the beloved is compared to a dove: "O my dove in the clefts of the rock, in the hiding places of the mountainside, show me your face, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet, and your face is lovely." Here, the dove represents beauty, gentleness, and love.

New Testament References

1. Baptism of Jesus: One of the most significant appearances of the dove in the New Testament is at the baptism of Jesus. The Holy Spirit descends upon Jesus in the form of a dove, as recorded in Matthew 3:16: "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. Suddenly the heavens were opened, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and resting on Him." This event marks the beginning of Jesus' public ministry and signifies the presence and approval of God.

2. Symbol of Innocence: Jesus uses the imagery of the dove to instruct His disciples in Matthew 10:16: "Behold, I am sending you out like sheep among wolves; therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves." The dove here symbolizes innocence and purity, qualities that Jesus encourages His followers to embody.

Symbolism and Interpretation

Throughout the Bible, the dove is a multifaceted symbol. It represents peace, as seen in the account of Noah; purity and atonement, as reflected in the sacrificial laws; and the presence of the Holy Spirit, as demonstrated at Jesus' baptism. The dove's gentle and innocent nature is also highlighted in the teachings of Jesus, serving as a model for Christian conduct.

The dove's recurring presence in Scripture underscores its importance as a symbol of divine interaction and spiritual truth. Its role in biblical narratives and teachings continues to inspire and instruct believers in their faith journey.