Topical Bible: The Dove: Characterised by Comeliness of Countenance

◄ The Dove: Characterised by Comeliness of Countenance ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

The dove, a bird frequently mentioned in the Bible, is often associated with beauty, purity, and peace. Its comeliness of countenance is highlighted in various scriptural passages, symbolizing innocence and the gentle nature of the Holy Spirit.

Symbolism and Representation

In biblical literature, the dove is emblematic of several virtues and divine attributes. Its gentle and serene nature makes it a fitting symbol of the Holy Spirit. This is most notably seen during the baptism of Jesus, where the Holy Spirit descends upon Him in the form of a dove. The Gospel of Matthew records, "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" (Matthew 3:16). This imagery underscores the dove's role as a messenger of peace and divine presence.

Comeliness in Song of Solomon

The Song of Solomon, a poetic book celebrating love and beauty, frequently uses the dove to describe the beloved's physical and spiritual allure. In Song of Solomon 1:15, the lover exclaims, "How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how very beautiful! Your eyes are like doves" . Here, the dove's eyes are a metaphor for purity and gentleness, enhancing the beloved's comeliness.

Further, in Song of Solomon 5:12, the beloved's eyes are again likened to doves, "His eyes are like doves beside the streams of water, bathed in milk and mounted like jewels" . This description not only highlights the physical beauty but also suggests a depth of character and spiritual grace.

The Dove in Sacrificial Contexts

In the Old Testament, doves were often used in sacrificial 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" . The dove's role in sacrificial rites underscores its purity and innocence, qualities that are pleasing to God.

The Dove in Noah's Narrative

The narrative of Noah and the flood further illustrates the dove's significance. After the floodwaters began to recede, Noah sent out a dove to see if the land had dried. The dove returned with an olive leaf, signaling the end of God's judgment and the restoration of peace on earth. Genesis 8:11 records, "And behold, the dove returned to him in the evening with a freshly plucked olive leaf in her mouth. So Noah knew that the waters had receded from the earth" . This act of the dove carrying an olive branch has since become a universal symbol of peace and hope.

Conclusion

Throughout the Bible, the dove is consistently portrayed as a creature of beauty and grace, embodying the virtues of peace, purity, and divine presence. Its comeliness of countenance is not merely physical but also deeply symbolic, representing the gentle and loving nature of God.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Songs 2:14
O my dove, that are in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs, let me see your countenance, let me hear your voice; for sweet is your voice, and your countenance is comely.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Pilgrim's Progress
... 'Tis in New England under such advance, Receives there so much loving countenance,
As to be trimm'd, new cloth'd, and deck'd with gems That it may show its ...
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