Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the dove is a symbol of peace, purity, and the Holy Spirit. Its gentle nature and serene presence have made it a significant creature in various scriptural contexts. One of the notable characteristics of the dove, as mentioned in the Bible, is its dwelling in the clefts of the rocks.Biblical References: The imagery of the dove dwelling in the rocks is vividly captured in the Song of Solomon. In Song of Solomon 2:14 , the beloved calls out, "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." This verse portrays the dove as a creature that seeks refuge and safety in the secluded and elevated places of the rocky cliffs. The dove's habitation in such places symbolizes a desire for protection and intimacy, away from the chaos of the world. Symbolism and Interpretation: The dove's dwelling in the rocks can be interpreted as a metaphor for the believer's relationship with God. Just as the dove finds safety and solace in the clefts of the rock, so too do believers find refuge in the Lord. The rock, often a symbol of strength and stability in the Bible, represents God's unchanging nature and His protection over His people. Psalm 18:2 declares, "The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer. My God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." In the context of the Song of Solomon, the dove's presence in the rocks also signifies the intimate and loving relationship between the bride and the bridegroom, often interpreted as an allegory of Christ's relationship with the Church. The call for the dove to reveal itself and its voice reflects the desire for communion and fellowship, emphasizing the beauty and sweetness of the beloved's presence. Cultural and Historical Context: In ancient Near Eastern culture, doves were common and familiar birds, often associated with love and gentleness. Their choice of nesting in rocky crevices and cliffs was well-known, providing them with protection from predators and the elements. This natural behavior of the dove would have been easily understood by the original audience of the biblical texts, adding depth to the metaphorical language used by the biblical authors. Theological Implications: The dove's dwelling in the rocks serves as a reminder of the believer's need for spiritual refuge and the importance of seeking God's presence. It encourages believers to find their security and peace in the Lord, who is their rock and fortress. This imagery also highlights the beauty of a life hidden in Christ, where one can experience the sweetness of His voice and the loveliness of His presence. In summary, the dove's habitation in the rocks is a rich biblical motif that conveys themes of protection, intimacy, and divine refuge. It invites believers to seek the safety and serenity found in a close relationship with God, who is their eternal rock and stronghold. Torrey's Topical Textbook Songs 2:14O 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 Jeremiah 48:28 Library The Foundation of God Ebenezer! The Christian Rejoicing in the views of Death and Judgment. On the Ten Points of Doctrine. A Bundle of Myrrh The Poetical Books (Including Also Ecclesiastes and Canticles). The Complaint: Or, Night Thoughts. The Doctrine of God Appendices Of the Lord's Supper, and the Benefits Conferred by It. Resources What are some of the symbols of the Holy Spirit in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of the olive tree in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Jonah in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Dove: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Dove of Converts to the Church The Dove of the Meekness of Christ The Dove: (In Its Flight) of the Return of Israel from Captivity The Dove: Characterised by Comeliness of Countenance The Dove: Characterised by Richness of Plumage The Dove: Characterised by Simplicity The Dove: Characterised by Softness of Eyes The Dove: Characterised by Sweetness of Voice The Dove: Clean and Used As Food The Dove: Frequents Streams and Rivers The Dove: Impiously Sold in the Court of the Temple The Dove: Mournful Tabering of, Alluded To The Dove: Offered in Sacrifice The Dove: Sent from the Ark by Noah The Dove: The Harbinger of Spring The Dove: Why Considered the Emblem of Peace Turtle Dove: Burnt offering of Turtle Dove: Harmlessness of, Typical of Christ's Gentleness Turtle Dove: Market For, in the Temple Turtle Dove: Prescribed for Purification of Lepers Turtle Dove: Prescribed for Purification of Nazarites Turtle Dove: Prescribed for Purification of Women Turtle Dove: Sacrificial Uses of Turtle Dove: Sent out from the Ark by Noah Turtle Dove: Sin offering, for Those Who Touched Any Dead Body Turtle Dove: Symbolical of the Holy Spirit Turtle Dove: Trespass offering of, for the Impecunious Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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