Topical Encyclopedia The dove holds a significant place in biblical symbolism, often representing peace, purity, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. Its emblematic status as a symbol of peace is deeply rooted in various scriptural narratives and theological interpretations.Noah and the Flood The earliest and perhaps most iconic biblical association of the dove with peace is found in the account of Noah and the Flood. After the deluge, Noah sent out a dove to see if the waters had receded from the earth. In Genesis 8:11 , it is recorded, "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's return with an olive leaf signified the end of God's judgment and the restoration of peace between God and humanity. This narrative established the dove as a harbinger of hope and reconciliation. The Holy Spirit In the New Testament, the dove is prominently featured at the baptism of Jesus. As described 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." The descent of the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove signifies divine approval and the inauguration of Jesus' ministry. The dove here symbolizes the peace and purity of the Holy Spirit, marking the beginning of a new covenant of peace through Christ. Sacrificial Symbolism In the Old Testament, doves were also used in sacrificial offerings, particularly for those who could not afford more expensive animals. Leviticus 5:7 states, "If, however, he cannot afford a lamb, he may bring to the LORD two turtledoves or two young pigeons as a penalty for his sin, one as a sin offering and the other as a burnt offering." The use of doves in sacrifices underscores their association with purity and atonement, further linking them to the concept of peace with God through the forgiveness of sins. Cultural and Historical Context Beyond the biblical text, the dove has been a symbol of peace in various cultures throughout history. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, doves were often associated with deities of love and peace. This cultural backdrop may have influenced the biblical writers' use of the dove as a symbol of peace and divine presence. Theological Interpretations Theologically, the dove's symbolism is rich and multifaceted. It represents the peace that comes from reconciliation with God, as seen in the account of Noah. It also embodies the peace of the Holy Spirit, who dwells within believers and guides them in truth and righteousness. The dove's gentle and harmless nature serves as a model for Christian conduct, as Jesus instructed 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." In summary, the dove's role as an emblem of peace is deeply embedded in biblical narratives and theological symbolism. Its presence in key scriptural events highlights themes of reconciliation, divine presence, and the purity of the Holy Spirit, making it a powerful symbol of peace in the Christian tradition. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 8:11And the dove came in to him in the evening; and, see, in her mouth was an olive leaf plucked off: so Noah knew that the waters were abated from off the earth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Fifth Commandment They Shall be Called the Children of God CHAPTER III. Aron, Brother of Moses, 486, 487. The Gospel of John The Sibylline Oracles. From the Close of the General Conference of 1808, to the ... Baptismal Regeneration Robert Nelson, his Friends, and Church Principles. Marah; Or, the Bitter Waters Sweetened Resources What was a blood covenant (Genesis 15:9-21)? | GotQuestions.orgIs God's love reckless? | GotQuestions.org Is seeing spirits / demons an ability God gives to some people? | 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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