dove

In their wild state doves generally build their nests in the clefts of rocks, but when domesticated “dove-cots” are prepared for them (Song of Songs 2:14; Jer. 48:28; Isa. 60:8). The dove was placed on the standards of the Assyrians and Babylonians in honor, it is supposed, of Semiramis (Jer. 25:38; Vulgate, “fierceness of the dove;” compare Jer. 46:16; 50:16).

Doves and turtle-doves were the only birds that could be offered in sacrifice, as they were clean according to the Mosaic law (Ge. 15:9; Leviticus 5:7; 12:6; Luke 2:24).

The dove was the harbinger of peace to Noah (Genesis 8:8, 10).

It is often mentioned as the emblem of purity (Psalm 68:13).

It is a symbol of the Holy Spirit (Genesis 1:2; Matt. 3:16; Mark 1:10; Luke 3:22; John 1:32); also of tender and devoted affection (Song of Songs 1:15; 2:14).

David in his distress wished that he had the wings of a dove, that he might fly away and be at rest (Psalm 55:6-8).

There is a species of dove found at Damascus “whose feathers, all except the wings, are literally as yellow as gold” (68:13).

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