The dove appears numerous times in the Bible. It was one of the animals used for sacrificial offerings in the Temple, a fact which is mentioned in the Bible and was confirmed by an analysis of bird remains that were found in Jerusalem. The first time the dove appears in the Bible, however, is at the time of the flood.
After the flood, Noah sends out a dove to see if the waters had receded from the surface of the ground. The dove initially finds no place to rest and returns to the ark. Noah waits seven more days and sends the dove out again; this time, it returns with an olive leaf, indicating that the floodwaters had receded. After another seven days, Noah sends the dove out again, and this time it does not return, signaling that the land was dry.
At first, the dove could not find a resting place and returned to the ark. Seven days later, Noah tried again and released the dove from the ark. This time, it came back with an olive branch in its mouth, indicating that the waters had indeed decreased. The image of a dove grasping an olive branch has become a symbol of peace. This icon, which emerged at the re-initiation of the world, when God’s anger was quenched and Noach was commanded to continue mankind anew, emerged from the Land of Israel, the land of peace.
After another seven days, Noah sent out the dove one more time. This time, the dove did not return and Noah knew that it was safe to leave the ark.
The Sages also comment that the dove that Noah sent from the ark foreshadows the journey of the Jewish people throughout history. Just as the dove found no rest for the sole of its foot, so the Jews will find no solace in exile. Just as the dove returned to the ark seeking shelter, so the Jews will return from exile to the Land of Israel. Like Noah’s dove, the people have remained faithful to God, and now, after thousands of years of absence, have returned to His land.
In Hosea, the prophet Hosea compares Ephraim (representing the northern kingdom of Israel) to a senseless dove, easily deceived and lacking understanding. The verse criticizes Israel for its futile attempts to seek help and alliances from foreign powers like Egypt and Assyria, rather than trusting in God. This metaphor highlights Israel’s misguided actions and the nation’s tendency to rely on unreliable external sources for security and support, ultimately leading to their downfall.
In Psalms 55:6, the psalmist, King David, expresses a deep longing for escape from his troubles. He wishes he had the wings of a dove to fly away and find rest. This verse captures the intensity of David’s desire to flee from his current distress and find peace and solace. The imagery of a dove, known for its gentle and peaceful nature, underscores David’s yearning for tranquility amidst turmoil and conflict. This verse resonates with anyone seeking a refuge from their struggles and a desire for peace.
Song of Songs 2:14 depicts a tender and intimate moment between lovers. King Solomon calls to their beloved, referred to as “my dove,” who is hiding in the clefts of the rock and the secret places of the cliffs. The beloved is asked to show their face and let their voice be heard, for their voice is sweet and their face is lovely. This verse symbolizes the longing for closeness and the beauty of the beloved. The dove represents purity and gentleness, highlighting the deep affection and admiration in this poetic expression of love.
Throughout Talmudic literature, the Jewish people are compared to the dove. Once a dove meets her mate she never leaves him for another, and a dove, even when her offspring are taken, will never abandon her nest. In a similar fashion, the Children of Israel are faithful to God.
