Bible Dictionaries
Dove

Easton's Bible Dictionary

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 Solomon 2:14; Jeremiah 48:28; Isaiah 60:8 ). The dove was placed on the standards of the Assyrians and Babylonians in honour, it is supposed, of Semiramis (Jeremiah 25:38; Vulg., "fierceness of the dove;" Compare Jeremiah 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 (Genesis 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; Matthew 3:16; Mark 1:10; Luke 3:22; John 1:32 ); also of tender and devoted affection (Song of Solomon 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).