Symbolism of dove

Symbolism of dove

Denotes a peaceful nature or condition - may be a religious or spiritual sign from God or a spiritual guide. It represents love and tenderness. It can mean an 'inner' initiation, such as the descent of the Holy Ghost as in Matthew 3::16 when Jesus Christ was baptized  In the Bible, the dove was used to symbolize the end of the Flood, and represents the Holy Spirit. It was used at Jesus Baptism, the Annunciation, the Holy Trinity, and divine inspiration. The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are represented by seven doves, wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. Doves also stand for the newly baptized. Doves are also shown flying out of the mouths of dying martyrs. The dove is the symbol for the soul in India. In China, it stands for marital fidelity and longevity.  It is also a sign of fertility. The cooing of a dove is preferable to a 'booing'. We should speak with a 'coo' rather than with harshness.