Dove symbolism represents all the good things surrounding this spiritual bird. These things include peace, kindness, and love – what our goals and morals should be built on.
Symbolism can help you learn more about yourself and the messages God is sending you. The messenger bird sends natural messages that you need to hear.
What Is A Dove?
A dove is a bird that eats seeds and makes a distinct cooing sound. They are scientifically similar to pigeons, with the names often considered synonymous. But when it comes to symbolism, the two are quite different.
What Do Doves Symbolize?
- Peace
- Love
- Kindness
- Tranquility
- Serenity
- Purity
- Devotion
- Holiness
- Message
Mourning Dove Symbolism
The mourning dove represents sorrow and grief. It is similar to the white dove in appearance, but spiritually, it is a healthy type of mourning. Peace, love, and kindness remain.
White Dove Meaning
The white dove represents purity and divinity. It is an innocent dove with the core still being fruits of the spirit.
Dove Totem Animal
The dove totem animal stands for protection, family, and harmony. It is given to those who yearn for familial connections and feel responsible for those close to them. They understand relationships and put their focus on harmony.
Dove Spirit Animal
The dove spirit animal represents the love being brought into your life. If the dove is your forever spiritual animal, it means that you bring love to others, as it is one of your life’s purposes. You are a blessing with a gentle spirit who spreads kindness to others.
Pros Of A Dove Spirit Animal
- Spread love and kindness.
- You are a light.
- You are good at taking care of others.
- You can offer unbiased views.
- You show others the joy of service.
Cons Of A Dove Spirit Animal
- Sometimes appear naive.
- You avoid confrontation.
- You’re not transparent.
Dead Dove Symbolism
Dead doves symbolize a dying soul. This is a negative sign that you can become a good thing by having life breathed into your soul again. You can turn things around now and find things that bring you joy and encourage kindness.
Dove Tattoo Meaning
Each dove tattoo has a different meaning, as those who wear them decide what they mean. But in general, dove tattoos are s symbol of peace and love. They stand for the values that world peace and spreading kindness is the key to happiness.
What Does A Dove Symbolize In The Bible?
In the Bible, the dove brought back the olive branch to let Noah know there was land nearby. This is a task that the raven/crow could not accomplish, but the dove did. That is why the dove symbolizes gentleness, peace, and hope.
Why Is The Dove A Symbol Of The Holy Spirit?
The dove symbolizes the holy spirit because of its purity and love. These two things and the many other fruits the dove represents are core to the holy spirit. In the New Testament, this is referenced multiple times. The first is Matthew 3:16, “And the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”
What Does Seeing A Dove In Your Dreams Mean?
If you see a dove in your dreams, you need to remember how to fly. What doves represent is part of who you are; this is a reminder. You are a person of love, kindness, and peace.
How To Interpret A Dove Encounter
Most dove encounters are a sign of peace and love. But there could be other meanings if this doesn’t feel suited to what you feel whenever you see the dove. If you’re a mother, it could be a nod to your hard work in your role. Or perhaps, if you see two doves, it’s a sign that a kindred spirit is near.
What Should You Do When You See A Dove?
If you see a dove, try to take in the blessings it offers. From gentleness to serenity, doves are here to give us fruits that can bless us. Take on your weaknesses by allowing the goodness to wash over you and be proud of your strengths.
Dove Symbolism And Spiritual Meanings – Allow the Fruits to Flow
Doves symbolize peace and love above all else. But there is truth to their depiction and symbolism in every culture and religion.
Religion
Religion is a good place to look for dove symbolism. These religions are old and add deep spirituality to the representation.
Christianity
In Christianity, the dove represents peace. It comes from the peace of the lands after the flood.
Hinduism
In Hinduism, Kamadeva is the god of love and desire. They often ride doves, which in turn means that the dove represents the same things.
Islamic
In Islamic culture, doves are special birds that helped Muhammad. He was once followed by enemies and hid in a cave. There, doves built their nests to make the enemies believe that the cave was uninhabitable.
Ancient
Ancient cultures have mythological stores and true stories to show us the balance between spiritual and physical – a great way to look at symbolism.
Roman
Ancient Romans believed in Venus, the goddess of love, was sometimes represented by a dove.
Canaan
Canaanites worshipped the mother goddess Asherah, who was symbolized by the dove. Those who saw the dove saw the deity.
Celtic
In Celtic culture, doves are connected to purity and holiness. They are divine birds that give off an energy called St. Columba, also known as the Church Dove.
Mesopotamia
In Ancient Mesopotamia, doves symbolized the goddess Inanna-Ishtar, who was associated with love and war.
Greek
Like Venus, Aphrodite is the goddess of love, symbolized by many flying and beautiful symbols, including the dove. In her festival, the dove’s blood was used as a sacrifice for her.
Asian
Asian cultures often mix religion and philosophy. There are two prominent Asian countries with ties to doves.
Chinese
In China, doves symbolize faith and springtime. This translates into a new beginning and faithfulness to one’s family.
Japanese
In Japan, doves are Hachiman’s familiar spirit. He is the divinity of archery and war. However, the dove represents his bow and arrow.
Native American
Native Americans have some of the purest meanings of doves. Their influences are few and far between, with nature being their grounding factor.
Aztec
In Aztec culture, the goddess Xochiquetzal connects with doves. She represents love and fertility with stories of the great flood.
Cheyenne
Cheyennes have a proverb that tells us that doves mean peace and gentleness. It says, “If a man is as wise as a serpent, he can afford to be as harmless as a dove.”
Blackfoot
In Blackfoot culture, doves protected soldiers and helped them return home safely. That’s why dove feathers were often used as talismans.