In biblical symbolism, doves are often associated with peace, purity, and the Holy Spirit. The dove first appears in the narrative of Noah's Ark. After the flood, Noah sends out a dove to see if the waters have receded. The dove returns with an olive leaf, signaling the end of God's judgment and the restoration of peace on earth (Genesis 8:11: "And behold, the dove returned to him in the evening with a freshly plucked olive leaf in its beak. So Noah knew that the waters had receded from the earth.").

Doves are also emblematic of innocence and purity. In the Song of Solomon, the beloved is described as having "eyes like doves" (Song of Solomon 1:15: "How beautiful you are, my darling! Oh, how very beautiful! Your eyes are like doves."). This imagery conveys a sense of gentle beauty and purity.

In the New Testament, the dove becomes a symbol of the Holy Spirit. At the baptism of Jesus, the Holy Spirit descends upon Him in the form of a dove (Matthew 3:16: "As soon as Jesus was baptized, He went up out of the water. Suddenly the heavens were opened, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and resting on Him."). This event marks the divine approval of Jesus' ministry and the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Doves are also used in sacrificial contexts, representing offerings of purity and devotion. In Levitical law, doves or pigeons were acceptable offerings for those who could not afford more expensive sacrifices (Leviticus 5:7: "If, however, he cannot afford a lamb, he may bring to the LORD two turtledoves or two young pigeons as a penalty for his sin—one as a sin offering and the other as a burnt offering.").

Clouds

Clouds in the Bible often symbolize the presence and majesty of God. They are frequently associated with divine revelation and guidance. In the Old Testament, God uses a pillar of cloud to lead the Israelites through the wilderness, signifying His presence and protection (Exodus 13:21: "And the LORD went before them in a pillar of cloud to guide their way by day and in a pillar of fire to give them light by night, so that they could travel by day or night.").

Clouds also serve as a medium through which God communicates with His people. At Mount Sinai, God descends in a thick cloud to deliver the Ten Commandments to Moses, emphasizing His holiness and the seriousness of His covenant (Exodus 19:9: "The LORD said to Moses, 'Behold, I will come to you in a dense cloud, so that the people may hear when I speak with you, and may always put their trust in you.'").

In the New Testament, clouds are associated with the return of Christ. Jesus ascends into heaven and is taken up by a cloud, and it is prophesied that He will return in the same manner (Acts 1:9: "After He had said this, they watched as He was taken up, and a cloud hid Him from their sight."). This imagery underscores the glory and authority of Christ's second coming.

Clouds also symbolize the mystery and transcendence of God. In the Psalms, clouds are described as God's chariot, illustrating His sovereignty and power over creation (Psalm 104:3: "He lays the beams of His chambers on the waters; He makes the clouds His chariot; He walks on the wings of the wind."). This portrayal highlights the divine majesty and the inscrutable nature of God's ways.