Description
As he is dragged by the soldiers to the commencement of his trial, Jesus looks up and sees a dove flapping its wings overhead. The sight appears to strengthen and comfort him.
Symbolism
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 is an emblem of peace (Genesis 8:8,10
), purity (Psalm 68:13), and devoted affection (Song of Songs 1:15, 2:14). But above all, it’s a symbol of the Holy Spirit (Genesis 1:2; Matthew 3:16; Mark 1:10; Luke 3:22; John 1:32). The sight of the dove would have reminded Jesus of the presence of God’s Holy Spirit. It would have also reminded him of the love of his Father – and that his Father was pleased with his self-sacrificial obedience.The script
As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him.
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.”
Tags: Bible, explore jesus, faith, God, Jesus, Men, passion of the christ, spirituality, Women
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