Genesis 8:8Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The inquiry arises regarding why the sacred text, after stating that "the tops of the mountains appeared" (Gen. 8:5), now indicates that the dove returned to Noah in the ark "for the water was yet upon the surface of all the earth" because it found no resting place. Let us examine these statements closely to uncover the reason. The Scripture specifies that the dove "found no rest," adding "with his feet" to illustrate that, although the waters had receded somewhat and the mountain summits were visible, these very peaks were still tainted by the remnants of the deluge. Consequently, the dove was unable to alight anywhere or find sustenance and decided to return to the ark, conveying to the righteous man that ample water remained on the earth.

The reason the branch of oil, brought back by the dove to the ark, symbolizes the eternal realm is quite clear. We recognize that the oil's surface remains untainted by other substances, and the tree from which it comes remains perpetually green.

The synagogue lacks this anointing oil, as it does not possess an olive tree and is unaware of which dove returned with the olive branch after the deluge. However, this dove descended upon Christ during His baptism and remained with Him, as John declares in the Gospel: “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove and remaining on Him” (John 1:32).

The dove represents the Lord Himself, characterized by His gentle, unassuming, and graceful nature. He embodies the dove because He instructed His followers to emulate this simplicity: Be simple as doves (Matthew 10:16). The prophecy reveals that the dove symbolizes Christ, as evidenced by the lament of the prophet regarding His ascension after enduring earthly suffering: Who would give me wings like a dove? I would fly away and be at rest (Psalm 54:7). During the establishment of the sacraments for His Church, a dove descended from heaven (See Matt. 3:14, Mk. 1:10, Lk. 3:22, Jn. 1:32), revealing the mystery and significance of the sacrament. The dove that now alights upon the Church of Christ during baptism is the same one that earlier flew from Noah's ark after the flood.

Following the release of the raven, Noah sent forth his dove, which returned in the evening with an olive branch bearing fresh leaves in its beak. You may have discerned, dear brethren, that this olive branch signifies the grace of the Holy Spirit, abundant in the words of life. This fullness rests upon Christ, as expressed in the Psalm: Thou hast anointed thee, O God, thy God, with the oil of gladness more than thy partners (Psalm 44:8). John reminds us of His gift to the followers of Christ, stating, Ye have an anointing from the Holy One, and know all things. This beautiful analogy aligns with the truth.

He then set the dove free from himself. After a less than favorable encounter with the raven, known for its affinity for wet areas, the dove was selected for the same mission. This bird thrives in dry, fruitful environments, remains loyal to its home, and is particularly amiable toward humans. This selection was validated by three experiences, which are illuminated by the characteristics of this bird.

Following the failed attempt with the raven, Noah sent forth the dove to ascertain whether the plains and valleys were free from water. The choice of the dove was significant, as this bird favors dry and fertile environments, typically feeding on seeds found in lower terrains rather than on the mountains. Moreover, it was believed that the dove, being a domesticated creature, would be more inclined to return to the ark with news about the land's condition, unlike the raven, a wild bird that cherishes its independence. In this instance, the dove could not remain outside the ark for long and promptly came back to Noah. It found no resting place in the open, as lower areas were still submerged, and the higher grounds had yet to dry sufficiently. There was also a lack of food, as the vegetation had not yet surfaced from beneath the waters. Consequently, the dove's quick return informed Noah of the earth's state.