The Bridegroom says to the bride who is a symbol of His nation, “You have dove’s eyes (Song 1:15).” Why is Israel called a dove? “Song of Songs Rabbah,” a Jewish book of wisdom, explains:
“The dove is faithful. Israel was likewise faithful to the Holy One, praised be He, at Sinai. For they did not say that ten commandments, or twenty or thirty were enough for them, but they said, “All that the Lord has spoken we will do and be obedient (Exodus 24:7).”
The dove is distinguishable among all other birds. Israel is likewise distinguished by deeds.
The dove is modest. Israel is likewise modest…
The dove does not leave its nest even if someone has taken its brood. Israel likewise continues to visit the temple site even though the Temple has been destroyed.
The dove journeys and returns to its nest. Israel likewise “shall come eagerly like birds from Egypt and like doves from Assyria (Hosea 11:11).”
Others are attracted to the dove; likewise, converts are attracted to Israel.
The dove, unlike other birds, offers its neck fro slaughter without struggling; children of Israel likewise give their lives for the Holy One, praised be He.
The dove does not leave its mate; Israel likewise does not leave the Holy One, praised be He.”
Belong to the dove, like Israel of God!
(Wurmbrand, Richard., 100 Prison Meditations Cries of Truth from Behind the Iron Curtain, Living Sacrifice Books, Bartlesville, OK, 1982, pg 178)
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