What does the dove symbolize?

Doves are commonly seen as symbols of peace, love and hope. Some ancient cultures viewed doves as motherly figures that symbolized maternal nature and comfort.

Doves are closely linked with Judaism and Christianity. In both the Old and New Testaments the dove is depicted as a messenger of God or as his familiar. Doves are considered to be pure due to their typical role as a messenger or a symbol of the Holy Spirit; they often appear alongside the Virgin Mary. Doves are also common in Islamic mythology. A common tie between the three Abrahamic religions is the image of a dove carrying an olive branch, symbolizing peace.