Topical Encyclopedia In the context of biblical dietary laws, the term "turtle" refers to the turtledove, a bird that is considered clean and acceptable for consumption and sacrifice according to the Mosaic Law. The turtledove is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures, symbolizing purity, innocence, and devotion.Biblical References: 1. Leviticus 1:14 : "If, however, his offering to the LORD is a burnt offering of birds, he is to present a turtledove or a young pigeon." This verse highlights the turtledove as an acceptable offering in the sacrificial system established by God for the Israelites. The turtledove, along with the young pigeon, was one of the few birds permitted for sacrifice, indicating its status as a clean bird. 2. Leviticus 12:8 : "But if she cannot afford a lamb, she may bring two turtledoves or two young pigeons, one for a burnt offering and the other for a sin offering. In this way the priest will make atonement for her, and she will be clean." This passage underscores the turtledove's role in the purification rituals, particularly for those who could not afford more costly offerings. The provision of turtledoves as an alternative demonstrates God's accommodation for the poor, allowing them to participate fully in the covenant community. 3. Song of Solomon 2:12 : "The flowers have appeared in the countryside; the season of singing has come, and the cooing of turtledoves is heard in our land." Here, the turtledove is associated with the arrival of spring and renewal, symbolizing love and the beauty of creation. Its gentle cooing is a sign of the changing seasons and the promise of new life. 4. Luke 2:24 : "And to offer the sacrifice specified in the Law of the Lord: 'A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.'" This New Testament reference recounts the presentation of Jesus at the temple, where Mary and Joseph offered turtledoves in accordance with the law. This act signifies their obedience to the Mosaic Law and highlights the turtledove's continued significance in Jewish religious practice. Symbolism and Significance: The turtledove is emblematic of faithfulness and devotion, often used in Scripture to illustrate the relationship between God and His people. Its gentle nature and monogamous mating habits make it a fitting symbol of love and fidelity. In the sacrificial system, the turtledove's role as a clean bird underscores its purity and suitability for offerings to God. The use of turtledoves in sacrifices and purification rites reflects the broader biblical theme of atonement and reconciliation with God. As a clean bird, the turtledove serves as a reminder of the holiness required to approach the divine presence and the provision made by God for His people to maintain a right relationship with Him. Torrey's Topical Textbook Leviticus 14:22And two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, such as he is able to get; and the one shall be a sin offering, and the other a burnt offering. Torrey's Topical Textbook Songs 2:12 Library The Creation of Fowl and Water Animals. Leviticus Prayers and Praise from a Pure Mind, Ceaselessly Offered, Far ... Monos On the Study of Zoology. The Seventh Commandment La Brea Striking Similes Where to Find Fruit Letter cviii. To Eustochium. Resources Is there any special meaning/symbolism to owls in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is theistic evolution? | GotQuestions.org How did Noah fit all the animals on the Ark? | GotQuestions.org Birds: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Birds are Hostile to Strange Kinds Birds of Cruel and Rapacious Kings Birds of People of Different Countries Birds of the Devil and his Spirits Birds: (Snaring) Designs of the Wicked Birds: Called: Birds of the Air Birds: Called: Fowls of Heaven Birds: Called: Fowls of the Air Birds: Clean: Offered in Sacrifice Birds: Confinement of, in Cages Alluded To Birds: Created for the Glory of God Birds: Creation of, on the Fifth Creative Day Birds: Differ in Flesh from Beasts and Fishes Birds: Early Distinguished Into Clean and Clean Birds: Have Each Their Peculiar Note or Song Birds: Herb of the Field Given As Food To Birds: Inhabit: Deserted Cities Birds: Instinct of, Inferior to Man's Reason Birds: Lessons of Wisdom to be Learned From Birds: Make Their Nests in Clefts of Rocks Birds: Make Their Nests in Deserted Cities Birds: Make Their Nests in Trees Birds: Make Their Nests: On the Ground Birds: Make Their Nests: Under the Roofs of Houses Birds: Make, and Dwell in Nests Birds: Many Kinds of, Carnivorous Birds: Many Kinds of, Graniverous Birds: Many Kinds of, Migratory Birds: Moses' Law Protected the Mother from Being Taken With the Young Birds: Names Given To, by Adam Birds: No Likeness of, to be Made for Worship Birds: Not to be Eaten With Their Young Birds: Often Remove from Places Suffering Calamities Birds: Often Suffered for Man's Sin Birds: Often Worshipped by Idolaters Birds: Power Over Given to Man Birds: Rapid Flight of, Alluded To Birds: Solomon Wrote the History of Birds: Songs of, at the Break of Day Birds: Taken in Snares or Nets Birds: The Blood of, not to be Eaten Birds: Unclean: Not to be Eaten Birds: What Species Were Unclean Related Terms |
    |