# dove, pigeon #

## Definition: ##

Doves and pigeons are two kinds of small, gray-brown birds that look similar. A dove is often thought of as being lighter in color, almost white.

* Some languages have two different names for them, while others use the same name for both.
* Doves and pigeons were used in sacrifices to God, especially for people who could not afford to buy a larger animal.
* A dove brought the leaf of an olive tree to Noah when the flood waters were going down.
* Doves sometimes symbolize purity, innocence, or peace.
* If doves or pigeons are not known in the language area where the translation is being done, this term could be translated as "a small grayish brown bird called a dove" or "a small gray or brown bird, similar to a (name of local bird)".
* If both a dove and a pigeon are referred to in the same verse, it is best to use two different words for these birds, if possible.

(See also: [How to Translate Unknowns](https://git.door43.org/Door43/en-ta-translate-vol1/src/master/content/translate_unknown.md))

(See also: [olive](../other/olive.md) **·** [innocent](../kt/innocent.md) **·** [purify](../kt/purify.md))

## Bible References: ##

* [Genesis 08:8-9](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/gen/08/08)
* [Luke 02:22-24](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/luk/02/22)
* [Mark 01:9-11](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/mrk/01/09)
* [Matthew 03:16-17](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/mat/03/16)
* [Matthew 21:12-14](https://door43.org/en/bible/notes/mat/21/12)