Cloud of doves

Isaiah’s vision of the procession of nations to Jerusalem includes this beautiful image: “Who are these who fly like a cloud, and like the doves to their windows” (Isaiah 60:8).

A cloud – Yahweh’s glory, which is the nations.

A cloud coming to a house, consecrating it.

A cloud of doves, like a bird-cloud from a film by Malick or Richard Attenborough, doves forming a cloud like cherubim.

Doves heading toward a window, like Noah’s dove to the window of the ark, a sign of the end of the tempest, a sign of the restoration of calm and the redemption of the nations.

We’re glad you’re enjoying First Things

Create an account below to continue reading.

Or, subscribe for full unlimited access

 

Already a have an account? Sign In