Wings and Feathers in the Bible
The symbolism of birds has been around for centuries in literature, folklore and mythology. In the Bible, birds are also featured in symbolic ways. One of the most common symbols of birds and feathers in the Bible are wings – they represent God’s protection, power and love. In several passages, birds and feathers symbolize God’s care and protection over his people.
One of the best known examples of the use of wings in the Bible is the story of the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt. In the book of Exodus, it says that the Lord went before them “in a pillar of cloud by day, and in a pillar of fire by night” (Exodus 14:19). The cloud covered the Israelites so that Pharaoh’s soldiers could not find them. This is symbolic of God’s protection over his people.
In Psalm 91:4, the Lord says, “He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.” This is a beautiful reminder that God’s love is there to protect us from our enemies. We can rest secure in knowing that He is always with us and will never leave us alone.
The book of Isaiah also mentions feathers in a very powerful way. The chapter describes a powerful and beautiful bird, clothed in glorious feathers, flying over the city and singing a song of hope and restoration. This is a powerful symbol of God’s love and care for his people. The feathers signify the way God covers his people with his love and protection.
In the Bible, wings also represent freedom and the ability to move from one place to another. In the book of Psalms, it says “He has given his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways: they shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone” (Psalms 91:11-12). This is symbolic of the power of angels and God’s ability to help us when we need it most. We can trust in Him to help us and guide us safely.
In addition to wings, feathers are also symbolic of the Holy Spirit. In the book of Revelation, it says “I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud and a rainbow over his head… and he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me… the seven Spirits of God have sent me forth” (Revelation 1:13-16). The seven Spirits of God in the Bible refer to the Holy Spirit, and the rainbow is symbolic of His presence. This is a beautiful reminder that the Holy Spirit is always there to guide and protect us.
Feathers are also used to symbolize God’s mercy. In Exodus, it says that “the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord” (Exodus 19:18). This is symbolic of God’s mercy and compassion, and of the power of God to protect and restore us. This is a powerful reminder of God’s love and care for us.
Birds as Symbols of Hope and Strength
Birds in the Bible often symbolize hope, strength and courage. In the book of Isaiah, it says “they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). This passage is a reminder that God will provide us with strength and courage when we need it. The imagery of the wings of an eagle is a powerful reminder of God’s strength and protection.
The book of Job also mentions birds, and they are a symbol of renewal and hope. In the book of Job, it says “But ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee; and the birds of the air, and they shall tell thee” (Job 12:7). This is a reminder to us that even the birds of the air can teach us something about life. They can show us that despite the darkness and hardship there is always hope, and that God will always be there for us.
Birds can also symbolize peace and joy. In the book of Matthew, it says “The kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that sowed good seed in his field: But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat… But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also” (Matthew 13:24-26). The image of the birds of the air coming to eat the fruit of the field is a beautiful reminder of the peace and joy that comes with the harvest. It is a reminder that even in times of trouble, the beauty of God’s creation can still be seen and enjoyed.
Songbirds as a Sign of Blessings
In the Bible, songbirds are often seen as a sign of blessing and good fortune. In the book of Psalms, it says “The Lord gives his blessing, even life for evermore” (Psalms 133:3). The imagery of birds singing in the early morning is a reminder of the beauty and grace of God’s blessing. We can trust in His love and provision for us in all things.
The beautiful imagery of birds singing is also a reminder of God’s faithfulness. In the book of Deuteronomy, it says “This shall be the remembrance of the Lord, when I have brought them out of the land of Egypt: and it shall be for a sign unto thee upon thine hand, and for a memorial between thine eyes” (Deuteronomy 6:8). The imagery of the birds singing is a reminder of God’s faithfulness and provision in all things. Even in the midst of our trials and struggles, He is there with us.
Songbirds also represent joy and gladness. In the book of Psalms, it says “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise” (Psalms 98:4). Singing is a reminder that there is a time to rejoice and be thankful, even in the midst of sorrow. We can take comfort in knowing that God is with us, and he will never leave us nor forsake us.
Birds as Symbols of the Spirit World
In the Bible, birds are also used as symbols of the spirit world. In the book of Ezekiel, it says “Thus saith the Lord God; I will also take of the highest branch of the high cedar, and will set it; I will crop off from the top of his young twigs a tender one, and will plant it upon an high mountain” (Ezekiel 17:22). This is a reminder that God has the power to raise up and to restore, even in the spirit world. We can trust in His faithfulness and provision for us even in the spirit realm.
In addition to this, birds are also symbols of transformation. In the book of Job, it says “For God giveth unto man that is good in his sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy: but to the sinner he giveth travail, to gather and to heap up, that he may give to him that is good before God” (Job 27:13-14). The imagery of the bird being transformed into something greater is a reminder that God is able to transform us as well. We can trust in His infinite power to do so.
Finally, birds in the Bible can also represent understanding and clarity. In the book of Proverbs, it says “She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet” (Proverbs 31:21). The image of birds flying in the clouds brings clarity and understanding of the things of God. This is a reminder to us that God will provide us with clarity in everything we do and our understanding of Him.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bible is full of references to birds and feathers, which symbolize God’s protection and love, freedom, hope and strength. They are signs of joy, peace, renewal and blessings. They are also symbols of the spirit world, transformation and understanding. We can find comfort in knowing that God is always with us, and that He will never leave or forsake us.
