The dove is a universal symbol of peace and innocence. In ancient Greek myth it was a bird of Athene which represented the renewal of life.
In the Bible it was a dove released from the Ark by Noah which returned with an olive branch to show that the Biblical flood was over. Ever since, the dove has symbolised deliverance and God's forgiveness.
According to legend the devil and witches can turn themselves into any bird shape except the dove.
In ancient Japan the dove was sacred to Hackiman the god of war, but it was a dove with a sword which announced the end to war.
The dove is associated with hope, peace and purity. It has become popular to release white doves at weddings to symbolize prosperity, fidelity and a happy home life. Doves are sometimes viewed as a triumph of life over death.