The dove appeared above water, and here follows a dissertation on the virtues of divers waters.
The question arises: Why did the Spirit elect the form of a dove?
This Raulin answers in the following manner:
1. A dove is without gall, and is harmless, and therefore represents the character of those born of the Spirit.
2. A dove bore the olive-branch to the ark, in token of God being reconciled. And by baptism we are reconciled to God.
3. A dove has seven qualities, resembling the Spirit’s sevenfold gifts. These are,
(1) It moans instead of warbling; this represents the spirit of holy Fear.
(2) It is a gentle bird, and is offered in sacrifice; thus representing the spirit of Piety.
(3) It is granivorous, not carnivorous; thus it shadows forth the spirit of Knowledge.
(4) It dwells in the clefts of the rock; thus exhibiting the character of the spirit of Fortitude.
(5) It brings up the young of others; thus showing forth the spirit of Counsel.
(6) It rends not what it eats, but swallows whole; a type of the spirit of Understanding.
(7) It dwells beside waters; thereby exhibiting the marks of the spirit of Wisdom.
All these points are drawn out at length, and examined
minutely; Scripture is tortured to illustrate them, and
