I said, “Oh, that I had wings like a dove! This phrase reflects a deep yearning for escape and peace amidst turmoil. The dove is often a symbol of peace and purity in biblical literature, as seen in Genesis 8:11 when the dove returns to Noah with an olive leaf, signaling the end of the flood.

6 And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest. Read full chapter

And I said, oh that I had wings like a dove,.... The psalmist pitches upon this creature, partly to suggest that his enemies pursuing him were like the ravenous hawk, and he like the harmless, innocent, and trembling dove; and partly because of its swiftness in flying.

“Who will give me wings,” I ask— “wings like a dove?” Get me out of here on dove wings; I want some peace and quiet. I want a walk in the country, I want a cabin in the woods.

It is no surprise that David cried out in great dismay and deep distress, "Oh, that I had wings like a dove! I would fly away and be at rest." This man of God longed that he could escape the terrible situation and distressing betrayal of his beloved friend.

I say, “I wish I had wings like a dove. I would fly away and settle in a safe place. Look, I will escape to a distant place; I will stay in the wilderness. (Selah) I will hurry off to a place that is ...

6 And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest. 7 Lo, then would I wander far off, and remain in the wilderness. Selah. 8 I would hasten my escape from the windy storm and tempest. 9 Destroy, O Lord, and divide their tongues: for I have seen violence and strife in the city.

6 I said, "I wish I had wings like a dove! Then I would fly away and be at rest. The psalmist pitches upon this creature, partly to suggest that his enemies pursuing him were like the ravenous hawk, and he like the harmless, innocent, and trembling dove; and …

O that I had wings like a dove! — He was so surrounded, so hemmed in on every side by his adversaries, that he could see no way for his escape unless he had wings, and could take flight. The dove is a bird of very rapid wing; and some oil them passing before his eyes at the time, might have suggested the idea expressed here.

We do not want the "wings of a dove" to fly away, but rather the wings of faith and love to carry us closer to Christ; we want to be more like Him, and then we shall triumph in trouble as the sea-bird rides on the wave.