Genesis 8:6 Commentary and Bible Study

The ark was now at rest but Noah wanted to test whether it was right for him to leave the ark yet, so he sent out scouts in the form of these birds at seven-day intervals to survey the state of the earth. He was aware that the waters were receding, but his family could not leave this place of refuge and the animals with him on the ark could not be released, until life on earth was viable. The raven did not at first find a place to rest. Being a stronger bird which can survive at altitude, it did not return to the ark, but continued in the air until the waters receded further. The dove sent seven days later, at first returned, and the second time came back with an olive branch in its mouth, evidence that the trees were starting to show above water. This was perhaps a tree growing on the side of the mountain, which had spent less time submerged, or even a newly sprouted seed. A week later the dove sent out again, did not return.