The answer is: Raven

Gen 8:7 - Perhaps the raven was unwillingly to fly far from the ark, and Noah sent out the dove instead.

In the fascinating tale of the ark, the raven's flight is like the first chapter of a new story unfolding after the flood. According to Genesis 8:7, when Noah releases the raven, it ends up flying back and forth, seemingly reluctant to venture far from the ark. This is quite interesting! The raven, often seen as a cunning creature in literary and cultural contexts, may have sensed that safety was still within reach aboard the ark.

After the raven, Noah sends out a dove, which is a significant symbol of peace throughout the Bible. When it brings back an olive leaf, it symbolizes hope and new beginnings, often interpreted as God's promise never to destroy the earth again (as seen in Genesis 9:12-15). Interestingly, olive trees can flourish in rocky, dry conditions, which reflects the resilience that often accompanies new life.

Also worth noting is that the raven was considered unclean according to the laws laid out in later chapters (Leviticus 11). This that highlights aspects of dietary laws that makeup much of the ancient Hebrew culture. Moreover, the story of Noah echoes themes of rebirth found in different Flood narratives across various cultures, suggesting a universal quest for renewal after destruction.

Ultimately, the moment when the dove returns with the olive branch is not just a reassuring token but a beautiful tapestry woven into God's creation story—showing that even in chaos, hope blossoms anew!