The answer is: Olive leaf

Gen 8:11 - Historically one of the most useful trees in the Middle East.

Imagine Noah, floating in the vast waters after the Great Flood, anxiously watching his surroundings. In this intense moment, a dove returns to him with an olive branch—what a powerful sign of hope! Olive trees are fascinating characters in the biblical landscape; they're sturdy and can live for thousands of years, embodying both resilience and longevity.

The olive leaf wasn't just a pretty token; it communicated something profound—the earth was healing, and life was making a triumphant return. This symbol connects beautifully with future biblical themes. Olives often represent peace and prosperity and crop up in Psalms and even all the way to the New Testament—think of Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane, which translates to "olive press."

An interesting nugget about the olive tree is its longstanding cultivation in the Middle East, closely tied to ancient agricultural practices. There’s a strong case to be made that the olive tree served as more than just a food source; it symbolized sustenance for family and community, making that little twig much more than just “a sign of life.” Plus, this moment with the dove and the olive branches signifies divine favor and restoration—a fresh start for Noah and his family and a chance for all creation to flourish anew.

So every time we think of olives and doves, we're not just reminiscing about Noah's Ark; we’re also tapping into a rich tapestry of tradition that underscores life’s chances for rejuvenation even after the most tumultuous storms.