Twinn Swan

Throughout the passageway of time and ever since humans walked the earth, the fish–typically a carp or one of its descendants–has been a staple in the symbology of the world.

From abundance to good luck to its two thousand year old association with St. Peter–whom Jesus called a fisher of men–the fish and the fisherman are so deeply intertwined it would be hard to separate the two. How can the fish–a creature so small, so humble and so commonplace be the bedrock of the abundance in so many cultures and societies around the world?

In addition to its role as a source of food and income, the fish–much like our beloved dog–is also a cherished pet in aquariums everywhere. Ornamental fish have grown so accustomed to humans feeding them that they pucker up their lips the moment they see us at a pond.

While the carp was once an important source of food, this role has diminished in Europe. Demand for carp is believed to have declined ever since farmed trout and salmon began appearing on the dinner table due to extensive farming.

In appearance, a carp is a large-scaled fish with two barbels on each side of its upper jaw. The carp either lives alone or in small schools in quiet weedy mud-bottomed ponds, lakes, and rivers. The common carp has been an astounding success as a coloniser of numerous bodies of water.

The carp is a truly prolific survivor. It is able to tolerate many conditions and is an ideal species for pond culture.

It is one resilient fish.

Spiritual Meaning

The carp is adaptable, resourceful and resilient. It can easily adjust to whatever circumstances it finds itself in. Due to their tendency to stir things up, they can agitate others who feel like they’re moving into what was once their territory.

When it comes to the carp, there is a strong association with immigration and how one learns to get by in a foreign land and culture. When carp appears, it usually heralds a time when one will undoubtedly relocate to a place that is far from where one was born. This relocation is both necessary and destined.

Immigrants have traditionally been a source of irritation when they arrive upon a foreign shore. Their arrival will irritate others who have been there for longer. A successful immigration requires that both sides be accepting of one another.