The Good Fortune of the Fish Tattoo

The symbol of the fish dates back as far as 2500 BC in India, and in most ancient cultures represented water. It also stood for female reproductive powers, birth and marriage. In the Hindu religion when a woman is first married she brings a fish into the home of her new husband. And who can forget the symbol for Pisces, which is who fish swimming in opposite directions.

Before major religions the fish a simplistic sign appearing as a pointed oval known as the fish bladder and represented fertility. In the beginnings of Christianity this symbol was used as a secret code to mark save locations, and eventually became associated with Jesus.

For those who lived near water the fish was an essential food source and therefore revered. The salmon is probably the most used symbol of coastal people and came to represent abundance and wealth, and was also appreciated for its superior instinct and when it came to finding its breeding grounds.

Each fish has its own traits that make it a great symbol. For example the marlin is a terrific sport fish and can put up a terrible fight when caught, showing great strength and endurance, while the goldfish can mean happiness and good fortune.

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