Meaning Of Koi
Signs and Symbols - the Meaning of Koi
In the symbolism of the Japanese, the meaning of Koi is strength of purpose, and the ability to persevere in adversity. The strongest of the koi fish swims upstream until it finds the final waterfall, where it leaps into the mists and turns into a water dragon. In Japanese legend, if a Koi was able to climb the falls at a specific part called "Dragon Gate", on the Yellow River, it would transform itself into a dragon. It then became a symbol of advancement and aspiration.
In the more general terminology, the Japanese koi (also known as carp) were associated by them as standing for courage, and the ability to reach high goals. Some say Koi means good luck.
Different drawings will take on different meanings. We know how powerful symbolism is, and the way it has transformed the earth many times. In history, some images have even caused empires to rise and to fall. Symbols can make slaves from kings, and dictators from beggars.
The Japanese culture is filled with symbolism. How do symbols influence people? Like the meaning of Koi, many people believe that these secret symbols hold mystical powers. When you study history, however, you will learn that runes did not remain in power because of any special meanings. They held power because they gave forth the impression that they had magical meanings.
A symbol does not have power unless people *give* it power. Symbols can mean whatever we want them to mean. Remember that a symbol's power depends on who is beholding it. There are many different symbols that have been passed through time. The swastika was originally designed to show good fortune and progress. Now it means evil. Symbols don't give people power - people give symbols power. Similarly, outside of Japan, the meaning of Koi is just a fish.
Different animals have symbolized many different things. We've heard the stories of the ruthless tiger, the wise owl and the sly fox. These are characterizations that we give the animals (although a tiger in almost anyone's eyes is probably still ruthless). Some animals are not as well known for their symbolic representations.
The Koi fish is unknown to many people, outside of Japan. But they show interest when they see a Koi, because they are lovely and colorful creatures.
Can we learn hidden lessons from a creature as simple as a Koi? What do drawings of the Koi move us to believe?
Koi symbolize different things. The meaning of Koi often relates to power and aspiration, though. The Japanese consider the Kio as one of the most energetic of all the fish. It is always moving, always churning up the water. It can also fight currents and swim upstream, which is one reason why the Japanese have made it a symbol of perseverance in adversity.