Koi Fish

While i was drawing a koi fish to add on to my other koi fish sleeve, i decided to do a write up about its meaning. “Koi” is simply “carp” in Japanese. Koi Fish tattoos is one of many popular Asian tattoos people get on there body (it is also my favorite). Koi fish are very beautiful and colorful, but not alot of people know the actually meaning or there origin. Koi fish, overall, are viewed as symbols of love and friendship. These and other meanings ranging from courage to strength are the reasons that they are such popular symbols to get tattooed on there body.

It is said that the Koi fish climb waterfalls bravely, and, if caught, it lies upon the cutting board awaiting the knife without a quiver, not unlike a samurai facing a sword. This theme dates back to ancient China, where a legend tells of how any koi that secceeded in climbing the falls at a point called Dragon Gate (on the Yellow River) would be transformed into a dragon. Based on that legend, it became a symbol of worldly aspiration and advancement. Koi are also referred to as “living jewels,” and so are likewise associated with luck and good fortune. The image of five golden koi are said to mean “eternal wealth” and well-being.

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