Goldfish/Koi

Goldfish/Koi

The Koi is a diverse and powerful symbol.

It is often found in tranquil settings, meaning that when one views a Koi; one also enters a peaceful state of mind. Both the gold colors and multicolored patterns of the goldfish and Koi are highly prized and symbolize wealth in gold. There is also strength to be found in the Koi. It is a large fish, able to swim wherever it wants. It may be in a tranquil state yet it is powerful enough to do what it wants.

Koi as a Totem Animal

The Goldfish/Koi is a powerful totem animal. This is evidences as well by its use in many symbols in eastern or oriental traditions. It has come to mean many great things, a few of which are shown below.

Luck and Abundance

The Koi and goldfish symbolizes prosperity. It brings good luck and good fortune. With its golden scales and colorful patterns, they are associated with much wealth which it will share to those it guides.

Transformation and Strength

The Koi is naturally strong. A big fish for its kind, it swims powerfully to get to where it wants. It also symbolizes a dragon in ancient eastern and oriental traditions, with legend holding that it can transform into a water dragon. Its transformative powers make it a sign of power and virility.

Calmness and Serenity

The Goldfish and Koi exist in naturally serene environments. To view the Goldfish and Koi is to be reverted into a meditative state. This brings about a feeling of calmness and peace to those that see this animal as a guide. It causes those that see it to be still as well, easing their worries and letting their minds work more freely.

Goldfish/Koi in Different Cultures

Koi and Goldfish are largely associated with Asian or Eastern traditions and history. They are seen as symbols of good luck and prosperity. The colors of the Koi are highly sought after, much so with the golden colors of the goldfish. These are seen to bring plenty of wealth to those that care for it. This is why an abundance of Koi or goldfish in homes are also naturally sought after.

Japanese legend also has it that the Koi travels against the current towards the dragon gate. The Koi which is able to break free out of the water turns into a water dragon. This symbol of strength and transformation makes it attractive to those that wish to become stronger through change.

Association with Celestial Forces

Animals are considered as messengers of celestial beings in Eastern traditions. Associated with lunar forces as it is a water creature, it can also be seen as a solar force due to its bright colors. Many Koi symbolize balance overall, between light and dark forces. These are also seen in the different patterns and colors that Koi retain, be it dark or bright gold.

They are overall seen as symbols of luck sent by the heavens to assure prosperity and abundance for its owners.

Goldfish and Koi are powerful symbols in

  • Luck.
  • Prosperity.
  • Abundance.
  • Strength.
  • Transformation.
  • Beauty.
  • Harmony.
  • Serenity.

Goldfish/Koi in Alchemy

Both the transformative powers as well as the representation of gold are powerful symbols in alchemy. Alchemy is all about transforming one substance into another, with turning ordinary metals into gold as one of the highest goals of an alchemist.

The gold representation of this fish is indeed a highly powerful symbol as it shows how a live being can become gold. Its purported ability to transform into a dragon as well holds power in efforts to change different substances.

Goldfish/ koi shows up as a spirit guide when

  • You need a change.
  • You are seeking wealth.
  • You need the strength of a dragon.
  • You are hoping for some good luck.

Call on a Goldfish/ Koi as a spirit guide when

  • You are facing a great decision about a move.
  • You are needing the strength to take on a big task.
  • You have been down on your luck with love.
  • You feel you need a small army to be in abundance to fight with you.

By Flo Saul
Jan 30, 2013