Originally from Asia, Carp has had a long association with people. For thousands of years, people have used Carp for food, as a pond ornament, and for sport fishing. Since the beginning of her time with people, She has been surrounded by mythology.
The Chinese viewed Carp as a symbol of fertility since She was a prolific breeder. Also, according to the Chinese, when Carp learned all She needed in life, She “leaped the Dragon’s Gate” and became a dragon. As a Dragon-Carp, She was honored for her courage and persistence. The Chinese placed Dragon-Carp likenesses on their temples since She could spray water to put fires. In neighboring Korea, their Dragon-Carp lived for a thousand years. Koreans revered Carp as their symbol of youth, bravery, strength, and wealth. Meanwhile in Japan, Carp represented courage and endurance. Japanese boys were encouraged to be warriors like Carp.
In Europe, Carp also had many associations for people. For the Jews, Carp became a symbol of the Sabbath. First farmed by Jews in Poland, Carp became a traditional Sabbath dish. In Eastern Europe, Carp was served as the traditional main course for Christmas dinner. Meanwhile, at the Palace of Versailles in France, Carp was taught to pull bell ropes to indicate She was hungry. The King’s servants would come and feed Her in her pond.
What is this Fish whose life is so intertwined with people? Living in small groups, Carp prefers to lurk in the weeds on river bottoms. On hot days, She will rise to the water’s surface to bask in the sun. Some people consider Carp to be nuisance, for She disturbs the mud at the river’s bottom, clouding the clear water. In her feeding frenzy of tasty aquatic plants, She uproots many other plants.
Known for his writings on fishing, Izaak Walton called Carp, “the Queen of Rivers” because She has many advantages over other Fish. Preferring warm water with a standing or sluggish flow, She is abundant in man-made lakes. Carp also thrives in heavily polluted stretches of water and is very tolerant of turbid waters.
Carp teaches how to live with change. Originating in Asia, Carp was transported to alien places. Carp continued to meet the challenge by exploring and adapting to where She found Herself. Through it all, Carp has remained faithful to Herself. Living with change is the lesson to be learned from Carp.
Carp’s Teachings Include:
“If a carp can swim up the fast-flowing Hwang Ho River, then it can become a dragon.” – Chinese saying.
“For demonstrating resolve and achieving honourable against the odds, the Carp promises rich reward to those dedicated to furthering themselves and bettering their lives.” – Copyright: “Animal Dreaming”, Scott Alexander King.
Carp’s Advice Includes:
“Accepting what you are given in life and working to make it better.” Copyright: “Animal Magick”, D. J. Conway.
For those who want to know more about the relationship between Carp and those who fish Her, visit Dragon Carp, a site of a fisherman who respects Carp.
Buy books on carp and those who fish for carp from Amazon.com.
Purchase nature books and stories about carp from Amazon.com
Va. Carper
March 17, 2008