The History of the Fish Symbol
The fish's first known use as a Christian religious symbol was sometime within the first three centuries AD. Christians began using the Greek word for "fish" as an anagram/acronym for "Jesus Christ God's Son, Savior." More about this later.
The fish outline is a logical symbol for the early Christian church to adopt. Not only was fish a common food of the day, it was also used by Jesus during His ministry.
In the years following the ascension of the resurrected Jesus to heaven, the Christian church grew rapidly. Christians soon found themselves to be the subjects of persecution by both the Romans and the Jews. In many locales, it became dangerous to be known as a Christian.
Thus, when two strangers met and thought maybe they were fellow believers, one of them would draw, on the ground, the upper half of the fish symbol.
Recognizing the symbol, the stranger would add a second curved line and complete the drawing of a fish.
It is a very simple shape to draw - just two curved strokes. It could be drawn quickly, and erased just as quickly if there was no sign of recognition on the part of the stranger.
Today Christians still use the fish as a symbol of their Christianity and to help spread the message of Jesus Christ. It transcends differences in cultures and denominations. Throughout generations the fish symbol continues to identify the true followers of Jesus Christ.
The name of Jesus brings the power of life and salvation. In a word, the name of Jesus captures the central message of the Christian faith. Together with the symbol of the fish, this emblem reminds the world that our faith isn't about religion, but a relationship with the Living God through Jesus Christ.
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