Many think that the the Koi fish originated in Persia, Eastern Asia and China. Wild carp are called Koi by many Japanese. The term itself was later applied to all carp, both wild and colored.
The Japanese now call the wild carp "magoi", and colored and inbred magoi are called Koi. Those that are bred for color are called "Nishikigoi" which means colorful cloth (nishiki) and carp(goi). The depiction of the Koi fish is also one of the most popular and beautiful of the Japanese tattoo symbols.
Surprising to many Westerners is the large amount of ancient myth that surrounds this fish and their elevated status in the Orient. Their glorious colors and color combinations may contribute to these tales. The colors include silver, gold, white, yellow, orange, black and even calico.
Some legends say that these fish can climb waterfalls bravely. They also say that if the fish has been caught, it will lay on the cutting board awaiting the knife without a quiver. In Koi symbolism this has been likened to a samurai warrior facing a sword.
This theme dates back to ancient China where a legend tells of how any Koi that succeeded in climbing the falls on the Yellow River at a point called Dragon Gate would be transformed into a dragon. Based on that legend the Koi became a symbol of worldly aspiration and advancement.
Eventually the fish came to be associated with so many masculine and positive qualities that it became Koi symbolism for the annual Boys' Day Festival in Japan. In this festival, colorful streaming Koi flags are traditionally displayed for each member of the family.
The various colors of these fish represent each of the family members. Black Koi symbolism stands for the father, the red and orange for the mother, blue-and-white Koi flags stand for the son and the red and pink flags stand for the daughter.
In tattoo imagery, especially in combination with flowing water, the Koi fish symbolizes many of the same characteristics such as courage, the ability to attain high goals and the strength that enables one to overcome life's difficulties.
Many people are drawn to this type of art for the colors and meaning hidden within. Koi tattoos have become more popular in recent years. People believe that the placement of the fish on the human body is symbolic.
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