Fishy Facts: How Often Do Fish Appear In The Bible?

Swimming throughout the Bible, fish are a surprisingly common catch! But how many times exactly do they get reeled in?

The answer: Depending on the translation, fish are mentioned in over 70 verses! This includes references to “fish,” “fishes,” “fishers,” and even “fishing.”

While the exact number might vary, there’s no doubt fish are a recurring image. But why? Here are a few reasons:

Food Source: In the Bible, fish are a vital source of nourishment. From the Israelites yearning for the fish they ate in Egypt (Numbers 11:5) to Jesus’ miraculous feeding of the five thousand with fish and bread (Matthew 14:15-21), fish play a role in sustaining life.

Symbolism: Fish also hold symbolic meaning. In some cases, they represent abundance and God’s provision (Psalm 107:23). The account of Jonah being swallowed by a “great fish” (Jonah 1:17) can be seen as a metaphor for God’s forgiveness and redemption.

Occupation: Fishing was a common profession in biblical times. Disciples like Peter and Andrew were fishermen before following Jesus (Matthew 4:18-19). Jesus even referred to his followers as “fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19), highlighting the idea of spreading his teachings.

So, next time you’re reading the Bible, keep an eye out for fin-tastic references to fish! They offer more than just a glimpse into the dietary habits of biblical figures, but also serve as symbols and reminders of God’s provision and work in the world.