The symbolism of animal dreams is a popular topic for dream interpreting. Once the fish appears in your dream, what does it mean? In different cultures, the fish may have distinctive symbolic meanings. The way you perceive the fish in waking life might influence the interpretations of your fish dreams. This article will present you with several interesting explanations when you dream about fish according to different cultures.
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Symbolic meanings of fish dream
Generally, in Asian culture, fish is a symbol of wealth and fortune. For Chinese people, fish represents luck and wealth in their mind since the word “fish” owns the same pronunciation as the word “richness”. Besides, fish is also considered a spiritual messenger of harmony, happiness, and comfort in life. The dream meaning of fish in Chinese culture may indicate the opportunity to obtain fortune or peace in reality.
In Japan, fish dreams are believed to imply prosperity, good fortune, and the ability to overcome adversity. For the Japanese, the koi fish also symbolizes longevity. Once you dream of fish, it could be a sign of luck and happiness.

In East Indian mythology, fish symbolism is related to creation and transformation. An old legend says Vishnu has turned himself into a fish and saved the world from the flood.
In the fish dream, as water represents the flow of life contained variation and alteration, the fish living in water may represent one radical change of it. The dream seems to remind you to accept any change in your life and try to shape your life in desirable ways.
The native people of America used to pass their life experience, history, and knowledge from generation to generation through the use of symbols and signs. Fish is one of them. They believe that fish comes from nature and becomes the main sustenance of people’s life. Thus, its symbolism is associated with prosperity and fertility.
Dreaming about fish may imply that you perform creatively in your work or life. It is said that many women may dream of fish when they are trying to conceive or get pregnant.

The Ichthys fish is a significant symbol for the Christians since it symbolizes Jesus Christ. The Bible mentions many instances of fish, and how Jesus multiplied the loaves and fish. In this case, the symbol of fish is related to faith, abundance, and, most important, charity.
As a result, the dream about fish might be a wake-up call to tap into your spiritual awareness and remind you to live life with purity and sanctity.
What does it mean when you dream about fish?
There are several potential meanings to dreams about fish, including receiving power, prosperity, personal growth, and fertility.
Dreaming about fish is a wonderful omen. Fish are a symbol of pregnancy because of the huge amount of eggs that fish produce. Fish are always producing offspring on a large scale, so it’s no wonder people see fish as a symbol of pregnancy—plus, a fetus basically “swims” around in your womb, kinda like a fish! Whether you see fish dreams as a symbol of literal pregnancy or as a symbol of a creative project, these dreams are a sign that you’ll be happy with the outcome.
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1. If I dream about fish jumping out of water
In dreams, water usually symbolizes life because it is a vital force that all living beings need. Whenever we see erratic events happen in water in dreams, it usually means that unexpected events are happening in our lives. A dream about fish jumping out of water is a combination of water, fish, and excitement, likely meaning that something unexpected is coming into our lives—maybe even something life-altering that will change our lives for the better.
Keep in mind that this dream doesn’t have a negative vibe—fish jumping out of water usually relates to something happy and enjoyable but unexpected.
2. If I dream of fish in a tank
A fish tank is constraining, so a dream like this could mean that you feel like there is something or someone in your life who’s holding you back. It’s important to take stock of the people you spend time with. Is there someone who may not have the best intentions at heart?
Alternately, this dream could mean that you’re having issues working on your creative goals—you feel like you’re in constant contradiction of what you want to bring for life. Getting clear on the situation takes time and energy. Plan out your goals carefully before you take any major steps.
3. If I dream about fish in dirty versus clean water
If you dream about fish in clean water, it could mean that clarity that is coming into your life. Alternately, it could mean that you’re exploring your options and gathering information in order to make an assessment in the upcoming weeks. Fish are sometimes interpreted as spiritual animals, so this dream can also be a message to trust your intuition.
Conversely, if you dream of fish swimming in dirty water, it could mean that your intuition is clogged and you feel “blocked.” You may be repressing emotions or preventing yourself from understanding matters clearly.

4. If I dream about fish dying
Simply put: You need a new outlook on life. Unfortunately, you’re feeling like you can’t reach your hopes and goals. This dream is like your subconscious telling you that you’re in need of a pep talk. Maybe you are holding on to the past and need to be more in the present? Basically, it’s time to work through some sh*t. The less weight you have on your shoulders, the better you’ll feel.
The above are some elaborations about the dream meaning of fish in different cultures, which provides one perspective of explaining such dreams. One thing is clear that the fish dreams can reflect your inner world, which could help you make positive decisions in your waking life based on your insights and judgments.
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