What does the Christian fish symbol mean (ixthus / icthus)?

Answer

The Christian fish symbol is one of the most widespread symbols of Christianity. Besides the cross, the fish symbol is likely the most well-known symbol of faith. It can be seen on cars, Bible covers, tattoos, and more. The connection between Christ and a simple line drawing of a fish may not be immediately obvious and may require some explanation.

In essence, the fish symbol is derived from a Greek acronym for the phrase Jesus Christ, God’s Son, Savior. In Greek, the phrase is Ίησοῦς Χριστός, Θεοῦ Υἱός, Σωτήρ. By taking the initial letter from each word in that phrase, we get ΙΧΘΥΣ, which coincidentally is the Greek word for “fish” (ixthus or icthus— the spelling can vary in English). Some versions of the Christian fish symbol incorporate the Greek letters inside or beneath the symbol itself.

The Christian fish symbol also evokes several events in Jesus’ ministry. On two occasions, Jesus performed a miraculous catch of fish for His disciples (Luke 5:4-7;John 21:4-6). He shared a meal of fish with His disciples at least twice after His resurrection (Luke 24:42;John 21:13). The temple tax miracle involved a fish «Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.», (Matthew 17:27). And, of course, the feeding of five thousand and the feeding of the four thousand.It started with a lunch that included fish (Matthew 14:15-21;15:32-38).

During the early days of Christianity, Christians were often put to death for practicing their faith, so they worshipped in secret places. A fish painted or etched on the outside door of a house let other Christians know that they would be safe and welcome inside. The ancient catacombs in Rome are filled with images of fish, carved there by Christians hiding from persecution.

Jesus Christ, God’s Son, Savior, is a wonderful summary of biblical truth regarding the Lord, and the Christian fish symbol is a beautiful way to express faith in Him. However, following Christ involves much more than sporting an ixthus on the back of one’s car. Jesus spoke often of the necessity of inward truth as opposed to outward shows of religion. Those who use a Christian fish symbol should ensure they actually know Christ, trust Him as Savior, and obey Him as Lord.