⟵ Back to videos

Symbolism in the Guru Granth Sahib: The Fish

Tuesday
,
11
October
2022

The symbolism of fish that cannot survive outside the water is often used to depict the nature of the relationship a human being is encouraged to have with IkOankar (1Force, Divine).

The symbolism of fish that cannot survive outside the water is often used to depict the nature of the relationship a human being is encouraged to have with IkOankar (1Force, Divine). Similarly, the thirst of a rainbird (chatrik) that only survives only on rainwater is evoked to show the exclusive nature of love an individual is supposed to develop for IkOankar.

The Sikh Research Institute recognizes its ethical responsibility to promptly correct any factual small or large errors. Please get in touch with us via email to request a correction if you have identified a mistake.

Suggest a correction →
No items found.

In This Video

Surender Pal Singh

Senior Research Associate

Surender Pal Singh is a Senior Research Associate at the Sikh Research Institute. He holds a Master’s degree in Religious Studies and English. 

View profile ⟶

Latest Videos

Thursday
,
24
September
2026

Explore Savaiye (Mahale Pahile Ke)

These ten savaiays were composed by Bhatt Kalya Ji, one of eleven poet-bards whose compositions are included in the Guru Granth Sahib. Recorded on pages 1389-1390, they begin with contemplation and praise of IkOankar (the Divine), the benevolent Giver...

watch now ⟶
Thursday
,
27
August
2026

Explore Savaiye Sri Mukhbakya II

In the second set of savaiays, Guru Arjan Sahib gently awakens us to a difficult truth: our own forgetfulness.

watch now ⟶
Thursday
,
30
July
2026

Explore Savaiye Sri Mukhbakya I

Savaiya is an ancient and significant poetic form in the Indic literary tradition. It can be composed in two styles: varnik (based on the number of letters) and matrik (based on the number of meters).

watch now ⟶

Share on Social Media

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Stay informed with our weekly updates, important events and more at SikhRI.

Thank you! Your submission has been received.
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.