Anglerfish

Meaning & Symbolism

Acceptance

The Anglerfish, dwelling in the mysterious depths of the ocean, symbolizes acceptance, teaching us how to navigate the unknown with grace and understanding. Acceptance does not mean putting up with ill treatment but rather seeing things for how they really are and repositioning our perspectives and boundaries to peacefully exist. Just as the Anglerfish uses its bioluminescent lure to navigate the depths and attract prey, acceptance is active and engaging, guiding us through challenges, while giving up is passive and defeated. This deep-sea creature thrives in an environment of darkness and uncertainty, reminding us that there is more unknown in the universe than what is perceived and that true power lies in becoming comfortable with the mysteries and uncertainties of life. Alan Watts calls this the “wisdom of insecurity.”

Drawing from Eckhart Tolle’s wisdom, we learn that all we have is the present moment; if we can’t find joy in it, we must either change it or accept it. Like the Anglerfish, which has adapted to its environment rather than resisting it, we too can find peace by accepting where we are and what we cannot control. For example, if we face a challenging situation that cannot be altered, embracing acceptance allows us to move forward without suffering. This acceptance also applies to our relationships with others, understanding that everyone is on their own path. By accepting circumstances and people as they are, we can plan our next steps with clarity and intention, freeing ourselves from the burden of resistance.

Acceptance is one of the quickest ways to shift any feeling that arises with an unmet need. Acceptance applies to everything!

• How can you embrace the unknown rather than fear it?
  
• Are you willing to accept others as they are to foster deeper connections and peace?
  
• Are you ready to trust in your own wisdom and abilities regardless of the circumstances, as well as trust others to choose their own path?
• How might accepting what you cannot control allow you to channel your energy into positive action?
• What specific situations or feelings do I find most challenging to accept, and what would it feel like to release my resistance to them?

Anglerfish also symbolizes the unseen world, navigating darkness, and luring energy.

Anglerfish have a symbiotic relationship with bacteria, giving them the ability to glow with bioluminescence. Bacteria are part of the “unseen” world. Anglerfish reminds you that by strengthening your relationship with the various layers of the unseen world, you will be able to see and navigate deeper truths and emotions than most.

Anglerfish have a glowing lure that extends from their third eye to help them navigate in the dark and attract nourishment into their life. When traversing the deepest, darkest places in your life, remember to turn on your own light to guide you through. Trust in your ability to see.

Anglerfish have highly attuned organs that sense the changing pressures and movements in the water. When you feel your surroundings shift, trust it and reposition yourself accordingly. Trust your ability to navigate through the darkness. You are picking up information from the unseen world that guides you in ways the mind cannot understand.

-Tanya Casteel ©Cosmic Animals