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
Cosmic Animal Cards & Guidebook
I want to hear about your Anglerfish experiences. What stories or dreams have YOU had? Please share and join in the conversation below!
I had the strangest dream last night I distinctly recall seeing an anglerfish in a world food store it was packaged, I touched the package and the liquid in packet touched my hand and my hand went numb, the other person there told me it wouldn’t harm me but would give the impression my hand was not living then I saw a live anglerfish and people were also having the same affects on them but some others appeared dead but someone kept saying they are living but the poison makes them appear as though not living.
What a fascinating and layered dream! The Anglerfish in your dream could symbolize uncovering hidden truths or navigating situations that seem deceptive or surreal. The “numbness” might represent feeling disconnected or detached from certain aspects of life, while the idea that the poison creates the “illusion” of being lifeless could point to situations or emotions that seem paralyzing but aren’t permanent. This dream might be nudging you to explore what feels numbing or deceptive in your waking life and to trust that renewal and clarity are possible, even in moments of uncertainty. Thank you for sharing this unique experience!
On my dream, I was in a dark abyss. But oddly enough I felt like I was emitting light, and then that is when the angler fish slowly appeared before me. Right out of the abyss it approached me, in its gargantuan magnificence. It’s mouth was closed and I could only see the front of it and its one eye, looking at me from the side. I was not afraid but in awe. That is when I woke up.
I was in my workplace when a fish came out of nowhere (humpback anglerfish) i use my to hands to put it in a Big clear water. It didn’t attack me but it keep swimming. Trying to open it mouth to someone who got closer to the water. So my workmate are grabbing each other including me. I dunno whats the meaning of this dream.
What a vivid and intriguing dream! The Humpback Anglerfish is a symbol of navigating the unknown and bringing light to the darkness. In your dream, placing it in the clear water might represent your ability to create space for challenging or hidden aspects of life. Its open mouth toward others could signify potential warnings or boundaries you’re observing in your environment. The act of grabbing each other may reflect mutual support or collective caution in navigating tricky situations. This dream might be encouraging you to trust your instincts and maintain clarity, even when faced with unexpected challenges. Thank you for sharing!