Fish Necklaces

Ichthus Fish Necklaces and Jewelry

The cross, the dove and the Christian fish are some of the most widely recognized symbols of the Christian faith.  In an age where it is unpopular to talk about Christianity, there is a silent protest that is sweeping throughout the land. Christians are slapping Jesus fish stickers and other Christian car decals on their vehicles, wearing embroidered fish logos on their hats and shirts.  Men and women, boys and girls love to wear the cross or the ichthus fish necklaces, earrings and bracelets.

The History of the Ichthus fish symbol

The Ichthus fish symbol was used by Christians during the first few centuries A.D. as a secret symbol. The Greek letters that make of the word for fish are IXOYE, and they form an acronym that has also been associated with this symbol.  Iesous Christos Theou Yios Soter', which is translated as 'Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior'
The Christian fish symbol was also used to mark places that were safe for Christians to be, such a home or business that was owned by a Christian.  Even now it is used by believers living in countries where followers of Jesus are persecuted.

What is the proper spelling and pronunciation of "icthus"?

You may have seen IXOYE spelled in one of these ways; ixthus, icthus, ichthus, icthuse, icthys, ikhthus or ichthys.  How can we end up with so many variations of spelling? The Greek spelling of icthus in the Latin alphabet is IXOYE, the individual characters Iota, Chi, Theta, Upsilon and Sigma.   The problem is that Greek has changed over the years and various dialects pronounce the original characters in different ways. According to Greek interlinear bibles and other study tools, the proper spelling in the Latin alphabet is "ichthus".   However, the proper pronunciation agreed upon by the majority of scholars is "ik-thoos", not "ich-thoos".   So obviously there is a bit of room for debate as to which is the more practical spelling or proper pronunciation.
Another reason given for the use of the fish symbols is that Jesus told his disciples, "Follow me and I will make you fishers of men."  In this we can identify ourselves as a believer, as those who have been caught.  And we who put our trust in Christ are to share this message of salvation with others, so we in turn become fishers of men.
There is also symbolism from when Jesus took the five loaves and two fishes, supernaturally multiplying them into enough food to feed 4,000 on one occasion and 5,000 on another.  This is proof of his deity, of his abundant supply. He is the Creator God, who know our needs and who has made provision of salvation for all, in dying for the sins of the world on the cross.