Matsya Avatar Katha – Chapter 2: The Wonderful Form of the Giant Fish

The Wonderful Form of the Giant Fish

In the previous chapter, we saw how Sage Manu was cursed and warned of the coming deluge. He was worried about how to survive this destruction. He immersed himself in penance, praying to Lord Vishnu for guidance. The very next day, as he was offering oblations in the river, a small fish came into his hands.

The Astonishing Growth of the Fish

Manu looked at the small fish. It could barely fit in his small palm. Its shining golden skin looked even more divine in the sunlight. Manu felt pity for the small fish. "How small and helpless it is," he thought. "I will protect it." He put the fish in his water pot and brought it to his hermitage. But the next day, the fish had grown so big that it could no longer fit in the pot. Manu was astonished. He put it in a large pitcher, but the next day, even the pitcher became small. The fish's size kept increasing, as if a miracle was happening. Manu couldn't understand what was happening, but he felt peace and a divine presence from within.

Manu began to think worriedly, "What kind of fish is this? Is it some illusion? But I don't feel afraid of it. Perhaps it is a sign from God." He prayed to the fish, "O fish, who are you? Please tell me. What is your mystery?"

The Divine Vision of Vishnu

As soon as Manu finished his prayer, the fish began to grow even larger. It became bigger than the pond, then bigger than the river. Finally, its size became so immense that it seemed it would cover the entire ocean. Its skin shone like the sun, and the depths of the universe were reflected in its eyes. Then, from the form of that fish, Lord Vishnu appeared. His divine radiance spread throughout the atmosphere. Manu trembled with fear and reverence. He prostrated himself on the ground and bowed to Lord Vishnu.

"O Manu," echoed the voice of Lord Vishnu. "I am pleased with your penance and your compassion. I have assumed this Matsya form. Soon, a deluge will come upon the Earth. All living beings and vegetation will be destroyed. You must protect humankind and all creatures." By the grace of Lord Vishnu, Manu's fear vanished, and he understood his duty. He prayed to Lord Vishnu for strength and guidance.

Building the Boat and Gathering Creatures

"O Manu," said Lord Vishnu, "build a giant boat. Keep all kinds of seeds, herbs, and pairs of creatures in it. When the waters of the deluge rise, I will guide the boat to the peak of the Himalayas. There you will be safe and begin a new creation." Saying this, Lord Vishnu disappeared. Manu now fully understood what he had to do. He immediately began preparations to build the boat. There was no doubt in his mind now, only duty and faith in God.