Los Peces En El Rio
Shaila
The Symbolism of 'Los Peces En El Rio': A Celebration of the Nativity
The song 'Los Peces En El Rio' by Shaila is a traditional Spanish Christmas carol that beautifully captures the essence of the Nativity scene. The lyrics focus on the Virgin Mary and the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ, using vivid imagery and symbolic elements to convey a sense of wonder and reverence. The recurring image of the Virgin Mary combing her golden hair with a fine silver comb between curtains adds a touch of divine elegance and purity to the scene. This act of grooming symbolizes preparation and sanctity, highlighting Mary's role as the mother of Jesus.
The chorus, which repeats the line 'Pero mira cómo beben los peces en el río,' translates to 'But look at how the fish in the river drink.' This metaphorical imagery suggests that even the natural world is in awe of the birth of Jesus. The fish drinking repeatedly can be seen as a symbol of the continuous and unending admiration and celebration of this divine event. The act of drinking water, a life-sustaining element, underscores the idea that the birth of Jesus brings spiritual nourishment and renewal to all of creation.
Additionally, the song mentions the Virgin Mary washing and hanging clothes on rosemary, with birds singing and the rosemary blooming. This scene further emphasizes the harmony between the divine and the natural world. The blooming rosemary and singing birds symbolize new life and joy, reinforcing the theme of renewal and celebration. Shaila's rendition of this traditional carol brings a modern touch to a timeless story, making it accessible to contemporary audiences while preserving its rich cultural and religious significance.