Note 1055 — Chapter XL · ICHTHYOLATRY IMPROBABLE—FISH NOT IN SACRIFICES OR AUGURIES

Pitra, op. cit., p. 515 (who refers to Buxtorf, Synag. Jud., chapter XXIV.), is incorrect, according to the Jewish Ency. (New York, 1906, vol. XII. 66 f.), which states the Tashlik—the propitiatory rite referred to—does not occur in the Talmud or the geonic writers. Fish illustrate man’s plight and arouse him to repentance, “As the fishes that are taken in an evil net,” Eccl. ix. 12; and, as they have no eyebrows and their eyes are always open, they symbolise the Guardian of Israel, who slumbereth not. See R. I. Harowitz, Shelah, p. 214.