Los Peces En El Río

The song 'Los Peces En El Río' is a traditional Spanish Christmas carol, known as a 'villancico', which is a genre of Spanish musical poetry that gained popularity in the Renaissance. The lyrics of this song are rich with religious symbolism and celebrate the nativity of Jesus Christ, reflecting the joy and wonder of this pivotal event in Christian tradition.

The opening verses depict the Virgin Mary, revered in Christianity as the mother of Jesus, engaging in humble and ordinary tasks such as combing her hair and washing clothes. The imagery of her hair being like gold and the comb of fine silver adds a layer of reverence and divinity to these otherwise mundane actions. This juxtaposition serves to remind the listener of the sacredness of Mary's role and the miracle of Christ's birth. The mention of the rosemary bush, a plant associated with remembrance and fidelity, further underscores the significance of the event being celebrated.

The chorus, which describes fish drinking in the river to see the newborn God, is a poetic expression of nature's participation in the divine event. The fish, often seen as a symbol of Christianity due to the Greek acronym 'Ichthys' representing 'Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior', are depicted as eager to witness the birth of Christ. This repetition of the fish drinking 'to see God born' emphasizes the universal joy and the miraculous nature of the nativity, inviting all of creation to partake in the celebration of this momentous occasion. The carol, with its simple melody and profound imagery, has become a staple in Spanish-speaking countries during the Christmas season, capturing the hearts of those who sing and listen to its message of joy and divine wonder.