Saving Fish from Drowning

In this image, one fish is saying to the other, "So they just caught us and now they released us?! We don't owe any thanks for them!"

First, some background. The Burmese Buddhist practice of catching and releasing fish is based on the belief that individuals accumulate merit, which is seen as a means to achieve positive outcomes in this life and in future existences.

On the surface, the act of catching and releasing fish appears virtuous and compassionate. People engage in this practice with the intention of preserving life and generating positive karma. It is often performed during special occasions or religious festivals, where large numbers of fish are caught from rivers, lakes, or ponds and subsequently released back into their natural habitats.

Yet while the act of releasing fish may offer a temporary reprieve from immediate harm, it is important to consider the broader context. The practice often neglects the underlying issues of environmental degradation and overfishing that threaten aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, the ritual of catching and releasing fish becomes more about performing a prescribed action to accumulate merit rather, which can be seen as a superficial display of piety rather than genuine compassion. JMP is calling out those individuals who participate in the ritual solely for the sake of social approval or to fulfill religious obligations, without any thought of cultivating true empathy or understanding for the welfare of the fish. In other words, it is about the outer appearance of religious practice taking precedence over genuine inner transformation.

In the current time of revolution and social upheaval in Myanmar, traditional practices and conventions are being subjected to critical examination, and one should look at the cartoon with this context. People are now questioning the role and relevance of longstanding customs, including the practice of catching and releasing fish for merit. As Burmese strive for democratic reforms and social justice, individuals are challenging established norms and seeking to redefine their cultural and religious practices in a way that aligns with their evolving values. This period of transition serves as an opportunity for introspection and reevaluation, prompting a deeper exploration of the true essence of Buddhist teachings and the need for substantive change that extends beyond mere external rituals. For many, the revolution in Myanmar demands a holistic transformation that encompasses not only political and social structures but also cultural and religious practices, paving the way for a more inclusive and compassionate society.