The story of Jonah and the big fish is found in the Bible, specifically in the book of Jonah. While the text refers to it as a ‘great fish’ or ‘big fish’, it does not specify the exact type of fish that swallowed Jonah.
Traditionally, this creature is often depicted as a whale, largely because of the translation of the Hebrew word ‘dag gadol’. However, many scholars argue that it could represent any large sea creature capable of swallowing a person. It is important to note that the story serves not just to inform about the fish but as a moral lesson about obedience and repentance.
Despite the numerous interpretations and speculations, the identity of the fish remains a mystery. The focus of the narrative is less about the creature itself and more about Jonah’s experience and the lessons learned through his journey.