Small Summary: The Merlion, an emblematic mythical figure with the head of a lion and the body of a fish, has stood as a symbol of Singapore’s rich and vibrant history. This article delves into the origins, description, and the multifaceted meanings behind this iconic figure, as well as how it has been interpreted throughout history and into the modern era.
The Origin
The Merlion’s origins can be traced back to Singapore’s early days when it was known as Temasek – a name that is thought to be derived from the Malay word ‘tasik’ meaning lake or sea. It signifies the city’s humble beginnings as a fishing village. The lion head represents the city’s original name—Singapura or ‘Lion City,’ which is attributed to a sighting of a lion by the city’s founder, Sang Nila Utama, in the 13th century, an animal which was considered auspicious at the time.
A Description
The quintessential Merlion statue stands at 8.6 meters high and weighs 70 tons. It features a majestic lion’s head, often seen with a fierce expression, atop a graceful, curving fish’s body—the latter symbolizing Singapore’s historic ties to the sea. The most prominent Merlion statue, with water sprouting from its mouth, can be found at Merlion Park, a popular tourist destination in Singapore.
The History
The official Merlion statue was designed in 1964 by the British artist Alec Fraser-Brunner for the Singapore Tourism Board (STB) and it has since been used as their mascot. The Merlion was formally unveiled in 1972 at the mouth of the Singapore River to serve as an emblem of the island and to welcome all its visitors.
Meaning and Symbolism
The fusion of aquatic and leonine elements symbolizes Singapore’s origins as a fishing village and its powerful name. The fish represents the city’s historical association with the sea, i.e., ‘Mer’ in ‘Merlion’ stands for the sea in French, reflecting the importance of the waterfront to the city-state’s economic development. In contrast, the lion represents the original noble sense of the city’s Malay name, Singapura.
Old and Modern Interpretation
In its earlier interpretations, the Merlion was seen as a guardian figure, one that protected the city’s inhabitants with its noble strength while also ensuring their livelihood through its aquatic nature. Nowadays, the Merlion has evolved from a cultural totem to a vibrant emblem of the city’s prosperity and global identity. It is a central figure in Singapore’s tourism and branding, capturing the imagination of visitors worldwide and featuring on countless souvenirs.
In modern culture, the Merlion also inspires various interpretations, ranging from environmental stewardship—emphasizing the need to protect the oceans—to the representation of Singapore’s progress and the melding of old traditions with the new, global dynamics of the city-state.
In Short
The Merlion remains not just a static symbol but a dynamic narrative that reflects the rich tapestry of Singapore’s history, culture, and vision for the future. From its mythical roots to its prominent place along the city skyline, the Merlion continues to captivate those who visit the city and stands as a powerful representation of Singapore’s identity in an ever-changing world.