The answer is: Fish

Matt 17:27 - To pay for their taxes

Peter’s accidental catch is not just a quirky account but echoes themes of faith and provision that permeate the New Testament. In Matthew 17:27, Jesus tells Peter to catch a fish, assuring him that inside it, he will find a coin to settle their temple tax. Isn’t it fascinating how something as mundane as a fish could brilliantly illustrate divine provision? Fish in Biblical times often symbolized abundance, spirituality, and even the call of the disciples.

Adding context, this story highlights how Jesus was transcending typical expectations—taxes usually bring annoyance and burden, yet he provides in a miraculous and rather playful manner. Furthermore, fishermen, the very crowd he gathered as disciples, are the very hands through whom this provision occurs. This story can also draw us back to the first time Jesus met Peter, calling him from simple fishing to become "fishers of men" (Matthew 4:19).

And here’s a fun trivia snippet: the mention of coins particularly recalls the Jewish tradition, where inhabitants of Capernaum followed meticulous laws about various taxes. Isn’t it interesting how Jesus, often bending rules in behavior and spirit, took a route that highlights practicality and reality—a fish from the sea subverting expectations of mundane reality? So, this ancient tale connects deeply with principles of faith, guidance, and unexpected outcomes. There’s always more than meets the eye in scripture!