Islamic dream interpretation is a science that has been studied for over 1400 years. It is also related to current psychological theories of dreams.

Scholars cite that one should only tell their dreams to those they like and trust. They should not disclose them to anyone else, as this may trigger them to plot against you.

Symbolism

Symbolism is one of the most important aspects of Islamic dream interpretation. Different symbols have different meanings depending on their context. Moreover, some dreams have specific significance for certain people or for particular events.

Dreams are considered as messages from Allah and are interpreted in the light of the Quran, Sunnah, and the actions of the sahaba. They also take into account the personal disposition of the person who dreams.

Hence, the significance of a dream is based on the intention of the dreamer in his waking life and his actions and intentions towards others. For example, a man dreams of seeing fire in the forest. Ibne Sireen advises him to go and explore that forest because there might be hidden treasure in it. The man pays heed to the advice and goes to the forest. But he is murdered there by some beast.

This shows that a dream is only as meaningful as its interpretation. Thus it is best to take it to a qualified interpreter.

Significance

Throughout recorded history dreams have played an important role in human culture. They have inspired sages and prophets, poets and kings and also influenced the most creative psychologists/philosophers of our times.

The prophet Muhammad sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam used to convey his dreams to trusted and loved ones. He would define particular symbols, objects and animals that would be significant in the dream and provide a specific interpretation. These definitions are often found in dictionaries of dream symbols but relying on them requires insight into the greater corpus of the Sunnah and a knowledge of authentic sahih narrations.

The ahaadeeth state that true dreams are sometimes glad tidings from Allah, or warnings or windows to the future. They could also be a sign of good deeds or a reminder to the follower of his deen. It is recommended to keep the heart clean, speak the truth, eat halal food, avoid that which is forbidden in the shari’ah and sleep in a state of purity facing the Qiblah in order to obtain a true dream.

Relationship with the Unconscious Mind

For Muslims, dreams are a source of guidance and glory. They also serve as warnings for the person or group. These can be warnings of mistakes they are making, sins that they are committing, or of a bad end if they continue on the same path of deviation and misguidance.

There are many different theories on dream interpretation in Islam. Some of them are similar to the theories proposed by modern psychologists. Other ideas and beliefs are more ancient.

According to Shia hadiths, the soul (nafs) is capable of cognition, awareness, judgment and decision-making. The nafs is connected to the body by means of the heart and can separate from the body during dreaming. The nafs can communicate with other souls in the same dream or even connect with other events and times. This is what causes the feeling of deja vu. This type of connection is known as ru’ya. Veracious dreams are able to carry information for the future.

Methods of Interpretation

There are several methods of interpretation used in Islamic dream interpretation. The first is to focus on the context of the dream and consider its meaning. The next is to examine the dream’s symbols and their significance. Finally, it is important to avoid hasty interpretations.

A good place to start is with the Quran and the traditions of the Prophet. These are the foundation for any Islamic dream analysis. Once you have a clear understanding of these, you can begin to analyze your own dreams.

Using these techniques and guidelines, you can gain a deeper understanding of your Islamic dreams and how they relate to your life and spiritual journey. It is also important to remember that dreams can have multiple interpretations and that different cultures may influence the way they are interpreted. Also, dreams should not be interpreted hastily and should only be done with the guidance of an experienced interpreter. Doing so can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations.