Discover the fascinating world of dream interpretation and understand the meaning behind the dreams you see. Explore different theories on why we dream and learn how dreams can reveal our deepest desires, fears, and motivations.
What is the science of dream interpretation?
Sleep is considered one of the signs of God. When a person falls asleep, their soul is freed from the confines of the body and travels towards the higher world and the heavens. Everything the soul experiences during this journey is then manifested in the form of a dream within the inpidual’s mind.
The Holy Quran mentions various terms for sleep, such as “Holm”, which is the plural form of “Ahlam”, along with “Monam” and “Rowya”. Additionally, the term “dream” is referenced in hadiths, and positive and truthful dreams are sometimes referred to as “good tidings”.
True dream
A genuine and meaningful dream is characterized by its ability to stay in one’s memory with vivid details. Conversely, a meaningless or fragmented dream fails to remain in one’s mind or, if it does, it is often disjointed and difficult to comprehend.
When does the dream come true?
According to Allameh Khalil Zahiri, who cites Imam Mohammad Bin Sirin, the time at which a dream is interpreted differs from the time it is actually experienced. For instance:
- If a dream is experienced at the start of the night, its interpretation may not surface for at least two decades.
- If a dream is experienced towards the end of the night, its interpretation may be revealed in the near future.
- Dreams experienced after dawn may be interpreted within a month.
The maximum time frame for a dream to come to fruition is twenty years, as evidenced by the interpretation of Prophet Joseph’s dream, peace be upon him, which took two decades to materialize. However, it’s important to note that these estimations are based on comparisons and approximations and are not set in stone. This is because there are no clear directives or explanations provided by the Qur’an and Sunnah on this matter.
It’s important to understand that dreaming is not something that can be controlled by an inpidual. Therefore, if someone experiences a dream where they find themselves in heaven surrounded by angels, but their actions and behavior are contrary to Sharia law, they cannot be regarded as righteous and pious solely based on this dream. Similarly, if someone has a dream where they are in the midst of hellfire, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they are sinful or disbelieving.
Naturally, certain dreams can serve as indicators of one’s actions or behavior. For instance, envisioning oneself in heaven may signify that the person has succeeded in performing a virtuous and commendable act. Conversely, a dream of hell may suggest that the person is currently engaged in wrongdoing and should strive to avoid such actions.
What is the interpretation of sleep?
According to the famous psychologist Sigmund Freud, dreams provide insight into our unconscious mind and can reveal our deepest desires, thoughts, and motivations.
While there are various theories on why we sleep, there are also differing opinions on the interpretation of dreams. Some experts assert that our dreams are unrelated to our actual thoughts or emotions, and are simply bizarre narratives that have no bearing on our waking life.
There are varying opinions on the meaning and interpretation of dreams, just as there are differing views on the purpose of sleep. Some experts posit that dreams have no connection to our genuine emotions or thoughts, and instead are nonsensical stories that are unrelated to our waking lives. However, others believe that our dreams can reveal our deepest desires, fears, and worries, particularly when they are recurring. Interpreting our dreams can offer us insight into ourselves and life itself. It is not uncommon for people to credit their dreams with influencing their best ideas.
Certain dreams are quite typical, such as falling from a high place or being pursued. Few inpiduals have not encountered falling or plummeting from a height in their dreams. These sorts of dreams are most likely due to underlying stress or anxiety. While you may believe that comparable dreams have comparable interpretations, professionals assert that the meaning behind each dream is distinct and varies for each person.
The concept of sleep and dreams from the perspective of Quran, mysticism and philosophy
“Sleep” and “dreams” are natural phenomena that are significant for human beings and hold a particular meaning in the context of human life. In the Holy Qur’an and hadiths, there are several interpretations of “sleep” and “dreams,” and they have been widely discussed in mystical and literary texts. Furthermore, from a scientific perspective, the importance of “sleep” for human health has been emphasized. For further insight, the article “The Concept of Sleep and Dreams in the Qur’an, Mysticism, and Philosophy” by Mohammad Reza Hasaraki and Hossein Firouzi provides a comprehensive overview.
Can dreams predict the future?
Dreams can be entertaining, unsettling, or just plain bizarre. Everyone dreams and can dream about a variety of topics, even if they can’t recall them the next day or upon waking. However, what is the purpose of dreaming and what do these dreams signify?
At times, dreams can become a reality or predict a future event. Additionally, dreams can also inspire one to act in a certain manner, thereby influencing future events.
