Abacus Represents a mental effort to develop intellectual activities. On the other hand, it is an element indicating the need to organize or review finances. It may be considered the desire to take inventory of possessions, both material and spiritual.

Abandonment This dream relates to leaving something behind and opening new horizons. Many times, the feeling of abandonment is linked to escape, which indicates cowardice regarding a given situation. Conversely, if the abandonment produces a feeling of joy, it is a sign of hope in the future. Dreaming of being abandoned generally predicts problems and difficulties; it means you feel uncared for or emotionally neglected. It may be due to a grudge you have kept since childhood. Usually, it reflects a need for self- expression or being understood by others. If the person who leaves is your mother, these problems could be of material nature; however, if the one who leaves is your father, it usually means unwillingness to achieve your goals. You may also be seeking advice about an aspect of your life or someone with authority to show you the way forward. In contrast, if it is your partner who says goodbye, you must face all kinds of problems of your own making. When abandonment is the protagonist itself, the dream indicates insecurity caused by the desire to possess the person who is turning their back. Finally, if it is you who abandons someone or something, the unconscious is pushing you to change environments or habits, because you are too attached to certain principles or settings. When this kind of dream comes after the death of a loved one, it means you are starting to recover from pain and to accept your feelings of anger, depression, fear, or even abandonment. If you leave something unpleasant, you will get good economic news. When you leave someone you value, the times ahead will be difficult. If you are the one abandoned, reconciliation will arrive soon.

Abbey All religious buildings in dreams can be interpreted, roughly, in the same manner. The abbey symbolizes questions or concerns—in the

intellectual, moral or spiritual realm of our life—that are about to emerge. When a building appears in a dream, it usually represents the dreamer herself, her body, or the different levels of her mind. An abbey is a sacred place and not lavish, like your true Self. If the abbey is old, it is advisable to consult the old stories of the Celtic tradition and the first Christians; their valuable knowledge will favour your spiritual awakening. Although almost all faiths believe dreaming of an abbey is a good omen, here are some different superstitions. When the dreamer is a young woman, this dream predicts disease. And, if the abbey is in ruins, it means that your plans will fail. However, if the path to access it is blocked, you will be safe from a painful mistake.

Abbot The figure of the monk or abbot is associated with wisdom. It appears in moments of doubt and can signify the need to go to a person willing and able to listen, understand, and guide the dreamer (who cannot solve the problem alone). Ancient traditions claim that dreaming of an abbot means sickness is near or someone is hatching a conspiracy. Dreaming of an abbess, however, denotes good friendships.

Abdomen The cause of this dream may be physiological: heartburn or

indigestion. From an emotional standpoint, it represents something that you can’t stand anymore and wish to get away from. The interpretation varies according to the size of the abdomen. Thus, a heavy one shows that the subject is conscious of her personal or social duties; a slim one symbolizes losses or economic issues; if it is growing, it is because the loads get heavier by the day and you can’t foresee how to deal with them; and a wrinkled one predicts betrayal. If the abdomen is bleeding there is a chance of an accident or tragedy within the family; and if it belongs to a child, infection may occur shortly. It also has sexual connotation. On a woman, it predicts longing for maternity. According to traditional folklore, dreaming of your own abdomen is a sign good things are on the way, but you will have to work for them. Likewise, it predicts infidelity. An image of a worn abdomen warns against possible lies.

Abduction Dreaming that you are victims of abduction signifies that you

should quickly mobilize yourself if you do not want to be trapped in

distressing situations that will limit your liberty to make decision. The dream could also be warning you of someone (possibly your dream abductor, which could also symbolize a part of your personality) systematically imposing their expectations on you. You have to try to fix the most pressing problems instead of lamenting in silence. The key is not to permit others to decide for you.

Ablutions (a ritual consisting of bathing in clean water) symbolize purification. In ancient times, this practice was considered to help eliminate inner demons. In the oneiric field, ablutions are a sign that you are in a great position to conduct business in which entrepreneurial spirit is required. Of course, if the water is cloudy it is a sign that, despite your best intentions, you will have to overcome all kinds of adversaries.

Abortion An abortion (your own or someone else’s) signifies that the situation that is worrying you will not end happily the way you are approaching it. It is advisable, then, to change tactic, to build new projects on stronger foundations, and to plan again without trusting appearances. No wonder abortion is a synonym for failed plans. It indicates liberation, the end of a penance, troubles that will no longer weigh on the dreamer.

Abscess It may be the cause of a real physical discomfort. This is the first choice to rule out. In other cases, abscesses are always something undesirable. When they appear in dreams it can be a sign that there is something inside yourself that makes you uncomfortable. It can also be interpreted as a warning about forthcoming problems or issues that must mature before they are resolved. It predicts wealth for friends and relatives. But for the dreamer, it is a sign of health complications related to sleeping itself.

Absolution Dreaming that you are absolved (by a person, a tribunal, or any other institution, either religious or secular) predicts that others will improve their attitudes toward you. It can even be that you forgive yourself. It is important to keep in mind that many individuals find the most severe judge inside themselves.

Abstention Dreaming that you are in front of huge amounts of food or beverage but unable to try them represents a situation of abstinence. It is often a recurrent dream, especially, while dieting or for individuals that are trying to overcome an addiction. It represents the enormous effort the dreamer is exerting in order to achieve their goal. Sometimes, a former smoker dreams that he holds a cigar and, without even realizing, has smoked half of it. Frequently, the dream ends violently. The dreamer wakes up terrified, feeling that all her effort was in vain. This type of dream seems to be a signal from the unconscious not to trust your self-control entirely and remain alert to avoid falling back into such a vice.

Abundance As it occurs with some symbols, the interpretation of abundance is the opposite of its literal manifestation. Dreaming of material wealth provokes a very nice and pleasant feeling but this kind of oneiric image should be taken with due precaution. The temporal possession could lead you into thinking that it is permanent and will last forever. However, as is widely known, that is not the case. Judeo-Christian tradition clearly understands this as Joseph explains the dream of seven fat cows and seven gaunt ones (the parable symbolizes the alternation between prosperity and poverty). Ultimately, this kind of dream could be reminding us we must not get used to any particular condition of abundance because chances are high it will evolve into a period of famine. This dream provides a false certainty, an external abundance that, in fact, only hides misery. In case such fortune is shared with a friend, it is a happy prediction of achievement, satisfaction, and joy.

Abyss The majority of primitive peoples understood abysses as various deep marine or terrestrial features. To the Celts, the abyss was found inside the mountain; in Ireland and Japan it was located at the bottom of the sea or lakes; and among the Mediterranean peoples it was beyond the horizon. Each individual has their own problems and own daily abyss (in which they occasionally fall victim to anxiety). Conflictive situations, if not addressed promptly, can become “abysmal.” Thus, this dream represents you are on the verge of something but you are afraid to take the plunge. It is important to find out what that fear is about and why you feel so bad. When the abyss is dark it likely symbolizes your unknown Self. If you are also anxious, you will not be pleased about what your feelings and hidden fears have to tell you. Dreams about abysses are often accompanied by vertigo. This vertigo can be physical if you are lying on the edge of the bed; emotional, when you are unable to control your feelings about others; existential, due to absence of goals that give your life meaning; or directly related to your circumstances, perhaps because you need to make a decision without knowing which option is best. In the latter case, it is advisable to take enough time and choose well, thus avoiding any type of precipitation. Usually an abyss forecasts financial difficulties. You must be very careful with any deals being considered in the next few the days. According to ancient beliefs, this dream portends problems in love, work, or health. It is recommended to be cautious.

Acacia It is a tree of high symbolic importance. Both in ancient Egypt and Christianity, it has a spiritual character tied to the immortality of the soul. Depending on the plot of the dream, seeing or being close to a blossoming acacia represents a moment of calm and spiritual growth. On the other hand, if the acacia is losing leaves, it may indicate a fear of aging or a feeling of loss. It suggests internal strength. The person who dreams of an acacia will not be defeated by adversity and will receive good news shortly.

Academy If the dreamer is not of school age, the academy suggests frustration due to a failed project, as well as the need for news on pending subjects from people around them. Dreaming that you are the owner of an academy shows that, though lessons will be learned in real life, they will not be clearly assimilated or properly applied.

Acanthus A plant with delicate flowers and thorns. In the Middle Ages it was considered a symbol of pain and sin. In dreams, it indicates a situation that is both difficult and pleasant. Another possible interpretation is a triumph after much effort.

Accident Studies have verified that some individuals have premonitory dreams, many of them about disasters or accidents; despite this fact, our oneiric activity is often an expression of our fears and secret anxieties. Therefore, dreams that portray accidents must not necessarily be taken literally because they tend to highlight a conflict in which we are immersed. So, if you are victim of an accident maybe there is something in real life that is not going well or you are taking too much risk. Sometimes it is necessary to review your existence and try to avoid making mistakes. When it is a car or train accident, the incident indicates that your judgments are precipitated, which may portend future arguments. But if you dream of a plane crash, the unconscious is transmitting a clear symbol of irrationality (the dreamer refuses to see reality as it is). If you are driving at high speed, maybe the dream is telling you to take everything more calmly and to avoid rushing. When the accident victim is someone else, you must find the answer in your feelings. Perhaps, the envy or hatred you feel for that person can only find an outlet in your dreams. In the case of a home accident, the conflict is not far from the everyday environment of the person. Lastly, disasters caused by natural elements, such as fire or water (fires, floods, earthquakes), are usually related to a fact that has recently impacted us. It is recommended to be cautious for twenty-four hours following this dream. According to some oneiric traditions, accidents in the sea represent matters of love. On land, they symbolize business problems. Witnessing an accident denotes cowardice; helping the injured, betrayal of a friend. According to gypsy tradition, this dream is a warning so the accident can be prevented.

Acclamation If you are acclaimed but unable to see the face of those who do so, it means you are in danger (vanity is hurting you). On the other hand, if cheers are scarce and you can identify the faces of those who praise you, success will be brief and will only serve to flatter your ego.

Accordion If you are playing a monotonous melody on the accordion, the unconscious is probably warning you that you complain too much, which in turn puts off people who might help you. If you listen to someone playing this instrument it means that you are the subject of someone else’s unfounded complaints.

Account Its symbolism is similar to the ABACUS. It is interpreted as a warning sign. It is commonly said that when there is little the subject counts. So it may be indicative of a point in life where you feel you need to control your expenses or the delivery of your affections.

Accumulating Such images have a reverse meaning. So, if you dream of

accumulating money you must be careful—economic losses are approaching. If it is about collecting objects, the episode might predict scarcity.

Accusation If in dreams you are publicly accused, it is likely you feel guilty about some matter of ethical or moral character. If this occurs in front of your family, it will be because you are not sufficiently consistent. If the charge occurs in private, you may be carrying a small remorse.

Acid This corrosive substance may indicate complicated and even dangerous relationships with the environment. Thus, caution is advised when relating to others; advice could be interpreted as criticism and turn against you. If a woman dreams of acidulous liquors it means that she will soon be immersed in distress.

Acorn This fruit is a symbol of prosperity, physical health, and spiritual well-being. Its appearance in dreams indicates that the dreamer goes through a fortunate time of greatness and spiritual strength. According to gypsy tradition, an acorn in dreams indicates health, vigour, and material gains.

Acrobat An acrobat symbolizes inversion—a need to reverse the situation in all crises (personal, moral, collective, historical). Therefore, to see yourself, or an acrobat, pirouetting in a dream warns you against a situation of instability, because this type of dream involves risk. If it is an uncomfortable feeling, it might mean the instability happening in real life could end negatively (for example, economic losses). In these cases, the resolution of the dream will match future events. On the contrary, if these stunts are pleasant from an aesthetic point of view, the conflict you are worried about will probably make you stronger. And the most important is that you will clearly discover your true direction in life. Popular tradition attributes the acrobat to inversion, the turning of a situation: adversity turned into joy, and vice versa, happiness turned into obstacles.

Actor/actress Dreaming that you are an actor or actress indicates that you feel dissatisfied with your personality, and might need to perform or pretend in order to be successful. The mask intrinsic to the figure of the actor might be useful to prevent being hurt by the attacks of others, but this attitude often hides your authenticity. Dreaming that you have forgotten your role in a play is a sign you have a hard time adjusting to everyday situations. If it is not you who is playing a role but someone else, you will have to watch out for deceptions; it is likely someone around you is hiding their true intentions.

Adam (and Eve) The figures of Adam and Eve predict that a memorable event will dash our hopes of success. Seeing the two of them in the garden means that betrayal and treachery will plot together in order to banish good fortune.

Admission This dream is a warning that calls for rectification of attitudes, judgments, or dreamer’s actions during waking life. The mind of the

individual is not satisfied with itself and the unconscious manifests so in this way.

Adoption If the dreamer does not have children in real life (but the individual does want them), these types of oneiric thoughts will simply reflect such unrealized wishes. Otherwise, the adoption may mean that you are accepting responsibilities that do not belong to you. Although you might receive admiration by doing so, it really makes your life harder. On the other hand, these images are also related to infertility and distrust in your own capabilities. Therefore, you should rely more on yourself and try to develop the creative aspects of your personality. Dreaming that you are being adopted ensures a profitable future, while adopting a child predicts wealth accumulation during old age, or an inheritance if it is a relative’s adoption.

Adultery Dreaming that you are cheating on your partner means that your relationship does not satisfy you at all and you may be having difficulties that go beyond your emotional level. Maybe you are concerned about your sexuality or you want something that is not as convenient for you. Adultery may also reflect the need to overcome certain prejudices or repressions, so it is very helpful to look at the characteristics of the person with whom you are unfaithful to your partner. These traits will reveal your current needs and, thus, the causes of dissatisfaction that produced this type of dream. Likewise, it is important to remember that during the days before a wedding, the bride and groom tend to experience dreams about adultery. Thus, as you approach the date of the big day, the bride and groom often imagine themselves, while asleep, having sex with third parties. These scenes are directly related to the fear and anxiety experienced by many individuals due to the imminence of a commitment like marriage. When a man dreams he is an adulterer, there will be an action of legal nature. If it is a woman, she will lose the love of her husband.

Adversary Confronting an adversary reflects fear and, at the same time, the decision to address your personal issues or limitations. It is probably

representative of an aspect you dislike about yourself and that has created an inner conflict. It is important to be attentive to the way the conflict resolves because it will be indicative of how you feel in real life. It is said that beating an opponent in dreams brings misfortune because it means negative friendships will end up hurting you in real life.

Adversity Adversity means that, in real life, you need to respond rapidly to a situation or challenge. In oneiric terms, it usually means creative momentum and positive energy. It can also be attributed to the fact that you are tired and need to recover.

Advice/council To give advice announces a breakup; to receive them, reward and faithful friends; to ask for them ensures a triumph. A family council is a sad omen of struggle; a war council denotes painful memories; a State council ensures protection. (See GRANDFATHER)

Agate Dreaming of an agate is a sign that you feel helpless, so you seek help from others in order to solve certain problems. If in real life the dreamer is dedicated to agricultural activities, then this promises good harvests.

Age Poet William Blake stated that “progress is the punishment of God.” The life’s path is a personal experience that often involves gradual loss of childhood’s values. Age-related dreams can have several different meanings. Dreaming that you are younger indicates the need to review the past. Some aspect of childhood or adolescence that has not been settled is emerging now. However, if you dream of being older than you currently are, you may be anticipating events. In this case, the unconscious is reminding you to live day by day, intensely, without thinking too much about the future. Dreaming of senior citizens reports good luck. If you grow older, a failure is announced. If it’s a friend who gets older the dream tells that she will let you down. Dreaming of young people, however, is a sign of family reconciliation and favourable time for launching new companies. Dreaming that you become young again predicts you will make great efforts to regain lost opportunities. If a mother dreams that her adult child is a baby again the dream announces

healing of old wounds and revival of youthful hopes.

Aggression Situations in which we attack others or are attacked by others represent a difficult time and a hostile environment around us. It is possible that the dreamer is refraining from openly expressing negative opinions due to fear.

Agonizing This dream portends a radical change in the life of those who experience it. So, if you are sick and agonize in a dream, it is likely that you will recover soon. On the other hand, if you are perfectly healthy, it is a sign that you are threatened by a disease. If it is a different person who agonizes, that person’s attitude towards you will turn around. To see oneself dying is, for some, a key sign of illness, pain, or loss of inheritance. And for others, a prediction of longevity. To see somebody unknown agonizing indicates unexpected benefits.

Air Out of the four elements, air and fire are considered active and masculine, while water and earth are passive and feminine. In elementary cosmogony, sometimes fire is considered the primordial source of all things, but the belief in the air as foundation is more widespread. At the oneiric level, air refers to communication, reason, logic, and, above all, imagination. Dreaming that you are being transported through air indicates that you begin to clearly see your own issues and that you are moving away from those problems. Air, in fact, helps to establish a balance between actions and emotions. If the air is cold, you might be unfairly judging someone close who appreciates you. On the other hand, if it is humid air (or steam) it means that you are not thinking clearly so your decisions may be wrong. Breeze, moreover, is inspiring spirit and life-giving force. Clean and clear air, since ancient times, is an omen of serene prosperity, happiness, and luck, as well as friendship and reconciliation. However, for some old books of dreams, dreaming of air means our hopes will vanish.

Alarm As in real life, alarms that appear in dreams are warnings against danger that must be taken into account to avoid unpleasant situations; especially if these images are frequent. The oneiric alarms can be sirens, whistles, shouts, or light signals. In the latter case, if they are located in a door or window it means that people that you trust could betray you. If it is yourself who sets the alarm off, then you must take on your projects as soon as possible; situations that could alter those plans may appear later.

Alchemy For Carl Jung, the art of alchemy was a system of symbols. The transformation of the subject occurred through them: the subject’s personality would go from a basic state (lead) to a different one (gold). So, he considered that the symbols from alchemy were archetypal images of the unconscious. If you have this dream, therefore, it is possible you will go through an internal change. Alchemy was, in the Middle Ages, what psychology is for us today. Its symbolism still identifies with internal success throughout the unconscious.

Alcohol Its figure represents the union of two opposite elements: water and fire. The vital force of both complements to one another and produces an explosive result. It is a purifying element, but is also a way to drunkenness.

Algae Algae that appear in oneiric thoughts may have very diverse interpretations. If they are collected or simply found, the subject is not acting sensibly, so you should reconsider your ways. When others are those who collect them, it means that some of your secrets will be made public by close people who want to harm you. Dreaming that you eat algae implies gathering forces to address adversity. If you only taste them, wasting them, there is the possibility that a business fails.

Alien It marks an encounter with a part of you that you find strange or incomprehensible. It may feel hostile or contrary to you. First, you need to

figure out what it is, and also, why you reject it. Perhaps, you have been behaving in an unusual way lately. It is a mistake not to accept this fact. What at first seems terrifying, over the time can become a great help for success. In addition, the alien can be yourself. The cause may be a recent event, such as a new job. Getting used to a new environment often makes us feel like real Martians. Many people believe that aliens are another product of modernity, so there are no traditional interpretations of this dream.

Almond tree The blossomed almond tree announces the beginning of spring. Its white flowers are beautiful but at the same time delicate and fragile. The almond tree is associated with feelings of rebirth and renovation. Despite all that, this tree flowers’ fragility indicates projects may not be long lasting.

Almonds If you dream of almonds it means that you will enjoy pleasant moments after overcoming some difficulties. However, if they are bitter, you may face disappointment that will bring you sadness during a certain period of time. If this dry fruit appears damaged, you will go through disillusion regarding the achievement of your desires.

Alms If you are given alms in a dream, an economic project that you have underway may fail. However, it also means that you get by with little. Although a dream about alms seems to have only connotations related to money, it may also be linked to the spiritual realm. If you ask for alms but do not receive them, it means you are going through a precarious time. But if you give alms to another person, it may be an omen of unexpected gains. Alms are an omen of triumph over the difficulties and of longevity.

Alphabet To recite the alphabet while sleeping indicates not only the need to organize the ideas, but also a waste of the subject’s talents in the past, through neglect or indifference.

Altar An altar could suggest acknowledgement, adoration, or exaltation for the most religious people. Altars also predict forthcoming weddings, although if they are ruined it is a reflection of grief and loss of moral values. From a religious standpoint the altar has different meanings. It is a place of sacrifice, so this dream could refer to a sacrifice you need to make or something that you have sacrificed for a good cause. It is not always related to something material. Sometimes it is necessary to sacrifice your own ego and to express your own real feelings some more. An altar is also a symbol of a marriage between the conscious and the unconscious. The union of this opposing elements favours the creation of a unique and strong personality. Dreaming that you are in a church is a bad omen because it represents mistakes and signs of repentance. If there is a priest by the altar, it warns against disputes and domestic or professional problems. However, if you look at this church from the outside, blessing and fortune are coming soon.

Altar candle An altar candle symbolizes the efforts you have to make to get to know everything around you, the passage of time consumed slowly. It conveys a sense of heaviness, slowness. A lit candle is an announcement of marriage or birth. To see that it is slowly burning indicates good health; but if it is quickly consumed it predicts disease.

Altitude Dreaming of altitudes without feeling vertigo means that the dreamer is courageous and undertakes any given challenge. In other words your

unconscious is telling you that you are hard to scare. On the contrary, once on the top, dreaming that you get sick indicates that you are still not prepared to face the issues you have to deal with. To the ones that experience this dream it is advisable to wait a prudent time before beginning any given project.

Ambulance The ambulance is a symbol of help, so it is a positive omen. If you perform a dangerous job in real life, the meaning of the ambulance has no premonitory character, but it simply advises that you observe maximum security measures.

Ambush It usually indicates fear of unexpected changes that can have negative consequences on the dreamer’s life. It denotes insecurity and precaution toward the surrounding environment and also an inability to control a situation. If the dreamer is the one who prepares the ambush the meaning is the opposite: it reflects confidence, tact, and boldness to manage dangerous situations.

Amputation Dreaming that you have a limb amputated represents the inability to perform some of the activities that you usually perform with it. Behind this situation, there is a fear you should try to overcome.

Amulet It shows that the dreamer believes in fate, fortune, and, therefore, bad luck. This image also indicates that, at the time, a “childish spirit” dominates you, so it is better not to make practical decisions of high impact. Instead, it is a good opportunity for games and fantasy. The amulet is also a symbol showing the impulse to control or manipulate anything or anyone.

Ancestor See GRANDPARENTS

Anchor An anchor transmits stabilizing force. It usually appears when you need confidence and a decisive influence in life. On the other hand, it also has negative connotations, as it may represent something that is holding you back and limiting your freedom. Perhaps, in this sense, you feel stuck in a relationship or a problem. Dreaming that you drop the anchor advises that you must pause to meditate. And if you pull it out you are ready to get going. According to the Freudian interpretation, dreaming of an anchor indicates that the subject is chained to the figure of the mother (the sea would represent the mother). Old superstitions claim that if a woman has this dream, one of her sons will become a sailor. In addition, it is said that it brings good luck to the sailor who dreams of it. For the rest, it denotes a change of residence or travel

abroad. Typically, such omens are always good, but if the anchor appears hidden underwater, it expresses disappointment.

ANGEL ALONG

Analysis of the dream

Ruth dreamed: At night I was on the roof of my house when I saw an angel flying. He was very handsome, measuring more than 6 feet, strong build, and long blond curls. The only outfit he was wearing was a long transparent tunic so I could tell he had a muscular body. I was impressed by his presence and in that moment, I felt a deep love. I never had that feeling in a dream. He remained suspended in the air, looking at me and smiling; and then he said, ‘Ruth, open the door. I want to come into your house.’ I woke up with a very pleasant tingling belly.” The oneiric angels are often carriers of divine messages. For more than two years Ruth had kept her heart doors closed. Someone broke her heart and she was not receptive to love at all, so she was not able to fall in love again. At the time of this dream Joe had appeared in her life, and with him, a whole torrent of romantic feelings. However, she remained hard and contemptuous to him. She liked him a lot but was afraid to fall in love. The angel asking for permission to enter her house represents her unconscious willing to accept love again. To fall in love in dreams reflects the subject’s desire to achieve a deep and sincere relationship.

Angel Angels have always been considered the messengers of God. In psychological terms, this dream could be a message from those parts of your inner self that want to lead you towards satisfaction and happiness. Angels also symbolize the invisible, the hidden forces. Dreaming of them, in this case, indicates that you have embarked on a new journey in the course of personal evolution. So, it announces that you have great opportunities for self-fulfilment and you must not waste them. If the angel looks sinister, you must look for something that is wrong in real life. It is important to take note of it and to dedicate yourself to fix it. Finally, dreaming of the angel of death is not a bad omen. Chances are it is related to your own anxiety that is looking for a way of expression. The oneiric angel predicts good luck in love, relationships, and friendships. When there are more than one it means that you will receive an inheritance; when it comes into your house, you will be healthy.

Animals Animals often represent, in general, the qualities or defects with which they are traditionally associated. So, the dog may represent loyalty; dove, peace; turtle, longevity; tiger, power; etc. However, like in the other entries of this dictionary, you must always take into account the personal circumstances of the dreamer. If, for example, the dreamer has been bitten by a dog, her unconscious would hardly associate the figure of the dog with fidelity. On the other hand, animals refer to our most primal instincts and our basic desires. The dream may be calling attention to some aspect of your nature that you repress or underestimate. In any case, it is advising you to try to be more spontaneous and less rational. If you dream of eating an animal, it means that you are assimilating natural wisdom. If you fight against it, it means you are having trouble with your hidden self, rejected by the conscious. If the animal is guarding a treasure, then the material passions are preventing you from spiritual fulfilment. Its meaning depends on whether it is about domestic or wild animals. While the wild animal is indicative of secret enemies and professional problems, the domestic one announces the return of absent friends and reconciliation. To own, feed, and care for them, especially if they are ruminants, indicates wealth and good businesses. Those endowed with horns predict happiness.

Antenna Through an antenna you can increase the number of perceptions received. Thus, if you dream of this element, you should be aware of information that can be very useful.

Ants When they are associated with pleasant oneiric images, ants are synonymous with difficult preparation work. But on many occasions, their multiplicity provokes an unfavourable meaning. If you see them invading your house, it demonstrates stress you suffer from problems that worry you. The most serious is to dream that they cover your body: this could reflect certain mental disorders. To dream of ants can also be a sign of a cutaneous eruption. Winged ants augur dangerous journeys. To squash them, destruction of your own fortune.

Anvil The anvil is made to support the blacksmith’s blows as he moulds iron. Dreaming of this tool indicates that you should endure the pressure of the thing to which you are submitted. Your strength will be compensated generously in the long run.

Anxiety No one has yet discovered the function of dreams in our lives. Some scientists believe that we sleep in order to dream, because dreams tidy all our emotions. Different experiments have shown that people who are sleep deprived present greater emotional disorders (for example, a disproportionate anxiety). Dreams, therefore, bring the psychological balance back. It is very common to have dreams that express anxiety and emotions that you cannot channel in real life. According to Freud, they show repressed aggression and resentment. Many of those, in fact, come from the subject’s childhood. So

wherever this oneiric anxiety appears, it is advisable to seek the hidden feelings that really cause it. Some beliefs state that anxiety dreams indicate exactly the opposite. In other words, it won’t be long until your concerns are resolved. And, in a sense, when the individual expresses their fears in dreams, they get closer to their dissipation.

Ape The character of the ape tends to be gentle, so this dream could symbolize that part of your interior that wants to have a more simple and natural behaviour. If the ape gives you fear, it represents the dark and repressed side of your personality. This dream denotes that there will be people who deceive you, so you will soon suffer trickery. In business, you should be very cautious with the promises that people make, as they could be false. If the ape is in a tree, one of your relatives will lie to you which will create large problems in the future.

Appetite This dream could take place when you have gone to bed while still being hungry. However, dreams that refer to appetite may reflect a need for more love and affection, as well as the need to express emotions. In any case, dreaming that you have an appetite is evidence of a desire to live and an important stream of energy. Having a lot of appetite is a sign of growing apart from family and friends. Not having it presupposes the arrival of bad news.

Apple The apple is related to sex; it symbolizes pleasure and sensuality. It’s the forbidden fruit, the sin that Adam and Eve committed in paradise. In oneiric terms, it reveals a desire to enjoy earthly pleasures. If it is tasty, it indicates emotional satisfaction; if it is green, difficulties; if it is rotten, frustrations. From a Freudian point of view, eating an apple is synonymous with sexual appetite. The apple, however, also represents knowledge and freedom of choice. Just what Adam and Eve obtained when they left behind their innocence. Especially if they are red, dreaming of apples is a good omen. If they are ripe and sweet, you will be rewarded; if they are sour, you may suffer losses because of your own foolishness. Apples lying on the ground predict the dishonesty of your friends. Finally, if they are rotten, all your efforts will be in vain.

Apron The apron is usually synonymous with attaining the most secret desires. However, you must address its features to fully decipher the dream’s meaning. Thus, if the apron is clean, those wishes will be achieved thanks to good luck; if it is broken or dirty, after hard work; and if it is white, with the help of a friend. If a woman dreams of an apron, the dream is a sign of a marriage full of hardships and difficulties.

Aquarium As always, the correct interpretation of such dreams depends on the details. So, looking at an aquarium with clear water and fish swimming inside reveals a happy and peaceful mood. However, if the water is dirty or the fish are nervous, the oneiric scene might be giving you clues about your repressed impulses. If the fish are dead in the aquarium, it is a sign of vain hopes and disappointments.

Aqueduct If you dream of a well-preserved or in-use aqueduct, you can expect a prosperous future, full of all sorts of goods. If, however, it is incomplete or damaged, it can be a sign of poverty and a period of difficulties.

Armor If you dream that you are wearing armour it should be interpreted as the way you defend yourself from external influence. You fear getting hurt and therefore, you protect yourself, hiding your feelings. Armor can also symbolize strength and resistance against adversity. This is not always positive because in these cases the dreamer is often too enclosed in her own shell. It is likely that an individual with armour or shield is incapable of spontaneous interaction with people. In dreams, both protections are symbols that demonstrate anxiety. You must ask yourself what is it you want to defend yourself from. If you question your motives a little, you may discover you do not need to be so sheltered. With a little self-confidence and trust you can overcome it. In the case the armour refers to something that you will face in real life, it means that you are brave and well prepared. If you dream of carrying heavy armour it means you are taking life too seriously, without enjoying it. Those who believe in reincarnation interpret it as a vestige of past lives. If historical facts are revealed during the dream, it will be interesting to prove their authenticity. Perhaps, you are remembering facts from your ancestral past . . .

Arms symbolize friendship and your ability to relate to others. To see yourself without arms reveals a serious emotional problem.

Army An army means that you are trying to evade your responsibility to your community. Such images can also represent your employees or friends. Depending on the army’s condition, you will know how much you can rely on them, if necessary. According to gypsy tradition, to see a victorious army predicts victory; defeated, bad news.

Arrival An arrival is an event that marks the start of new situations. Whether the dreamer arrives someplace, or someone or something arrives suddenly, this dream could be caused by a prolonged state of lethargy and monotony. Perhaps, the dreamer desires an unexpected event to change the course of his life.

Arrow Dreaming that you shoot an arrow suggests that you must be precise in your objectives. If you hit the target, it means that you will achieve your goals. Instead, shooting an arrow upward is a sign of great hope and projects, which are likely to be spoiled by excessive ambition. A Freudian psychologist, however, interprets this image as a clear masculine sexual symbol. A medieval oneiric source claims this dream portends travel, entertainment, and celebrations. If you dream that an arrow is shot straight through your body it means you have a secret enemy. A broken arrow augurs disappointment in love or business.

Artist Everyone, without exception, needs to be loved and recognized by others. This dream can represent your most creative and intuitive side. Maybe you need to express yourself from a creative perspective. For those who dream of being artists, this ambition is even more apparent. It may also tell you how to sublimate passions that you are not able to manifest. If you are painting a picture, it may represent the description of your own situation at the time. So, soon you will see things more clearly. Probably, you need to brush up your plans in order to gain recognition. If in the dream you talk about art, you might be promoted at work.

Ascension Rising to a place in dreams indicates that you are capable of overcoming any obstacle that life puts in your path. This type of image reveals ascension to a superior plane. Such a situation permits you to improve your personal relationships. (See ELEVATOR, HILL, and JUMPING)

This dream foretells economic losses.

Ash Once the fire is out, ashes remain. Perhaps, you feel that all the good deeds in your lives have already taken place and there is nothing left. On the other hand, you can be too anchored to the past or overthinking something that is already over. Ashes can represent failure of a relationship or a business. Also, they are often identified with death and dissolution of bodies. Everything that comes into contact with the fire of life is submitted to ashes. For the Hindu tradition, ashes are a symbol of indestructibility. In a dream, they portray the irreducible part of yourself. Ashes predict disadvantages: bad harvests, unsuccessful businesses, and children who cause problems to their parents. According to gypsies, however, this dream means that you will finally stop lamenting opportunities lost a while ago. In many tribal societies ashes are also a symbol of fertility and good fortune. In England and the United States, in fact, it is believed they protect against evil spirits.

Asparagus Its phallic shape makes it an undeniable symbol of the male sexual organ. To see asparagus out of the ground is a promise of prosperity; to cultivate them is synonymous with future happiness; and to eat them predicts domestic joy.

Assault This type of dream signals the need to change your lifestyle or moral beliefs. If you are the victim of an assault, it means that, even though you want to experience a profound change (your existence does not satisfy you), you are not able to carry it out. If this attack produces a positive feeling, you should be alert to proposals or your own intuitions. On the contrary, if the feelings are unpleasant, you must avoid rushing into taking initiative in real life. It may also be the fact that you are the one who assaults someone else. If the action ends successfully, it indicates the time is right to make changes.

Asthma See DROWNING

Athlete Dreaming that you are an athlete means that you should help others without expecting retribution. If the oneiric athlete trips, it is a possible sign for alarm.

Attempt Indicates the intention and decision to get moving. It is almost always a positive dream that signifies you have lost the precaution and fear of the unknown and you are willing to start a new path or begin some type of project. The dreamer has enough self-confidence to take initiative and accept the risks that come with it.

Attic Dreaming of this room is a negative sign because it relates to darkness and fear. Living in an attic, therefore, denotes a bad time in the economic field and lack of support to overcome such a situation. Dreaming that you are in an attic advises you to be careful; the dreamer is in serious danger.

Authority The dreams in which authority appears symbolize the degree of repression of the dreamer. Almost always, they indicate the existence of a conflict. (See STABBING and MURDER)

Autopsy An autopsy is a sincere desire for personal introspection. Such images are an invitation to better know yourself, taking full advantage of all experiences. Whether the autopsy is performed on you or someone else is irrelevant. In any case, the body represents the dreamer.

Autumn A serene season suggesting peace and melancholy. Autumn invites reflection, knowledge, inner maturation. After the splendour of summer, this season inspires some elegant decadence. Gradually, the winter is approaching, or the end of life, which is the same. Autumn given to introspection, allows you to face this inescapable end positively valuing that which you have had, without thinking about what you will soon lack. Consequently, this dream urges you to use knowledge and past experiences to solve the problems of the present. Dreams that refer to this season of falling leaves are often related to the next stage of life before old age or a fear of the arrival of that stage. These dreams usually occur to people of middle age, and although they are often melancholy, rarely are they deeply sad. They symbolize a reconciliation of age as a natural part of the cycle of nature.

Avalanche This type of dream reflects contingencies that may arise along the way. The subject dreams of avalanches when she is afraid of a disaster or failure. Intuitively, you might have discovered a flaw in your planning that needs to be fixed. It is advisable to try to identify the rest of images that appear in the dream to give them a sense within your fears. If the avalanche is made of dirt or rock, it would be best to keep an eye on your finances. Conversely, if it is a snow avalanche it means that the relationship with your partner is at risk of being buried. A veritable storm of passion is on its way. Some traditions say that this dream brings good luck, especially if you end up buried under the snow. It promises health and benefits. In the case it is other people who suffer the avalanche, it indicates a change in the environment.

Avenue The wider the avenue in the dream the more satisfied with life you are. It may also indicate the quick resolution of a conflict. A straight avenue is a symbol of hope; it announces prosperity, birth, and lasting love. But if it is angular and curvy, it announces disappointment and bitterness in some aspect of life.

Awakening This dream may symbolize a rebirth in your life. However, it may also mean that you are about to experience a lucid dream. In this case, your consciousness awakens in the oneiric scene and you can be part of it at will. Lucid dreams can help you increase your creativity or solve your psychological problems. For example, if someone is chasing you, you have the option to turn around and face the fear that haunts you. Native Americans applied this technique centuries ago to promote self-knowledge. Dreaming that you are walking through a beautiful landscape denotes better times after a difficult period. Many people cultivate the ability to wake up in dreams in order to gain information about the future. One method of achieving this is to imagine that you are in a time machine. The dream will come on in the calendar as you indicate, and your mind will receive relevant premonitions.

Axe This is a symbol of power and authority. Dreams in which a axe appears reflect a latent aggressiveness that comes out in primitive acts. Scenes in which the axe is the protagonist manifest sickness and a lack of control of the senses. They can announce an encounter with someone conflictive and even fights that threaten the stability of your familial relationships. An axe that is used to cut firewood can express that you need to divide a problem into small parts to resolve it better. To cut down a tree, however, means that you are getting rid of old things so new ones can emerge. Apart from warning about some danger, this dream has different popular interpretations. If the blade of the axe is shiny, you will receive a pleasing reward. If the opposite is true, you will lose prestige. Equally, an axe foretells that soon you will have news from friends. Finally, for a woman, this dream augurs that she will find the man of her dreams but she will be forced to live in poverty.