DREAM INTERPRETATION
In Islam, dreams hold significant importance and can be interpreted from both scientific and religious perspectives. From a scientific viewpoint, dreams are understood as a natural function of the brain during sleep. They can be influenced by various factors such as stress, emotions, and daily experiences. Psychologists may analyze dreams to gain insights into a person’s subconscious mind and emotional state.
From a religious perspective, particularly in Islam, dreams are believed to carry spiritual meanings and messages. In the Islamic tradition, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) spoke about the significance of dreams and how they can serve as a means of communication between the individual and the Divine. There are numerous references to dreams in the Quran and Hadith (sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad).
Dreams are complex and often symbolic, reflecting our subconscious thoughts, fears, hopes, sometimes guidance and memories. There are generally three types of dreams in Islamic tradition:
Good Dreams (Ru’ya Saaliha)
These are dreams that are seen as positive, beneficial, and may carry messages of guidance, encouragement, or blessings. Good dreams are often seen as a reflection of one’s piety, sincerity, or positive actions.
Bad Dreams (Hulum)
These are dreams that are disturbing, frightening, or unpleasant. They may be caused by various factors such as psychological stress, dietary habits, or spiritual influences. In Islamic tradition, it’s recommended to seek refuge in Allah (SWT) from the harm of bad dreams and to seek protection by reciting specific prayers or verses from the Quran upon waking up from such dreams. If you are sleeping you change the side you are sleeping, turn to left and spit three times and seek refuge from Satan
Mixed Dreams (Mukhtalif al-Ahlaam)
These dreams contain elements of both good and bad. Interpretation of mixed dreams can be complex and may depend on various factors such as the context of the dream, the emotions experienced, and the individual’s circumstances.
Regarding speaking about bad dreams
It’s recommended not to disclose disturbing or negative dreams unless there is a valid reason to do so, such as seeking advice from a knowledgeable person for interpretation or if the dream carries a warning or lesson that may benefit others. However, if one feels distressed by a bad dream, they may seek solace in supplication and remembrance of Allah (SWT), as well as seeking refuge from any negative influences. Islamic teachings emphasize seeking refuge in Allah from their potential harm and refraining from sharing them unnecessarily.
In Islamic teachings, dreams hold significance and are believed to have various meanings, as is mentioned in Chapter Sura Yousuf (AS) in Holy Quran and they can be interpreted in various ways. However, seeing deceased parents or relatives in a dream doesn’t necessarily indicate that the person who had the dream will die. In Islam, bad dreams are seen as a warning or a reminder of potential dangers, sins, or shortcomings. They can also result from factors such as anxiety or negative emotions. However, in Islam, even bad dreams can have positive aspects as they may serve as a wake-up call for self-reflection, repentance, or seeking guidance. Conversely, good dreams are generally interpreted as glad tidings, blessings, or guidance from Allah (God). They can signify positive events, solutions to problems, or reassurance during difficult times. It’s believed that such dreams may be a reflection of one’s faith and piety.
Dream interpretation in Islam often involves seeking knowledge from individuals known as “mu’abbir” or “tabir.” These are people who possess knowledge of Islamic teachings and are skilled in interpreting dreams according to Quranic principles and Prophetic traditions. They consider various factors such as the content of the dream, the emotions felt during the dream, taqwa status and the individual’s personal circumstances.
Seeing a deceased in dream
A common custom in our society is that if anyone sees a deceased relative in dream they call his/her siblings that they had a fearful dream, so make charity as seeing dead person in dream under an erroneous belief is taken as bad omen which actually has no place in Islamic shariah. In Islamic tradition, seeing a deceased person in a dream is not inherently considered a bad omen. Instead, it can have various interpretations depending on the context of the dream and the emotions associated with it.
Dreams about deceased loved ones are commonly interpreted as a reminder of the transient nature of life and the importance of remembering and praying for the deceased. They can also serve as a means of spiritual connection or guidance from Allah (SWT). The practice of making charity or performing good deeds upon having such a dream is not a requirement in Islamic Shariah. However, it is encouraged to engage in acts of charity and remember the deceased in one’s prayers regardless of the occurrence of specific dreams.
Why do I have dreams about dead relatives?
According to a 2019 review, we dream because it can help us process and understand emotions. Research shows that sometimes dreams about someone dying signify a lasting connection with a loved one who passed away often reflects your grief after losing a loved one.
Can dreams predict the future?
It’s no surprise you might have a few vivid dreams or unsettling dreams in your life. You may even be among the 17.8% to 38% of people who have experienced at least one precognitive or premonition dream. In Islamic teachings, dreams are considered to be significant (Sura Yusuf- Quran) and can sometimes offer insights or guidance. However, dreams are not considered to be a reliable or direct means of predicting the future. Rather, they are viewed as a reflection of one’s subconscious mind, influenced by various factors such as daily experiences, emotions, and spiritual state. Islam acknowledges that certain individuals, such as prophets or righteous people, may receive true visions or dreams from Allah (God) that contain guidance or predictions about future events. However, such instances are rare and are considered special occurrences rather than the norm.
If you’re tasked with correcting a habit related to dream interpretation among the community, it’s essential to approach the situation with sensitivity and understanding. Start by educating them about the Islamic perspective on dream interpretation. Share relevant Quranic verses and Hadiths that emphasize the importance of seeking knowledge and avoiding superstition. Clarify any misconceptions they may have about dream interpretation. Explain that while dreams can hold significance in Islam, they should not be relied upon as the sole basis for decision-making or as indicators of good or bad omens. Encourage them to approach dream interpretation with critical thinking considering the context of the dream, personal emotions, and relevant life circumstances before drawing conclusions. Encourage them to strengthen their faith and connection to Allah (SWT) through regular acts of worship and reflection placing trust in Allah (God) seeking guidance through prayer and supplication rather than relying solely on dreams. Encourage them to focus on positive interpretations of dreams and to view them as opportunities for self-reflection, spiritual growth, and drawing closer to Allah. Discourage dwelling on negative interpretations or attributing undue significance to dreams.
By approaching the situation with empathy, education, and support, you can help them develop a more balanced and informed perspective on dream interpretation in line with Islamic teachings. The general Islamic guideline regarding dreams is to approach them with caution and seek interpretation or understanding, if necessary, but not to rely solely on them for making important decisions or predictions about the future. Instead, Muslims are encouraged to place their trust in Allah, seek guidance through prayer and supplication, and make decisions based on reason, knowledge, and ethical principles. It’s encouraged to seek interpretation from knowledgeable individuals, such as scholars or those well-versed in Islamic teachings, to understand the meaning of the dream. Interpretations can vary depending on cultural and personal contexts. Seek solace in prayer and turn to Allah (SWT) for understanding guidance, clarity and peace of mind regarding the dream.
This article is intended for general awareness, and in no way a replacement for consulting authentic scholars, ulemma, or shariah resources.
(Author is a Consultant Surgeon, has a Diploma in Islamic studies from Islamic University. His work has been published in local and international Journals and can be reached at [email protected])
