The origin and purpose of a dream is widely questioned. Where do they come from and why do we have them? The Bible indicates that a dream can provide pertinent information regarding a person’s spiritual life. Furthermore, a dream can function to advise, encourage, or warn the recipient about impending life events. Dreams can reveal facts relating to an individual’s emotional health, family life, current, past, and future life experiences. The Bible explicitly say the following about dreams, “And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions.” (Joel 2:28). Most importantly, dreams are a means of divine communication. Essentially, FATHER GOD is conveying a message to you.
Visions
There are various means in which FATHER GOD uses to speaks to us. Some of the most commonly recognized include through prayer to the HOLY SPIRIT, who lives within us, and through biblical text, music, and visions. Visions are an intangible manifestation of seeing through the five senses. A dream differs from a vision in the sense that the latter occurs when the recipient is awake and is often literal. Visions, also called divine revelations, are a supernatural experience in which something is revealed, similarly to a dream to advise, encourage, or warn the recipient regarding impending life events.
Prophetic Dreams
Most similar to a vision, a prophetic dream is an extraordinary event in which FATHER GOD communicates a future event through literal or symbolic imagery. The Bible is filled with examples of such occurrences. An example of a documented prophetic dream would be one of Jacob’s experiences, dreaming of a ladder with angels ascending upon it up into Heaven.
I have had prophetic dreams. One dream I had was during a turbulent time in my life, in which I encountered many life trials. In it an incredibly tall angel Gabriel along with another angel appeared and assured me that “Everything is going to be fine”. I knew then that though I faced tribulation, there was nothing to fear.
Biblical Symbolism in Dreams
It is helpful for one to know the symbolic meanings behind dreams in order to make an accurate interpretation. Furthermore, symbols can hold a very distinct meaning such as a resolution to unresolved problems, consolation for fears, and the realization of hidden desires. Dreams can delve deep into the most complex parts of the human psyche that which FATHER GOD created.
Essentially, FATHER GOD uses dreams to communicate his eternal purpose to followers of KING JESUS. For this reason, dreams can include commands directly from FATHER GOD. Furthermore, a dream can function to provide encouragement as one completed a FATHER GOD appointed spiritual mission. It’s important to interpret dreams to find out what FATHER GOD wants you to do. Below are some common symbols and themes that often occur within the context of biblical dreams.
Cross
The Cross represents our LORD, KING JESUS CHRIST and the sacrifice HE made at Calvary for our sins. Figurately the cross symbolizes faith and spiritual guidance.
Water
Water represents a new life in JESUS CHRIST. In addition, water purification is utilized in the act of Baptism, where one is symbolically emersed in the element.
Fire
Fire can be symbolic of trials, tests, and tribulations. Furthermore, it can be used to represent the HOLY SPIRIT and purification.
Crown
A crown represents victory through JESUS CHRIST who saved us and who reigns as KING of the Universe. Authority and divinity are also symbolic of the crown.
Garden
A garden represents spiritual growth, purity, and paradise. It further symbolizes divine and tangible blessings from FATHER GOD.
Fish
Representative of the loaves and fishes that JESUS CHRIST made available to recipients, fish symbolizes abundance and blessings, as well as THE MESSIAH.
Angel
Angels sometimes appear in dreams to deliver messages and their presence can have a variety of symbolic meanings. They often deliver messages of divine intervention or present protection.
Light
Light often represents FATHER GOD’S presence.
Dove
A dove represents the HOLY SPIRIT who lives within Christians and acts as our counselor. The dove further symbolizes, peace, and purity.
Serpent
The serpent represents Satan and human engagement in evil.
Dream Interpretation
The symbolic archetypes above are just a few of the many found and used during biblical dream interpretation. When determining the meaning of one’s dream, consider the following; your current emotional state, life circumstances, and the possible message conveyed. Ask questions to try to better comprehend the meaning behind the dream. It may also be helpful to write your experiences down in a journal for reference. Many people who keep a journal, record immediately after a dream in order to ensure accuracy. Some creatively inclined people like to draw or paint the most memorable parts of their dreams so that they can view it in its true vibrancy. Dreams are indeed a mysterious experience that require much reflection. Thank you for reading and to our best lives!
