The Spiritual Journey: Interpreting Dreams of Flying and Fear

Dreams carry layers of meaning, reflecting our inner thoughts, desires, and fears. One particularly powerful dream experience is flying, which often symbolizes our yearning for freedom and high aspirations. However, when fear accompanies flight in dreams, it can create a conflicting emotional experience worth exploring.

Such dreams can evoke feelings of both exhilaration and anxiety, representing our journey through life with its ups and downs, aspirations and insecurities. In the context of classical dream interpretation, particularly through the lens of Ibni Sirin, the dual sensations of soaring high above landscapes while experiencing fear can symbolize a struggle between our aspirations and the worries that weigh us down. This delicate interplay can provide profound insights into our emotional state and personal growth, making it an essential subject for reflection.

By understanding the nuances of these dreams, we can gain clarity about our life’s path and better navigate our fears.

• Flying often symbolizes freedom and ambition.
• Fear in flying dreams can represent anxieties about personal freedom.
• Understanding personal fears can lead to profound experiences.
• These dreams may indicate a clash between desire for freedom and underlying worries.
• Seek spiritual or practical guidance when interpreting these dreams.

Symbols

• encountering fear
  • Terror:
  • Fear:

    (Dismay; Fright; Terror) In a dream, fear means the opposite. In fact, fear in a dream represents peacefulness and repentance in wakefulness. If one sees himself scared and running away from fear in a dream, it means that he will win the upper hand.

    If one sees himself in a dream waiting to battle with fear, it means that he will join a war. If one sees himself afraid, and if a voice says to him: “Do not be afraid, you will not die, nor will you be able to bear this life,” it means that he may become blind. If one sees himself as a God-fearing person in a dream, it means that his worldly fears will dissipate and he will develop true devotion and constant remembrance of his Lord.

    The person or object causing fear in the dream represents harm and aversion. To feel scared in a dream means happiness in wakefulness. Fear in a dream also could mean evil, corruption or suffering from the consequences of wrongdoing one has committed.

    If one dies of fear in his dream, it means that he does not pay people their rights and particularly if he is afraid of a human being or from his own evildoing.

  • Khawf:

    (arb. Fear. See Five times prayers)

• experiencing fear
  • Terror:
  • Khawf:

    (arb. Fear. See Five times prayers)

  • Fear:

    (Dismay; Fright; Terror) In a dream, fear means the opposite. In fact, fear in a dream represents peacefulness and repentance in wakefulness. If one sees himself scared and running away from fear in a dream, it means that he will win the upper hand.

    If one sees himself in a dream waiting to battle with fear, it means that he will join a war. If one sees himself afraid, and if a voice says to him: “Do not be afraid, you will not die, nor will you be able to bear this life,” it means that he may become blind. If one sees himself as a God-fearing person in a dream, it means that his worldly fears will dissipate and he will develop true devotion and constant remembrance of his Lord.

    The person or object causing fear in the dream represents harm and aversion. To feel scared in a dream means happiness in wakefulness. Fear in a dream also could mean evil, corruption or suffering from the consequences of wrongdoing one has committed.

    If one dies of fear in his dream, it means that he does not pay people their rights and particularly if he is afraid of a human being or from his own evildoing.

• gliding
  • Seizing:

    (Holding; Seizing) Gripping to somethingby the hand in a dream means buying a new property, renewal of one’s control over something, getting married or begetting a son.

  • Slipping:
  • Under garment:

    (Under garment; Underpants) In a dream, a slip represents a free woman. A woman wearing an underwear slip in a dream denotes marriage. If she is wearing a flashy red slip in the dream, it means that she will be accused of wrongdoing.

    If a respectable woman adventures with her slip into the streets in a dream, it means that her misfortune will become the talk of the town.

• flying
  • Flying:

    Flying in a dream means travels. If one sees himself flying lying on his back, then it means comfort. Flying for other than a traveller means joblessness.

    Flying from one roof into another in a dream means changing from a man of dignity into a man who has no moral standards. In a dream, a roof also represents a woman or a wife. In this sense, flying bet ween two roofs could mean having a mistress beside one’s wife.

    If a woman sees herself flying from her house into the house of a man she knows in the dream, it means that she will marry him. Flying from a known abode into a distant and unknown abode in a dream means death. If a prisoner sees himself flying in a dream, it means that he will be released from jail.

    Flying with wings in a dream also means travels, and flying without wings means changes in one’s status or conditions. If a foreigner sees himself flying in a dream, it means that he will return to his homeland, or it could mean that he travels excessively. If one who has pride and exaggerated hopes sees himself flying in a dream, then his dream represents mere hallucination.

    If one sees himself in a dream flying in a race with someone else, and if he wins the race, it means that he will conquer his opponent and rise 172 IBN SEERIN’S above him in station. Flying over a mountain in a dream means power and sovereignty. If one who qualifies for leadership sees himself flying in a dream, it means that he will attain a leadership position.

    If he falls over something in the dream, it means that he will own or control whatever he falls into. If one does not qualify for leadership and sees himself flying in a dream, it represents pitfalls in his religious performances, or it could mean falling sick. If one does attain his intended destination in the dream, then his dream connotes a successful journey.

    If one flies in his dream and disappears beyond sight, it means his death. If one flies from his own house into an unknown house in the dream, the latter house represents his grave. Flying in a dream also represent a sickness that could lead a person near his death before he could recover from it.

    If one flies from a low elevation into a higher one and without wings in his dream, it means fulfillment of his aspirations. If one soars in the air like a pigeon in a dream and sees people below him, whereby he can benefit or harm whomever he wants, it means that he will preside over people and reach a rank of honor and dignity. If one becomes tired during his flight between tow cities or places and finds himself incapable of benefiting or harming anyone, and if he seeks nothing from his flight but is still happy about flying in the dream, it means that he is trying to find money for his personal needs or business.

    If one sees himself flying from one land into another in a dream, it means that he will attain honor, power, comfort and satisfaction. If one sees himself flying hori¬ zontally in the dream, it means that his wife will straighten her act and without much effort on his part. If one sees himself flying vertically with his head up and his feet pointing to the ground in the dream, it means that he will receive benefits.

    The more he rises, the greater are his benefits. If rich people or craftsmen see that dream, it represents a leadership position they could occupy. If a foreigner sees that in a dream, it means that he will return to his mother land, or it could mean that he will never return to his homeland again.

    Flying with wings in a dream means benefits in general. Soaring high in the air and without wings in a dream means fears and hardships. Flying over people’s homes and over the streets in a dream means difficulties and disturbances.

    Flying near a flock of birds in a dream means associating, living or working with unknown people. If an evil person sees that, it means a bad omen, and for a fisherman it means sufferings or death. Flying in the air at a low altitude in a dream means taking a short trip.

    If one sees himself flying at will and ceasing to fly at will in a dream, it means easing of his burdens and expectation of great benefits to come his way. Seeing oneself in a dream flying upside-down means evil happening. If a sick person sees himself flying in the air in a dream, it means that he will die from his illness.

    If one sees himself laying over his bed and flying with it in a dream, it means a severe illness or an ailment that will strike at his legs. Enjoying flying between the sky and the earth in a dream means having exaggerated hopes. Flying in a dream also means seeking a destructive knowl¬ edge, or pursuing an evil idea, or associating with villainous and notorious people, or it could mean being in a hurry, or that one takes lightly a serious project, then fails to accomplish it because of his angry character.

    Flying in a dream also denotes extreme happiness, or it could mean superstition. If one flies from a bad place into a good place such as a farm or a mosque in his dream, it means benefits and growth.

  • Aircraft:

    (Airplane; Coffin; Flying ship; Knowledge. Also see Kite; Ship)

  • Wings:

    (Guild) If one sees himself flying with wings in a dream, it means travel. Wings in a dream also represent one’s children. If one sees his wings feathered, this could represent his prosperity or authority.

    If someone sees himself flying with someone else’s wings in the dream, it means that he will receive his help and support. In that sense, traditional people say: “So and so flew with so and so’s wings.” Having wings and not using them to fly with in a dream means acquiring worldly wealth. A broken wing in a dream represents a severe illness one’s son may attract.

    If one experiences the excruciating pain from his wings being pulled off his shoulders in a dream, it may mean the death of his son. A wing that does not allow one to fly in a dream means a wound or a permanent scar in one’s life that will slow his progress. It also could represent a punishment for one’s sins.

• soaring
  • Climb:

    (Climbing; Rising) To see oneself ascending in the skies in a dream means falling in rank, or it could mean oppressing oneself. If one sees himself ascending in the skies until he reaches the stars, merges with them and if he becomes a star in the dream, it means that he will receive titles and powers. If one sees himself ascending a mountain it means depression, stress and travels.

    However, rising in a dream means elevation of status, and descending means a backslide. If one sees himself walking up a steep road in a dream, it means rising in status, but involving toiling and hardships. If one sees himself climbing a mountain, then the mountain in a dream is interpreted as one’s goal.

    Thus, one’s dream may mean attaining one’s goal as far as he reaches in his climb. In dream interpretation, any ascent of a mountain, a trail, a hill, an elevation or even climbing a roof means attaining one’s goal or satisfying one’s needs. To see oneself climbing flat on his back in a dream then means uncalled for, orunnecessary hardship.

  • Rising:

    (Climbing; Rising) To see oneself ascending in the skies in a dream means falling in rank, or it could mean oppressing oneself. If one sees himself ascending in the skies until he reaches the stars, merges with them and if he becomes a star in the dream, it means that he will receive titles and powers. If one sees himself ascending a mountain it means depression, stress and travels.

    However, rising in a dream means elevation of status, and descending means a backslide. If one sees himself walking up a steep road in a dream, it means rising in status, but involving toiling and hardships. If one sees himself climbing a mountain, then the mountain in a dream is interpreted as one’s goal.

    Thus, one’s dream may mean attaining one’s goal as far as he reaches in his climb. In dream interpretation, any ascent of a mountain, a trail, a hill, an elevation or even climbing a roof means attaining one’s goal or satisfying one’s needs. To see oneself climbing flat on his back in a dream then means uncalled for, orunnecessary hardship.

  • Incline:

    (Incline; Mountain road; Steep incline) If one sees himself climbing a steep incline in a dream, it means toiling to succeed in both his material and spiritual life, or it could mean trying to gather the benefits of both worlds, though with great strain on him . An ascent in a dream also could signify a difficult woman or a stern man who can only be handled with kindness, gentleness and love. An ascent in a dream also represents one’s associate, or a business partner who cannot be trusted with one’s money or life.

    An ascent in a dream also represents the road to salvation or the dangers one may have to cross and the deeds that can save him from hell-fire. An ascent in a dream also could represent adversities, difficulties and dangers. Ascending a steep incline in a dream means danger and descending a steep hill means reaching safety.

    An ascent in a dream also could represent a bridge, an underpass, a wife, a woman, or a scorpion. Walking through a steep incline in a dream also means rising in station because of one’s knowledge, politics, good conduct, fulfillment of one’s duties, his caring for others or wisdom. Falling through a steep hill in a dream means falling in rank, losing one’s prestige, losing one’s money, denying the truth, objecting to one’s religion or walking into darkness.

    Climbing in a dream always means attainment of one’s goals. Climbing flat on one’s back in a dream has negative connotations. Descending from a steep hill, or from a ship, or coming down form a castle or a mountain in a dream also mean that one’s goal will not materialize.

• feeling fear
  • Terror:
  • Fear:

    (Dismay; Fright; Terror) In a dream, fear means the opposite. In fact, fear in a dream represents peacefulness and repentance in wakefulness. If one sees himself scared and running away from fear in a dream, it means that he will win the upper hand.

    If one sees himself in a dream waiting to battle with fear, it means that he will join a war. If one sees himself afraid, and if a voice says to him: “Do not be afraid, you will not die, nor will you be able to bear this life,” it means that he may become blind. If one sees himself as a God-fearing person in a dream, it means that his worldly fears will dissipate and he will develop true devotion and constant remembrance of his Lord.

    The person or object causing fear in the dream represents harm and aversion. To feel scared in a dream means happiness in wakefulness. Fear in a dream also could mean evil, corruption or suffering from the consequences of wrongdoing one has committed.

    If one dies of fear in his dream, it means that he does not pay people their rights and particularly if he is afraid of a human being or from his own evildoing.

  • Khawf:

    (arb. Fear. See Five times prayers)

Practical Insights for Interpreting Your Flying Dreams

• Reflect on Your Current Life Situation

  Start by considering your current life circumstances and emotional state. Are there areas where you feel trapped or stifled? Flying often represents freedom, so if you are experiencing fear in your dreams, it may be indicative of your struggles with personal limitations.

  Journal your feelings upon waking, focusing on the aspects of your life that evoke both excitement and anxiety. This exploration can help you identify the specific fears that are holding you back from pursuing your aspirations.

• Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

  To address fears reflected in your flying dreams, consider incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can help you center your thoughts and reduce anxiety. Commit to a routine that allows you to focus on grounding yourself.

  When you feel grounded and calm, you may find that your flying dreams shift in nature, becoming more serene rather than fearful, signifying genuine freedom.

• Seek Support from Trusted Individuals

  Often, voicing your fears can alleviate them. Discuss your flying dreams with trusted friends or family members who can provide valuable perspectives. Sharing your feelings may reveal unexpected insights or affirmations that help you navigate your fears.

  Additionally, consider consulting a spiritual advisor or dream interpreter well-versed in Ibni Sirin's principles to guide you further in understanding your dreams. Guided conversations can lead to revelations about your journey and empower you to embrace your ambitions.

• Visualize Success and Freedom

  Harness the power of visualization techniques to transform your fear-based perceptions. Before sleep, take time to visualize your dreams of flying in a positive light, free from anxiety. Picture yourself soaring through the skies with joy and confidence, unburdened by worries.

  By rewiring your subconscious through these positive mental images, you may influence your subsequent dreams as well, fostering a sense of empowerment and joy in your nighttime escapades.

• Keep a Dream Journal

  Establishing a dream journal is a powerful method for tracking recurring themes and symbols in your dreams, particularly flying experiences intertwined with fear. Recording your dreams each morning can solidify your reflections and serve as a record of your growth over time. Over the months, patterns may emerge, potentially leading to deeper insights into recurrent fears and aspirations, helping clarify your path forward.

FAQs

• What does it mean to dream of flying with fear?

  Dreams of flying accompanied by fear often represent a juxtaposition between aspiration and anxiety. They can reflect your desire for freedom while simultaneously highlighting insecurities or stressors in your life that hinder your ability to pursue your goals. These dreams remind you to confront your fears as you strive to reach new heights.

• How can I interpret my flying dreams accurately?

  To interpret your flying dreams, consider the emotions experienced during the dream as well as the context. Reflect on your current life situation and identify any fears or constraints holding you back. Seeking advice from knowledgeable individuals or reading traditional interpretations can also add depth to your understanding.

• Are flying dreams considered positive or negative?

  Flying dreams can be both positive and negative, depending on the emotions involved. They typically symbolize freedom and aspirations; however, the presence of fear can indicate internal conflict or anxiety regarding those aspirations. Understanding this duality can lead to personal insights and growth.

• Do flying dreams have any spiritual significance?

  From a spiritual perspective, flying dreams often signify a connection to one's higher self and aspirations. They can represent spiritual growth, enlightenment, and a desire for transcendence. The fear experienced in these dreams may prompt deeper spiritual introspection, guiding the dreamer to address unresolved issues affecting their spiritual journey.

• How can I reduce fear in my flying dreams?

  To reduce fear in your flying dreams, incorporate relaxation and mindfulness practices into your daily life. Focus on grounding techniques, positive visualizations, and journaling about your experiences. Engaging in self-reflection and fostering a supportive environment can also create a more peaceful dreaming experience.

References