Exploring Dreams of Flying: The Meaning Behind Soaring High Without Landing

Dreams often serve as a powerful reflection of our subconscious mind, revealing desires, fears, and aspirations. Among the myriad of dreams one can have, the experience of flying stands out, embodying a profound sense of freedom and exhilaration. A dream of flying that includes the peculiar notion of not landing can stir an array of emotions, from joyful liberation to unsettling anxiety.

Such dreams may evoke questions about one’s life circumstances, reflecting the search for direction and purpose. Historically interpreted through various cultural lenses, flying dreams have been linked to both spiritual journeys and personal ambitions. In classical interpretations, particularly drawing from Ibni Sirin’s work, flying can symbolize one's rise above earthly concerns yet may indicate a struggle to find groundedness in reality.

Understanding the nuances of these dreams not only enriches the dreamer’s self-awareness but also opens pathways for deeper introspection and growth.

• Dreams of flying often symbolize freedom and aspirations.
• Not landing can indicate feelings of being ungrounded or unsure.
• The sensation of flying can reflect one's personal ambitions or spiritual journeys.
• It's important to analyze your current life situation for a more focused interpretation.
• Seek guidance from knowledgeable persons for deeper understanding.

Symbols

• 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.

• not landing
  • Prescribe:

    (Preach; Prescribe) Setting out to command what is good and to forbid what is evil in a dream means benefiting others and comforting them. If a sick person sees himself standing up to defend proper moral values, to explain what is true and to refute what is false in a dream, it means that he will enjoy a quick recovery from his illness. If one sees someone’s infant setting out to walk in a dream, it means that it will take him a longer time to walk.

  • Standing up for the truth:

    (Preach; Prescribe) Setting out to command what is good and to forbid what is evil in a dream means benefiting others and comforting them. If a sick person sees himself standing up to defend proper moral values, to explain what is true and to refute what is false in a dream, it means that he will enjoy a quick recovery from his illness. If one sees someone’s infant setting out to walk in a dream, it means that it will take him a longer time to walk.

  • Bounce:

    (Bounce; Hop; Leap) To see oneself hopping on one leg in a dream means moving from an old place into a new one. If one takes a broad leap with one jump in his dream it means travels. Hopping on one leg because of an illness or an impairment in a dream means loss of half of one’s money or property and finding it difficult to sustain one’s needs with the balance.

    Playing football or hopping with a ball, or jumping while performing acrobatic exercises, or gymnastic feats in a dream means profits or benefits for someone who is used to play such games, or participates in such training. Otherwise, it could mean facing dangerous or severe adversity. In a dream, jumping from place to place also means false news, fabricated accusations, changing moods with one’s friends, or finding oneself bored with them.

    If one jumps over a wall in a dream, it means that he will change from a believer into a disbeliever or follow the advice of a disbeliever. Jumu'a: (arb. See Five times prayers)

• 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.

• unsuccessful landing
  • Rugged terrain:

    (Rugged terrain) Walking a rugged terrain, then suddenly seeing oneself walking through plains in a dream means overcoming one’s difficulties. Walking through roadless terrain in a dream also means stress, adversities, toiling, stagnation of one’s business, or it could mean looking into the ample opportunities of one’s life. A roadless terrain in a dream also means fear of wrongdoing, straying from the path of righteousness, or walking the avenues of innovation.

    A roadless terrain in a dream also means dullness or stupidity, while a plain in a dream signifies intelligence and keenness.

  • Haircut:

    A short haircut in a dream means failure to properly fulfill one’s duties.

  • Incomplete Job:

    (Unfinished business) An incomplete job in a dream signifies joblessness, inactivity, indolence, or it could mean an unattainable desire for leadership. An incomplete job in a dream also means despair. DICTIONARY OF DREAMS 223

• failure to land
  • Prescribe:

    (Preach; Prescribe) Setting out to command what is good and to forbid what is evil in a dream means benefiting others and comforting them. If a sick person sees himself standing up to defend proper moral values, to explain what is true and to refute what is false in a dream, it means that he will enjoy a quick recovery from his illness. If one sees someone’s infant setting out to walk in a dream, it means that it will take him a longer time to walk.

  • Standing up for the truth:

    (Preach; Prescribe) Setting out to command what is good and to forbid what is evil in a dream means benefiting others and comforting them. If a sick person sees himself standing up to defend proper moral values, to explain what is true and to refute what is false in a dream, it means that he will enjoy a quick recovery from his illness. If one sees someone’s infant setting out to walk in a dream, it means that it will take him a longer time to walk.

  • Dry land:

    (Terra firma) Seeing a dry land in a dream means reaching safety.

Grounding Yourself: Practical Steps for a Meaningful Interpretation

• Reflect on Your Life Situation

  Take a moment to consider your current circumstances. Is there something in your life you feel soaring above? Perhaps a challenge or aspiration that feels overwhelming?

  Identifying these elements can help you understand the roots of your dream. Write down your thoughts in a journal. Reflecting on them may unveil connections to your aspirations or anxieties.

  This process of introspection not only clarifies your emotions but can also act as a guiding light, leading you closer to finding balance in life.

• Seek Spiritual Guidance

  Engage with your spiritual practice, whether through prayer, meditation, or discussion with wise individuals. Often, these significant moments in our dreams resonate on a spiritual level. Connecting with your faith may bring clarity and peace of mind.

  Surround yourself with a community that encourages spiritual growth and shares wisdom. This nurturing environment can provide support as you navigate your inner quest, helping you to explore the meanings layered within your dreams.

• Embrace Creative Expression

  Consider channeling the emotions from your dream into a creative outlet—art, music, or writing. This can provide a therapeutic release and allow for deeper exploration of your feelings about flying. Capture the essences of your dream and translate them into tangible forms.

  Creative expression enables your subconscious mind to communicate more clearly, unlocking insights that words alone may not convey. As you create, pay attention to the themes and imagery that recur; these may guide you toward understanding the nuances of your dream.

• Engage in Grounding Techniques

  If your dream leaves you feeling unsettled, practicing grounding techniques can be beneficial. This may include mindful breathing exercises, spending time in nature, or engaging in physical activities. Grounding helps align your mental and emotional states with your physical being, providing a sense of stability.

  When you feel disconnected from reality, these techniques can reassure you and help reaffirm your roots. Explore the simple joy in everyday moments, appreciating the tangible aspects of life once again.

• Consult with Dream Interpreters

  Consider reaching out to dream interpreters or therapists knowledgeable in dream analysis, especially those who draw from classical Islamic interpretations. A shared discussion can empower you to delve deeper into the layered meanings of your dreams about flying. They can guide you in understanding how these dreams tie into your personal narrative, assisting in recognition of any underlying patterns or issues.

  Engaging with a professional offers a richer perspective, allowing more profound insights into your psyche and spiritual journey.

FAQs

• What does it mean to dream of flying without landing?

  Dreaming of flying without landing can indicate a sense of unattainable freedom or the desire to escape life's burdens. It may suggest that you have aspirations that feel overwhelming or a situation in life where you feel ungrounded, longing for stability. The dream invites you to reflect on your real-life challenges and aspirations and how you can bring balance to your journey.

• Are flying dreams common, and what do they signify?

  Yes, flying dreams are a common phenomenon and generally signify freedom, liberation, and the pursuit of personal goals. They can reflect a state of empowerment, where the dreamer feels in control and capable of overcoming obstacles. Each dream, however, is unique to the individual's experiences and emotions, contributing to its specific interpretation.

• How can I interpret my flying dream more accurately?

  To interpret your flying dream more accurately, consider the emotions you experienced during the dream and how they relate to your waking life. Reflect on current circumstances, aspirations, or burdens that may resonate with the symbolism of flight. Journaling about your feelings and experiences is an effective way to uncover deeper meanings and context around your dreams.

• What do repeated flying dreams signify?

  Repeated flying dreams often highlight persistent desires or unresolved issues in your waking life. They may indicate a significant longing for freedom or escape from current challenges. Such dreams can encourage you to recognize and address these desires, prompting personal growth and exploration.

• Is there a connection between flying dreams and spiritual journeys?

  Indeed, flying dreams are often associated with spiritual journeys and personal transformations. They can symbolize a quest for spiritual enlightenment, inner peace, and the pursuit of greater understanding. Viewing your dreams through a spiritual lens can provide insights into your life path and personal development, guiding you on your quest for fulfillment.

References