Post by edith on Aug 18, 2017 15:56:58 GMT 2
This section will present numerous objects and symbols found in the Scriptures that are also part of a spiritual dream.
Please understand that the general meaning may not be the only meaning but is the most common possible meaning.Arrows - First Reference: Numbers 24:8—Moses wrote that God defeated His enemies by using arrows.
Possible Meaning: We no longer use a bow and arrows, but arrows were used in battle to defeat the enemy. Just as a sword can represent the Word, the individual arrows
being shot can be a cryptic reference to individual scriptures that are quoted and shot toward the enemy. They become the arrows of God in the hands of a mighty man. If someone is shooting an arrow at you to harm you, it may be destructive words that are being said (Ps. 64:3–4; Jer. 9:8). If the arrow pierces your body, especially in your
heart, it can represent words that are spoken to bring pain to your heart and spirit.
Bird(s) - First Reference: Genesis 15:10—Abraham sacrifices birds without dividing them on the altar.
Possible Meanings: In the Bible, birds are not always viewed positively. When the birds ate the food from the basket on the head of the baker, Joseph said the head of the man would be removed by Pharaoh and the birds would eat his flesh (Gen. 40:17–22). In the New Testament parable of the sower and the seed, the birds come to eat the seed as soon as it is planted in the heart of a person. Christ said these “fowls” (birds) were evil spirits (Mark 4:1–20). Birds eating seed can represent something that is attempting to steal the Word from your heart. Birds are also used as a metaphor for evil spirits (Rev. 18:2).
In a dream, if a bird is picking at your flesh, it can mean that you will encounter difficulty with your flesh, either through temptation or through a physical ailment. If the bird is pecking your home, it can refer to something or someone working their way into your home that will become a problem for you later.
Boats/Ships
First Reference: Genesis 49:13—Jacob predicted Zebulun would be a haven for ships.
Possible Meaning: We think of traveling when we think of a ship or a boat. In the New Testament, many of the disciples were fishermen who owned their own boats (Matt. 4:21–22; Luke 5:3–7). Because fish were caught in nets and boats transported the catch, boats can Biblical Symbolism in Dreams allude to the ministry vessel used to bring in the souls. The boat is the vehicle used to minister.
Bread
First Reference: Genesis 3:19—God said man would eat his bread by the sweat of his face.
Possible Meaning: Bread is a basic staple that sustains life, especially among empires of antiquity. In the New Testament, Christ taught that we should pray for our “daily bread” (Matt. 6:11). Bread can allude to the Word of God (Matt. 4:4). Christ is called the “bread of life” (John 6:35). While bread can be literal food or refer to the food
supply, in a spiritual dream, bread is the gospel that feeds the multitudes and satisfies the soul of a person.
Bull
First Reference: Genesis 32:15—Jacob’s list of animals consisted of ten bulls.
Possible Meanings: A bull can be an aggressive beast. In Psalm 22:12, the writer said the “strong bulls of Bashan have encircled me.” A bull can be a type of an aggressive spirit or a situation that will cause you agitation. I once dreamed of many bulls running during a crisis, and it alluded to the stock market whose emblem outside of Wall Street
is a brass bull.
Cattle
First Reference: Genesis 1:24—Cattle are listed by name on the fifth day of Creation.
Possible Meanings: In the Bible, cattle were significant with personal prosperity, as they were the chief desired beast of the field. They are mentioned 151 times in the King James Version of the Old Testament. They were used for milk and meat. Joseph saw seven strong, then seven weak cattle, indicating a coming famine. Cattle can allude to
your personal or business prosperity.
Chains
First Reference: Genesis 41:42—Pharaoh put a gold chain around Joseph’s neck.
Possible Meanings: In the Old Testament, a chain has two meanings: the first is where a gold chain is placed around the neck of a leader (Dan. 5:7);
the second is where chains are placed upon someone to bind him (Lam. 3:7; Ezek. 16:11).
The man of Gadara was bound with chains (Mark 5:3). Peter was bound in prison in chains (Acts 12:6–7), and fallen angels are bound in chains (2 Pet. 2:4).
In a dream, someone in chains can refer to a bondage of some sort that is binding the individual. If you are in chains, it can illustrate an attempt of the adversary or individuals to place you in some type of spiritual bondage, captivating or binding you. If the chains are on your feet, they mean a hindrance in carrying the gospel. On your hands, they are stopping the work you are doing. If they are over your mouth, they are attempting to silence you.
Corn
First Reference: Genesis 27:28 (kjv)—Isaac blesses Jacob, telling him he will have plenty of corn and wine.
Possible Meanings: The King James translation of the Bible (1611) uses the word “corn,” and in the West we think of tall stalks of corn in Biblical Symbolism in Dreams
a cornfield. The Hebrew word is dagan, and refers to grain. In the West, however, corn is a main grain that is grown nationally for food, fuel, and other purposes.
In the 9/11 vision in 1996, the five grayish tornadoes took out five rows of corn. In this instance, it was a prediction that the economy would be impacted by these storms, as corn being grown, sold, and eaten is a part of our national and global economy. Thus, a field of corn is still a harvest, but it can allude to the economic impact of a
certain event upon the area seen in the dream or vision.
Desert
First Reference: Exodus 3:1 (kjv)—Moses is on “the backside of the desert” watching sheep.
Possible Meaning: Israel wandered through the wilderness/desert for forty years because of unbelief (Deut. 2:7), and Christ was tempted of the devil in the wilderness for forty days (Matt. 4:1–2). Evil spirits are said to walk “through dry places” (Luke 11:24). A dry desert can refer to a time of trial or temptation that will be encountered. It can
also mean isolation and a period of loneliness and standing alone in your faith.
Dog
First Reference: Exodus 11:7—God said not even a dog would move against the children of Israel.
Possible Meanings: In America, dogs are pets. David rebuked Goliath for considering David a “dog” (1 Sam. 17:43). Among Jews in Christ’s day, Gentiles were considered “dogs” (Matt. 15:26). Paul wrote, “Beware of dogs” (Phil. 3:2), which were evil-minded people. In ancient times, dogs were mostly without masters, wandered around,
and were considered unclean. In a dream, a filthy dog is an unclean person, and a vicious dog is a violent person.
Door
First Reference: Genesis 4:7—God told Cain that “sin lies at the door.”
Possible Meanings: If the door is locked, it indicates a closed opportunity or a hindrance to your progress. An opened door is an open opportunity or the opening you should travel (Rev. 3:8; 4:1). In my dreams of churches, sometimes there are no doors but only openings like a doorway. This indicates that Christ Himself is the door to the
church (John 10:9).
Earthquake
First Reference: 1 Kings 19:11—Elijah experienced an earthquake that shook the mountain.
Possible Meaning: A dream of an earthquake can be very literal, as the first simple interpretation. An earthquake is a shaking that
causes disruption and damage, depending upon the magnitude of the quake. In a spiritual dream, an earthquake can refer to a sudden and unexpected shaking that will occur. If you are in a church, it may not be the physical building but the body of believers who will experience a shaking. Earthquakes divide land, and a severe spiritual quake could mean a division of some sort is in the future.
A Field
First Reference: Genesis 2:5—God speaks of the herbs and plants in the field.
Possible Meanings: Ancient Israel was built upon agriculture and planting cycles. The fields were used for barley and wheat (Deut 8:7–10). In the New Testament parables, the field is the world and the harvest is the souls of men who are represented by the wheat and the tares (Matt. 13:38). In several dreams and visions in the past, I have
seen large fields, some with grain and some without. In these cases, it represented the entire United States as a whole. In one instance there were piles of grain stacked in the field with a Bible on top. However, grain was still standing in the corners. This, of course, was the gleaning of the fields, which occurs at the very end of the harvest
cycle (Lev. 23:22).
Fire
First Reference: Genesis 19:24—God rained down fire on Sodom and Gomorrah.
Possible Meaning: Fire is referred to 549 times in the kjv translation of the Bible. In many instances it is used to describe a judgment (Gen. 19:24), fire for a sacrifice (Gen. 22:6), or refers to God as when He manifested in the form of fire (Exod. 13:21–22). Isaiah’s lips were cleaned by coals of fire from the altar (Isa. 6:5–7). Uncontrolled conversation (the tongue) is compared to a fire (James 3:5–6). Certain types of trials and temptations are called “fiery trials” (1 Pet. 4:12).
A fire can refer to a trial, negative words being spoken, a purging of someone, or some situation that is going to occur.
Fishing
First Reference: John 21:3—The disciples were fishing after the resurrection of Jesus.
Possible Meanings: Fish are mentioned in both Testaments. Ezekiel speaks of spreading nets to catch many fish (Ezek. 47:10). Several of Christ’s disciples were fishermen and lived in fishing communities (Luke 5:1–7). Christ said He would make them “fishers of men” (Mark 1:17). In a dream, fishing is usually an indication of ministry and reaching souls. If the lake is small, it is a smaller ministry; if large, a large church or ministry is indicated. A fishing pole symbolizes a local church ministry, but a net indicates a global impact.
Flowers
First Reference: Exodus 25:31—Flowers are mentioned when describing the gold menorah and the beaten gold flower design on top.
Possible Meanings: Flowers appear once the winter is past and the spring arrives (Song of Sol. 2:11–12). Flowers indicate a fresh beginning, a passing of the old, and initiation of the new with a season of refreshing and rest. Flowers that have not bloomed indicate the early or infant stages of the new beginning.
Foxes
First References: Judges 15:4—Samson caught three hundred foxes, using them to set the Philistines’ fields on fire.
Possible Meaning: Foxes are small animals known to be crafty and subtle. They sneak in, do their damage, and then get out before being detected. Song of Solomon speaks of the “little foxes that spoil the vines” (Song of Sol. 2:15). A fox can represent a person who is working behind your back, unnoticed by you, but slowly hindering
what you are doing by what they are doing. By “spoiling the vines,” the spiritual growth or flow of the Holy Spirit is being disrupted and the fruit that should come forth will not manifest.
Goat
First Reference: Genesis 15:9—God required Abraham to offer a she goat as an offering.
Possible Meanings: Goats were used twice to deceive. First, when Jacob placed goat’s hair on his arms, posing as Esau to deceive his father (Gen. 27:16), and second, when Joseph’s coat was dipped in goat’s blood and presented as a sign that he was slain by an animal (Gen. 37:31). A goat is a negative image in the New Testament and can represent someone who is in the flock of sheep but is not real and can be deceptive by nature. The sheep and goats will be separated at the judgment (Matt. 25:33).
Jewelry or Gemstones
First Reference: Genesis 24:53—Rebekah was given jewelry of silver and gold from Abraham’s servant.
Possible Meanings: Jewelry or gemstones were handed over from the Egyptians to the departing Hebrews, who used the gold, silver, and jewelry for the building of the tabernacle in the wilderness (Exod. 11:2; 12:35; 35:22).
At the believer’s judgment, good works will be rewarded with “gold, silver, and precious stones” (1 Cor. 3:12).
To dream or see precious stones or precious metals is a good sign that there is coming a great blessing in some form, including but not limited to financial blessing or rewards for your faithfulness. This is what most believe will be a part of the reward.
Lamb
First Reference: Genesis 22:7–8—Abraham predicted God would provide a lamb for the offering.
Possible Meanings: Throughout the Bible, a lamb symbolizes the ultimate sacrifice, Jesus Christ (John 1:29). Jesus, the Great Shepherd, told Peter to “feed My lambs” (John 21:15). Thus, lambs in a spiritual dream indicate a flock of believers or the church.
Lamp
First Reference: Genesis 15:17—God passed between Abraham’s sacrifice with a burning lamp.
Possible Meaning: A lamp provides light in darkness. The commandments and the Word of God are compared to a lamp (Ps. 119:105;Prov. 6:23). In the parable of the ten virgins, all had lamps, but five virgins lacked the additional oil and had no light when the call came (Matt. 25:1–8).
A lamp burning is a sign that the light of the Word is present. A lamp gone out can allude to the light or truth not being presented or
received.
Left Hand
First Reference: Genesis 13:9—Abraham tells Lot to chose between the left and right side of the land before them.
Possible Meaning: In Job 23:9, Job recalls God’s blessing and his present trials and implies that although he cannot see God, when he is on God’s left, God is at work with His left hand. Some rabbis teach that God created light with His left hand and darkness with His right.
The left hand refers to a time of trial or seasons where it may appear that God is not working for us.
Lightning
First Reference: 2 Samuel 22:15—Speaks of God’s power, which includes sending lightning to discomfort His enemies.
Possible Meaning: The meaning of lightning depends on the setting and circumstances in a dream. When lightning strikes in the natural, it can cause fires and destruction, can shut down power, and so forth. In a spiritual dream, if lightning is striking on a clear day, it can indicate a coming storm that you do not see at the time. If striking during a storm, it indicates the violent or very troubling events that will unfold during the time of the spiritual storm.
Limping/Injury
First Reference: Genesis 32:25—The angel touched Jacob and his hip socket was out of joint permanently.
Possible Meaning: In his earlier days, Jacob was on the run, but with a limp he was slowed down, and it caused him to depend more upon God than upon himself. When experiencing a limp, it means something that will affect your spiritual walk.
The people of Israel were warned that if they followed the Canaanite idols, these false gods would become “scourges on your sides and thorns in your eyes” (Josh. 23:13). If a person has a moral failure, that person receives a form of a limp.
Locusts
First Reference: Exodus 10:14—God sent a plague of locusts to the Egyptians.
Possible Meanings: Locusts devour anything that is green and growing. A swarm can wipe out plants and the leaves of trees (Exod. 10). A locust is an insect that if not destroyed can slowly destroy entire crops (Joel 1:4). Locusts are small, but when joined as a swarm, they are a great agitation.
In a spiritual dream, a locust is a small creature and can be the imagery of small things combining together to agitate and create many hindrances that you need to battle. You need to protect the spiritual growth in your life and guard against letting little things agitate and become big destroyers.
Meat
First Reference: Genesis 27:4—Isaac asked Esau to prepare his favorite “meat” (kjv).
Possible Meanings: In the kjv, meat is first used in Genesis 1:29: “Every tree . . .shall be for meat.” This word in Hebrew is oklah and means food. The word meat in Genesis 27:4 refers to actual animal meat, which is the main meaning throughout much of the Bible. In the New Testament, the two levels of understanding and receiving the
Word of God are “milk and meat” (Heb. 5:12–13, kjv). Milk is the simplicity of the Word received by immature or young believers, whereas meat is the stronger doctrine of the Scriptures.
Dreaming of meat in a spiritual dream can allude to the deeper teaching or instruction from the Word of God or to more mature believers.
Mountain(s)
First Reference: Genesis 7:20—The flood waters prevailed above the mountains during Noah’s flood.
Possible Meanings: Mountains have numerous applications. Sitting or living on a mountain can allude to a great victory or accomplishment, as the ark “rested” on the mountains of Ararat (Gen. 8:4). Being at Biblical Symbolism in Dreams the bottom of a mountain and attempting to climb can allude to a situation that will take time and effort to deal with. Mountains can be difficulties that need to be removed by faith (Matt. 17:20). The seven mountains in prophecy are seven major kingdoms of prophecy (Rev. 17).
Oil
First Reference: Genesis 28:18—Jacob poured oil on top of a rock to mark the spot of visitation by the angel of the Lord.
Possible Meanings: Throughout the Bible, oil became the substance used to mark a sacred spot or to anoint sacred objects, including kings, prophets, and priests (Exod. 28:41; 1 Sam. 16:12; Zech. 4:14). James instructed the elders to pray over the sick, “anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord” for their healing (James 5:14).
Oil is a very positive symbol in a spiritual dream and is linked to ministry, the anointing of the Spirit, or the calling of God for His work and service.
Prostitute
First Reference: Genesis 34:31—Simeon and Levi are angry that their sister was treated like a harlot.
Possible Meaning: In the Old Testament, a harlot is a symbol of religious unfaithfulness and spiritual adultery. In Revelation 17, a harlot is riding on the beast representing the final kingdom. To dream of a harlot indicates seduction from the truth or turning from righteousness. The seduction can come through a person or through a spirit
that will rise and work against your mind and your beliefs.
Rain
First Reference: Genesis 2:5—In the Garden of Eden, the Lord had not yet caused it to rain on the earth.
Possible Meaning: With the exception of the flood of Noah (Gen. 7–8), rain by itself (without flooding or lightning) is a good indication of the blessing of the Lord in your life, ministry, or church. The terms “early and latter rain” refer to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Joel 2:23; James 5:7). A businessman once dreamed of supporting our
ministry and of gold raindrops falling upon him. As he did begin to support our ministry, his business began to flourish and prosper.
Rain also brings growth and fruit to plants and trees.
Right Hand
First Reference: Genesis 13:9—Abraham told Lot to choose the land between the right and left hand.
Possible Meaning: The Genesis 13 reference deals with deciding between two choices. Later in the ancient culture, the right hand represented authority or power. The mother of James and John wanted Christ to seat her sons on His right hand (Matt. 20:21). Christ is in heaven seated at the “right hand of God” (Acts 7:55–56). Christ has seven stars in his right hand (Rev. 1:20), and the seven-sealed book is in the right hand of God (Rev. 5:1, 7).
The name Benjamin means “son of my right hand,” as the right hand is symbolic of having favor, receiving authority, and position.
River
First Reference: Genesis 2:10—In the Garden of Eden, four rivers flowed from one source to water the garden.
Possible Meanings: One of the famous biblical rivers is the Jordan in Israel, mentioned 182 times in the Old Testament in the King James Version. It serves as a border between two nations: Israel on the west and Jordan on the east. When the Jordan was crossed, it represented a new beginning, as Joshua crossed with Israel (Josh. 3–5).
Elijah crossed the Jordan and was translated (2 Kings 2:6–13), and Christ was baptized in the Jordan (Matt. 3:13). Crossing the Jordan also alluded to a picture of death and resurrection.
If a river is flooding in a destructive manner, it can indicate a literal flood or a flood of difficulties. If it is dark water, it is a trial, but clear flowing water in a river can indicate a coming transition that will be smooth.
Rock(s)
First Reference: Exodus 17:6—Moses stood upon the rock in Horeb to bring forth water from the rock.
Possible Meanings: Scripture teaches that God is our rock (Deut. 32:4) and that the rock that brought forth water in the wilderness was Christ (1 Cor. 10:4). Stumbling on a large rock can represent a spiritual offense either in the Word or an offense caused by believing in Christ (1 Pet. 2:8). A rock foundation means a strong spiritual foundation
in the Word of God.
Sand
First Reference: Genesis 22:17—God promised Abraham that his seed would be as the sand upon the seashore.
Possible Meaning: The stars are heavenly, but sand is earthly. The “spiritual seed” of Abraham is the church, whose promises are heavenly. The earthly seed are the natural Hebrew people, as their promises from God are earthly (the land of Israel, Jerusalem, and so forth). Stars can fall from heaven (which is what occurred with Lucifer, Isaiah 14:12–15). Sand can also be shaken by wind and moved by water. Christ taught that any foundation built upon the sand will eventually collapse (Matt. 7:26–27).
To dream of sand presents several possible meanings. Walking in sand is to walk into, or through, a possible unstable situation. To be buried in sand is earthly, indicating carnal surroundings that are attempting to choke you spiritually. To build on sand indicates one who “hears these sayings of Mine [Jesus], and does not do them” (Matt. 7:26).
The Sea
First Reference: Genesis 1:26—Man was given dominion over the fish of the sea.
Possible Meanings: In prophetic application, the sea can allude to nations of the earth (Isa. 17:12). The beast of Revelation 13:1 rises up from the sea, or from the nations around the Mediterranean, called the Great Sea in Daniel (Dan. 7:1–4). When Daniel saw the winds “stirring up the Great Sea,” it was indicating conflict among the nations (v. 2).
Serpent
First Reference: Genesis 3:1—The serpent in the garden tempts Eve to eat from the forbidden fruit.
Possible Meanings: Satan used the serpent in the garden, and thus throughout the Scripture a serpent is the imagery of Satan or the powers of darkness. In Revelation, Satan is called “that serpent of old, called the Devil” (Rev. 12:9; 20:2). A spiritual dream involving Biblical Symbolism in Dreams serpents is never a good omen and alludes to an attack or a very difficult time. If the serpent bites you, it means the problem will have an effect upon you emotionally, physically, or spiritually.
Smoke
First Reference: Genesis 19:28—Smoke “like the smoke of a furnace” want up when the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were burning.
Possible Meanings: Smoke is the result of a fire. Smoke is never a positive imagery because it represents the remains of something that has burned. David spoke of being “like a wineskin in smoke” (Ps. 119:83), referring to a wineskin hanging in a tent near a fire that the smoke dries out.
Smoke can create discomfort and block what you are attempting to see. Where there is smoke there is a fire, and this can refer to a situation that creates stress and confusion.
Stars
First Reference: Genesis 1:16—God made the lesser light such as the moon and stars.
Possible Meanings: Stars are imagery of lights that shine in darkness. They also symbolize eternal promises such as when God said that Abraham’s seed would be as the stars of heaven (which cannot be numbered, Gen. 15:5). Seeing stars often represents the promises of God, especially provision during dark or difficult times.
Storms
First Reference: Job 21:18—The writer of Job speaks of how a storm carries away the chaff with the wind.
Possible Meaning: Scripture speaks of escaping the storm (Ps. 55:8), of God being a covering, or shelter, in the storm (Isa. 4:6), and of God performing His will through a storm (Nahum 1:3). In the Gospels, storms would arise on Galilee; one nearly capsized the boat of the disciples (Mark 4:37; Luke 8:23).
A spiritual storm that God allows can help a person search his or her life and remove the excessive chaff from the life of a believer.
A storm created by your circumstances will cause you to search your life to determine your spiritual level of faith. A storm created by demonic powers is intended to capsize your faith, as when Satan desired to sift Peter as wheat to destroy his faith (Luke 22:31–32).
A storm in a dream indicates conflict, a time of difficulty, or a challenge that is come into your life, family, or church. If it damages trees, it can allude to individuals getting hurt because of the situation.
Swine
First Reference: Leviticus 11:7—God classifies the swine as an unclean animal.
Possible Meaning: In the New Testament, the evil spirits in the man of Gadara went into the swine (Matt. 8:32). Christ instructed His followers not to “cast your pearls before swine” (Matt. 7:6). In 2 Peter 2:22, a backslider is like a dog returning to its vomit and a swine that is washed returning to the mud.
In a dream, a swine is a very unclean person or situation and can allude to a backslider who once knew Christ but has returned to his or her life of sin.
Sword
First Reference: Genesis 3:24—The cherubim with flaming swords were guarding the tree of life in Eden.
Possible Meaning: This flaming sword was a picture of the future power of the Word of God. Ephesians 6:17 teaches that the “sword of the Spirit” is the Word of God. Hebrews 4:12 says the: “word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword” (kjv).
I’ve had numerous dreams of using a double-edged sword, and in every instance I was using it to fight a spiritual adversary—meaning I would defeat the adversity by reading, quoting, and believing the Word of God.
Tornadoes
First Reference: 2 Kings 2:1—Called a “whirlwind” in the Bible, tornadoes are mentioned twenty-seven times in the Old Testament.
Possible Meanings: A whirlwind is very sudden and very destructive, and it always represents either a literal storm of sudden disaster that is coming or a spiritual storm. Each time I have dreamed of a tornado it was a sudden disaster, often on a national level. I saw the five tornadoes in the 9/11 vision in 1996 and the oil tornado in the Gulf
of Mexico in July of 2007. Jeremiah 23:1–20 mentions the destruction caused by whirlwinds, which would also cause many deaths. Jeremiah was possibly alluding to the swiftness of the Babylonians who entered Israel and wreaked havoc on the temple and the city of Jerusalem. I once saw a leader over the U.S. State Department who was being followed by three huge tornadoes; I knew it represented three major nations or national problems she would deal with in her administrative position.
Tree(s)
First Reference: Genesis 3:2—Eve spoke to the serpent concerning the trees in the garden.
Possible Meanings: Trees actually have several meanings. Literal fruitbearing trees can allude to success (if they have fruit, Ps. 1:3) or to economic and business difficulties (if they are withered, Joel 1:12).
An individual tree could also allude to a person, as when King Nebuchadnezzar saw a large fruit tree cut down to the ground and Daniel interpreted the dream to mean that the tree was the king, and he would be cut down for seven years (Dan. 4).
The type of tree is significant also. - A palm tree represents the righteous (Ps. 92:12), and a cedar can allude to the righteous in ministry, as cedars were used in the temple (2 Chron. 1–6).
- A weeping willow can represent a time of sorrow (Ps. 137:1–4).
- A mustard tree can allude to faith (Luke 17:6),
- and a fig tree has prophetically alluded to Israel as a nation (Hosea 9:10).
- A barren, dead tree can allude to total death in the home, job, a person, or a situation.
Valley(s)
First Reference: Genesis 14:17–18—Abraham met the king-priest Melchizedek in the Valley of Shaveh.
Possible Meaning: Most Old Testament battles were fought in the valleys, including the battle of the five kings (Gen. 14:1–3), Joshua’s fight in the Valley of Aijalon (Josh. 10:12), and David slaying Goliath in the Valley of Elah (1 Sam. 17:2). Thus, valleys can indicate a time of conflict, struggle, and some form of clash. In Psalm 84:6 we read of
godly men who “as they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a spring.” A valley is something to pass through in order to get to the next destination.
Vessels
First Reference: Genesis 43:11—Jacob told his sons to take fruit, spices, and nuts to Egypt in vessels.
Possible Meaning: There are numerous references to vessels throughout the Bible. In the New Testament, Paul wrote that the spiritual character of individuals is compared to vessels of gold, silver, wood, and earth (2 Tim. 2:20). There are “vessels of mercy” (Rom. 9:23) and even vessels of wrath (v. 22). Humans are compared to vessels, as we are
containers that can hold righteousness, peace, joy, and the presence of God within our spirits (Rom. 14:17). When a person dreams of a shattered vessel, it can indicate a trial that will cause great brokenness. Picking up pieces can indicate you will assist in helping heal a bad situation. A full vessel can be a full blessing. The metal gold is associated with the priesthood or ministry (Ezra 1:1–11).
Walk ing Barefoot
First Reference: 2 Samuel 15:30—David left Jerusalem barefooted, running from a conspiracy to overthrow him.
Possible Meaning: Dreaming of being barefooted can represent not being prepared for a situation. David had to leave the city quickly to prevent a possible assassination (vv. 30–32). I have dreamed of being barefooted, and in each case something happened very swiftly and unexpectedly. When you wear your “gospel shoes,” your feet are
“shod with the preparation of the gospel” (Eph. 6:15).
Water
First Reference: Genesis 2:10—Four rivers went out to water the Garden of Eden.
Possible Meanings: Throughout Scripture, water was needed for survival among the ancient tribal families. A lack of water created famines. Water usually alludes to the Holy Spirit, as when Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit, He said, “He that believeth on me . . .out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38–39, kjv). Water purifies,
quenches thirst, and causes life to flourish—all three examples of the work of the Holy Spirit. A well of water is your inward source of blessing from the Spirit. A full well is fullness of the Spirit, and a dry well is a dry, empty spirit.
Weight Scales
First Reference: Job 31:6—Job spoke of being evenly weighed in God’s balance.
Possible Meaning: The Old Testament uses the word “balance” when referring to scales. The Scriptures speak of a false balance (Prov. 11:1, kjv) and a just weight
(Prov. 16:11, kjv). Daniel interpreted the handwriting on the wall, which said, “You have been weighed in the balances, and found wanting” (Dan. 5:27).
A dream or vision of a balance identifies God’s plan to weigh something or someone to see if it is just or unjust and if the blessing or disfavor of God will rest upon it.
Wheat
First Reference: Genesis 30:14—Reuben brought mandrakes from the field during the wheat harvest.
Possible Meanings: Many of the local wars that Israel fought with the Philistines and other tribes occurred at harvest time. The enemies desired the grain that had been collected. This is why Boaz was sleeping at his grain pile to prevent thieves from stealing the work of an entire month (Ruth 3:7). The wheat was very precious and valuable
and sustained life for the people throughout the long winters.
In the New Testament, the wheat represents the children of God in the kingdom (Matt. 13:38). Wheat also represents the local, national, Biblical Symbolism in Dreams and worldwide harvest of souls who need to be reached with the gospel. In nearly every example, a full wheat field is a full harvest, a dead wheat field is an area that has been spiritually destroyed by events that have hindered the effectiveness of the gospel, and a diseased wheat field can mean that the message preached in an area has been corrupted or perverted. Gathering in grain indicates you will have an ingathering of souls. Losing grain indicates people will depart from you, your church, or ministry.
Wind
First Reference: Genesis 8:1—When the wind sent from God blew over the earth, it dried up the floodwaters in Noah’s day.
Possible Meanings: There are two types of wind: wind that comes from heaven as a manifestation of the Holy Spirit, such as the “mighty rushing wind” on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1–4), and wind that brings destruction and death, as when Satan produced the wind storms that destroyed the house of Job’s family, bringing death to ten
children (Job 1). In a dream, if a wind is tearing up the surrounding area, it indicates a time of severe trouble is coming. If the wind is gentle and brings a positive feeling, it can allude to a move of the Holy Spirit upon a situation.
Egypt - the world
- the kingdom of darkness
- the house of bondage (Ex.20:2)
Israel - God's chosen people
- the Church
Pharaoh- god of this world, Satan
Moses - deliverer, Jesus
Red sea - separation, water baptism (1Cor.10:1-2)
Wilderness - place of refinement, testings, trials, humility(Deut.8:2)
- place of rebellion, provocation, murmuring (Num.14:27)
Golden calves - gods that Christians in apostasy make for themselves(1Kings 12:28, Ex.32:4,8)
The Law - God's unattainable standard to reveal sin in the flesh(Rom.7:13-14)
- God's rod of judgement to bring flesh and blood to
Jesus(Gal.3:23-25)
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River Jordan - door to the Promised Land
- the Cross, death of Jesus
- door to possession of the promises of God
Canaan - the promise of God, New Testament in Christ Jesus(Lev.25:38)
- the kingdom of heaven
- the resurrection life in Jesus
- the fulfillment of God's promise (Deut.11:11-15, 23-25)
Milk and honey - the abundant provision and blessings of God (Ex.3:7-8)
- abundant spiritual blessings in heavenly places(Eph.1:3)
The Tabernacle (Ex.25-27)
The Tabernacle - the ministry of Jesus Christ
- The Church
The Outer Court - things of brass
Outer court - physical body, the flesh
- the visible outward nature (2Cor.4:16)
Brazen altar - The Cross
- offering of sinful flesh unto death (Rom.12:1-2)
Brazen laver - water baptism
- cleansing by washing in the Spirit's teaching (Eph.5:26)
The Holy Place - things of gold
Table of bread - bread (gospel) for the people of God (Heb.9:1-2)
Candlestick - the Spirit's illumination in teaching and leading(Heb.9:1-2)
Altar of incense - the worship, praise and prayers of God's people
The second veil - the barrier of sin imputed into the flesh of Jesus(Heb.9:3)
The Holy of Holies - things of gold
The censer - offering of the obedient life and blood of Jesus(Heb.9:4)
The ark - presence of God, Jesus in flesh and blood (Jn.1:14 ,Col.2:9)
Pot of manna - Old Testament word of promise hid and fulfilled in Jesus (Heb.9:4)
- deep spiritual realities of heaven to be revealed to the last generation Church
Aaron's rod - only the authority and power of God's chosen will prosper
Tablets of the Law - The Law hid and fulfilled in Jesus
Cherubim - representing all power of heaven over Jesus (Mt.26:53)
Mercy seat - God's throne of grace and justice in Christ Jesus (Heb.9:5)
SYMBOLS AND ELEMENTS THEY MIGHT REPERESENT
The Godhead
Jesus Christ - Sun (Ps.84:11), the true Light (Jn.1:7-9)
- Shepherd (Ps.23:1), Bridegroom (Mt.9:15)
- Lion (Rev.5:5)
- Rock (1Cor.10:4), Cornerstone (Eph.2:20), Anchor(Heb.6:19), Teacher (Jn.3:2), Helper (Ps.54:4)
- Tree of life (Gen.2:9), Bread of life (Jn.6:35), seed of David (Jn.7:42)
The Holy Spirit - River of living water (Jn.7:38)
- Fire (Mt.3:11), Wind (Acts 2:2), Oil (Heb.1:9),
- Rain (Joel 2:23), Wine (Mt.9:17)
- Comforter (Jn.14:26), Friend (Pr.18:24), Teacher(Jn.14:26)
God the Father - Father of lights (James 1:17)
The Church
The Church - Israel, Jerusalem, the Temple of God (Eph.2:19-22,1Pet.2:9)
- sheep and lambs of God's pasture (Ps.100:3)
- harvest of fish (Mt.13:47) or fruit of the earth (Jam.5:7)
- stars of heaven (Gen.15:5), the moon (Gen.1:16)
The believer - tree of righteousness planted of God (Isa.61:3)
- a living stone of God's Temple (1Pet.2:4-5)
- sheep, lamb (Jn.21:15-17)
- seed of Abraham (Gal.3:29)
cycle (Lev. 23:22).
Fire
First Reference: Genesis 19:24—God rained down fire on Sodom and Gomorrah.
Possible Meaning: Fire is referred to 549 times in the kjv translation of the Bible. In many instances it is used to describe a judgment (Gen. 19:24), fire for a sacrifice (Gen. 22:6), or refers to God as when He manifested in the form of fire (Exod. 13:21–22). Isaiah’s lips were cleaned by coals of fire from the altar (Isa. 6:5–7). Uncontrolled conversation (the tongue) is compared to a fire (James 3:5–6). Certain types of trials and temptations are called “fiery trials” (1 Pet. 4:12).
A fire can refer to a trial, negative words being spoken, a purging of someone, or some situation that is going to occur.
Fishing
First Reference: John 21:3—The disciples were fishing after the resurrection of Jesus.
Possible Meanings: Fish are mentioned in both Testaments. Ezekiel speaks of spreading nets to catch many fish (Ezek. 47:10). Several of Christ’s disciples were fishermen and lived in fishing communities (Luke 5:1–7). Christ said He would make them “fishers of men” (Mark 1:17). In a dream, fishing is usually an indication of ministry and reaching souls. If the lake is small, it is a smaller ministry; if large, a large church or ministry is indicated. A fishing pole symbolizes a local church ministry, but a net indicates a global impact.
Flowers
First Reference: Exodus 25:31—Flowers are mentioned when describing the gold menorah and the beaten gold flower design on top.
Possible Meanings: Flowers appear once the winter is past and the spring arrives (Song of Sol. 2:11–12). Flowers indicate a fresh beginning, a passing of the old, and initiation of the new with a season of refreshing and rest. Flowers that have not bloomed indicate the early or infant stages of the new beginning.
Foxes
First References: Judges 15:4—Samson caught three hundred foxes, using them to set the Philistines’ fields on fire.
Possible Meaning: Foxes are small animals known to be crafty and subtle. They sneak in, do their damage, and then get out before being detected. Song of Solomon speaks of the “little foxes that spoil the vines” (Song of Sol. 2:15). A fox can represent a person who is working behind your back, unnoticed by you, but slowly hindering
what you are doing by what they are doing. By “spoiling the vines,” the spiritual growth or flow of the Holy Spirit is being disrupted and the fruit that should come forth will not manifest.
Goat
First Reference: Genesis 15:9—God required Abraham to offer a she goat as an offering.
Possible Meanings: Goats were used twice to deceive. First, when Jacob placed goat’s hair on his arms, posing as Esau to deceive his father (Gen. 27:16), and second, when Joseph’s coat was dipped in goat’s blood and presented as a sign that he was slain by an animal (Gen. 37:31). A goat is a negative image in the New Testament and can represent someone who is in the flock of sheep but is not real and can be deceptive by nature. The sheep and goats will be separated at the judgment (Matt. 25:33).
Jewelry or Gemstones
First Reference: Genesis 24:53—Rebekah was given jewelry of silver and gold from Abraham’s servant.
Possible Meanings: Jewelry or gemstones were handed over from the Egyptians to the departing Hebrews, who used the gold, silver, and jewelry for the building of the tabernacle in the wilderness (Exod. 11:2; 12:35; 35:22).
At the believer’s judgment, good works will be rewarded with “gold, silver, and precious stones” (1 Cor. 3:12).
To dream or see precious stones or precious metals is a good sign that there is coming a great blessing in some form, including but not limited to financial blessing or rewards for your faithfulness. This is what most believe will be a part of the reward.
Lamb
First Reference: Genesis 22:7–8—Abraham predicted God would provide a lamb for the offering.
Possible Meanings: Throughout the Bible, a lamb symbolizes the ultimate sacrifice, Jesus Christ (John 1:29). Jesus, the Great Shepherd, told Peter to “feed My lambs” (John 21:15). Thus, lambs in a spiritual dream indicate a flock of believers or the church.
Lamp
First Reference: Genesis 15:17—God passed between Abraham’s sacrifice with a burning lamp.
Possible Meaning: A lamp provides light in darkness. The commandments and the Word of God are compared to a lamp (Ps. 119:105;Prov. 6:23). In the parable of the ten virgins, all had lamps, but five virgins lacked the additional oil and had no light when the call came (Matt. 25:1–8).
A lamp burning is a sign that the light of the Word is present. A lamp gone out can allude to the light or truth not being presented or
received.
Left Hand
First Reference: Genesis 13:9—Abraham tells Lot to chose between the left and right side of the land before them.
Possible Meaning: In Job 23:9, Job recalls God’s blessing and his present trials and implies that although he cannot see God, when he is on God’s left, God is at work with His left hand. Some rabbis teach that God created light with His left hand and darkness with His right.
The left hand refers to a time of trial or seasons where it may appear that God is not working for us.
Lightning
First Reference: 2 Samuel 22:15—Speaks of God’s power, which includes sending lightning to discomfort His enemies.
Possible Meaning: The meaning of lightning depends on the setting and circumstances in a dream. When lightning strikes in the natural, it can cause fires and destruction, can shut down power, and so forth. In a spiritual dream, if lightning is striking on a clear day, it can indicate a coming storm that you do not see at the time. If striking during a storm, it indicates the violent or very troubling events that will unfold during the time of the spiritual storm.
Limping/Injury
First Reference: Genesis 32:25—The angel touched Jacob and his hip socket was out of joint permanently.
Possible Meaning: In his earlier days, Jacob was on the run, but with a limp he was slowed down, and it caused him to depend more upon God than upon himself. When experiencing a limp, it means something that will affect your spiritual walk.
The people of Israel were warned that if they followed the Canaanite idols, these false gods would become “scourges on your sides and thorns in your eyes” (Josh. 23:13). If a person has a moral failure, that person receives a form of a limp.
Locusts
First Reference: Exodus 10:14—God sent a plague of locusts to the Egyptians.
Possible Meanings: Locusts devour anything that is green and growing. A swarm can wipe out plants and the leaves of trees (Exod. 10). A locust is an insect that if not destroyed can slowly destroy entire crops (Joel 1:4). Locusts are small, but when joined as a swarm, they are a great agitation.
In a spiritual dream, a locust is a small creature and can be the imagery of small things combining together to agitate and create many hindrances that you need to battle. You need to protect the spiritual growth in your life and guard against letting little things agitate and become big destroyers.
Meat
First Reference: Genesis 27:4—Isaac asked Esau to prepare his favorite “meat” (kjv).
Possible Meanings: In the kjv, meat is first used in Genesis 1:29: “Every tree . . .shall be for meat.” This word in Hebrew is oklah and means food. The word meat in Genesis 27:4 refers to actual animal meat, which is the main meaning throughout much of the Bible. In the New Testament, the two levels of understanding and receiving the
Word of God are “milk and meat” (Heb. 5:12–13, kjv). Milk is the simplicity of the Word received by immature or young believers, whereas meat is the stronger doctrine of the Scriptures.
Dreaming of meat in a spiritual dream can allude to the deeper teaching or instruction from the Word of God or to more mature believers.
Mountain(s)
First Reference: Genesis 7:20—The flood waters prevailed above the mountains during Noah’s flood.
Possible Meanings: Mountains have numerous applications. Sitting or living on a mountain can allude to a great victory or accomplishment, as the ark “rested” on the mountains of Ararat (Gen. 8:4). Being at Biblical Symbolism in Dreams the bottom of a mountain and attempting to climb can allude to a situation that will take time and effort to deal with. Mountains can be difficulties that need to be removed by faith (Matt. 17:20). The seven mountains in prophecy are seven major kingdoms of prophecy (Rev. 17).
Oil
First Reference: Genesis 28:18—Jacob poured oil on top of a rock to mark the spot of visitation by the angel of the Lord.
Possible Meanings: Throughout the Bible, oil became the substance used to mark a sacred spot or to anoint sacred objects, including kings, prophets, and priests (Exod. 28:41; 1 Sam. 16:12; Zech. 4:14). James instructed the elders to pray over the sick, “anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord” for their healing (James 5:14).
Oil is a very positive symbol in a spiritual dream and is linked to ministry, the anointing of the Spirit, or the calling of God for His work and service.
Prostitute
First Reference: Genesis 34:31—Simeon and Levi are angry that their sister was treated like a harlot.
Possible Meaning: In the Old Testament, a harlot is a symbol of religious unfaithfulness and spiritual adultery. In Revelation 17, a harlot is riding on the beast representing the final kingdom. To dream of a harlot indicates seduction from the truth or turning from righteousness. The seduction can come through a person or through a spirit
that will rise and work against your mind and your beliefs.
Rain
First Reference: Genesis 2:5—In the Garden of Eden, the Lord had not yet caused it to rain on the earth.
Possible Meaning: With the exception of the flood of Noah (Gen. 7–8), rain by itself (without flooding or lightning) is a good indication of the blessing of the Lord in your life, ministry, or church. The terms “early and latter rain” refer to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Joel 2:23; James 5:7). A businessman once dreamed of supporting our
ministry and of gold raindrops falling upon him. As he did begin to support our ministry, his business began to flourish and prosper.
Rain also brings growth and fruit to plants and trees.
Right Hand
First Reference: Genesis 13:9—Abraham told Lot to choose the land between the right and left hand.
Possible Meaning: The Genesis 13 reference deals with deciding between two choices. Later in the ancient culture, the right hand represented authority or power. The mother of James and John wanted Christ to seat her sons on His right hand (Matt. 20:21). Christ is in heaven seated at the “right hand of God” (Acts 7:55–56). Christ has seven stars in his right hand (Rev. 1:20), and the seven-sealed book is in the right hand of God (Rev. 5:1, 7).
The name Benjamin means “son of my right hand,” as the right hand is symbolic of having favor, receiving authority, and position.
River
First Reference: Genesis 2:10—In the Garden of Eden, four rivers flowed from one source to water the garden.
Possible Meanings: One of the famous biblical rivers is the Jordan in Israel, mentioned 182 times in the Old Testament in the King James Version. It serves as a border between two nations: Israel on the west and Jordan on the east. When the Jordan was crossed, it represented a new beginning, as Joshua crossed with Israel (Josh. 3–5).
Elijah crossed the Jordan and was translated (2 Kings 2:6–13), and Christ was baptized in the Jordan (Matt. 3:13). Crossing the Jordan also alluded to a picture of death and resurrection.
If a river is flooding in a destructive manner, it can indicate a literal flood or a flood of difficulties. If it is dark water, it is a trial, but clear flowing water in a river can indicate a coming transition that will be smooth.
Rock(s)
First Reference: Exodus 17:6—Moses stood upon the rock in Horeb to bring forth water from the rock.
Possible Meanings: Scripture teaches that God is our rock (Deut. 32:4) and that the rock that brought forth water in the wilderness was Christ (1 Cor. 10:4). Stumbling on a large rock can represent a spiritual offense either in the Word or an offense caused by believing in Christ (1 Pet. 2:8). A rock foundation means a strong spiritual foundation
in the Word of God.
Sand
First Reference: Genesis 22:17—God promised Abraham that his seed would be as the sand upon the seashore.
Possible Meaning: The stars are heavenly, but sand is earthly. The “spiritual seed” of Abraham is the church, whose promises are heavenly. The earthly seed are the natural Hebrew people, as their promises from God are earthly (the land of Israel, Jerusalem, and so forth). Stars can fall from heaven (which is what occurred with Lucifer, Isaiah 14:12–15). Sand can also be shaken by wind and moved by water. Christ taught that any foundation built upon the sand will eventually collapse (Matt. 7:26–27).
To dream of sand presents several possible meanings. Walking in sand is to walk into, or through, a possible unstable situation. To be buried in sand is earthly, indicating carnal surroundings that are attempting to choke you spiritually. To build on sand indicates one who “hears these sayings of Mine [Jesus], and does not do them” (Matt. 7:26).
The Sea
First Reference: Genesis 1:26—Man was given dominion over the fish of the sea.
Possible Meanings: In prophetic application, the sea can allude to nations of the earth (Isa. 17:12). The beast of Revelation 13:1 rises up from the sea, or from the nations around the Mediterranean, called the Great Sea in Daniel (Dan. 7:1–4). When Daniel saw the winds “stirring up the Great Sea,” it was indicating conflict among the nations (v. 2).
Serpent
First Reference: Genesis 3:1—The serpent in the garden tempts Eve to eat from the forbidden fruit.
Possible Meanings: Satan used the serpent in the garden, and thus throughout the Scripture a serpent is the imagery of Satan or the powers of darkness. In Revelation, Satan is called “that serpent of old, called the Devil” (Rev. 12:9; 20:2). A spiritual dream involving Biblical Symbolism in Dreams serpents is never a good omen and alludes to an attack or a very difficult time. If the serpent bites you, it means the problem will have an effect upon you emotionally, physically, or spiritually.
Smoke
First Reference: Genesis 19:28—Smoke “like the smoke of a furnace” want up when the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were burning.
Possible Meanings: Smoke is the result of a fire. Smoke is never a positive imagery because it represents the remains of something that has burned. David spoke of being “like a wineskin in smoke” (Ps. 119:83), referring to a wineskin hanging in a tent near a fire that the smoke dries out.
Smoke can create discomfort and block what you are attempting to see. Where there is smoke there is a fire, and this can refer to a situation that creates stress and confusion.
Stars
First Reference: Genesis 1:16—God made the lesser light such as the moon and stars.
Possible Meanings: Stars are imagery of lights that shine in darkness. They also symbolize eternal promises such as when God said that Abraham’s seed would be as the stars of heaven (which cannot be numbered, Gen. 15:5). Seeing stars often represents the promises of God, especially provision during dark or difficult times.
Storms
First Reference: Job 21:18—The writer of Job speaks of how a storm carries away the chaff with the wind.
Possible Meaning: Scripture speaks of escaping the storm (Ps. 55:8), of God being a covering, or shelter, in the storm (Isa. 4:6), and of God performing His will through a storm (Nahum 1:3). In the Gospels, storms would arise on Galilee; one nearly capsized the boat of the disciples (Mark 4:37; Luke 8:23).
A spiritual storm that God allows can help a person search his or her life and remove the excessive chaff from the life of a believer.
A storm created by your circumstances will cause you to search your life to determine your spiritual level of faith. A storm created by demonic powers is intended to capsize your faith, as when Satan desired to sift Peter as wheat to destroy his faith (Luke 22:31–32).
A storm in a dream indicates conflict, a time of difficulty, or a challenge that is come into your life, family, or church. If it damages trees, it can allude to individuals getting hurt because of the situation.
Swine
First Reference: Leviticus 11:7—God classifies the swine as an unclean animal.
Possible Meaning: In the New Testament, the evil spirits in the man of Gadara went into the swine (Matt. 8:32). Christ instructed His followers not to “cast your pearls before swine” (Matt. 7:6). In 2 Peter 2:22, a backslider is like a dog returning to its vomit and a swine that is washed returning to the mud.
In a dream, a swine is a very unclean person or situation and can allude to a backslider who once knew Christ but has returned to his or her life of sin.
Sword
First Reference: Genesis 3:24—The cherubim with flaming swords were guarding the tree of life in Eden.
Possible Meaning: This flaming sword was a picture of the future power of the Word of God. Ephesians 6:17 teaches that the “sword of the Spirit” is the Word of God. Hebrews 4:12 says the: “word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword” (kjv).
I’ve had numerous dreams of using a double-edged sword, and in every instance I was using it to fight a spiritual adversary—meaning I would defeat the adversity by reading, quoting, and believing the Word of God.
Tornadoes
First Reference: 2 Kings 2:1—Called a “whirlwind” in the Bible, tornadoes are mentioned twenty-seven times in the Old Testament.
Possible Meanings: A whirlwind is very sudden and very destructive, and it always represents either a literal storm of sudden disaster that is coming or a spiritual storm. Each time I have dreamed of a tornado it was a sudden disaster, often on a national level. I saw the five tornadoes in the 9/11 vision in 1996 and the oil tornado in the Gulf
of Mexico in July of 2007. Jeremiah 23:1–20 mentions the destruction caused by whirlwinds, which would also cause many deaths. Jeremiah was possibly alluding to the swiftness of the Babylonians who entered Israel and wreaked havoc on the temple and the city of Jerusalem. I once saw a leader over the U.S. State Department who was being followed by three huge tornadoes; I knew it represented three major nations or national problems she would deal with in her administrative position.
Tree(s)
First Reference: Genesis 3:2—Eve spoke to the serpent concerning the trees in the garden.
Possible Meanings: Trees actually have several meanings. Literal fruitbearing trees can allude to success (if they have fruit, Ps. 1:3) or to economic and business difficulties (if they are withered, Joel 1:12).
An individual tree could also allude to a person, as when King Nebuchadnezzar saw a large fruit tree cut down to the ground and Daniel interpreted the dream to mean that the tree was the king, and he would be cut down for seven years (Dan. 4).
The type of tree is significant also. - A palm tree represents the righteous (Ps. 92:12), and a cedar can allude to the righteous in ministry, as cedars were used in the temple (2 Chron. 1–6).
- A weeping willow can represent a time of sorrow (Ps. 137:1–4).
- A mustard tree can allude to faith (Luke 17:6),
- and a fig tree has prophetically alluded to Israel as a nation (Hosea 9:10).
- A barren, dead tree can allude to total death in the home, job, a person, or a situation.
Valley(s)
First Reference: Genesis 14:17–18—Abraham met the king-priest Melchizedek in the Valley of Shaveh.
Possible Meaning: Most Old Testament battles were fought in the valleys, including the battle of the five kings (Gen. 14:1–3), Joshua’s fight in the Valley of Aijalon (Josh. 10:12), and David slaying Goliath in the Valley of Elah (1 Sam. 17:2). Thus, valleys can indicate a time of conflict, struggle, and some form of clash. In Psalm 84:6 we read of
godly men who “as they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a spring.” A valley is something to pass through in order to get to the next destination.
Vessels
First Reference: Genesis 43:11—Jacob told his sons to take fruit, spices, and nuts to Egypt in vessels.
Possible Meaning: There are numerous references to vessels throughout the Bible. In the New Testament, Paul wrote that the spiritual character of individuals is compared to vessels of gold, silver, wood, and earth (2 Tim. 2:20). There are “vessels of mercy” (Rom. 9:23) and even vessels of wrath (v. 22). Humans are compared to vessels, as we are
containers that can hold righteousness, peace, joy, and the presence of God within our spirits (Rom. 14:17). When a person dreams of a shattered vessel, it can indicate a trial that will cause great brokenness. Picking up pieces can indicate you will assist in helping heal a bad situation. A full vessel can be a full blessing. The metal gold is associated with the priesthood or ministry (Ezra 1:1–11).
Walk ing Barefoot
First Reference: 2 Samuel 15:30—David left Jerusalem barefooted, running from a conspiracy to overthrow him.
Possible Meaning: Dreaming of being barefooted can represent not being prepared for a situation. David had to leave the city quickly to prevent a possible assassination (vv. 30–32). I have dreamed of being barefooted, and in each case something happened very swiftly and unexpectedly. When you wear your “gospel shoes,” your feet are
“shod with the preparation of the gospel” (Eph. 6:15).
Water
First Reference: Genesis 2:10—Four rivers went out to water the Garden of Eden.
Possible Meanings: Throughout Scripture, water was needed for survival among the ancient tribal families. A lack of water created famines. Water usually alludes to the Holy Spirit, as when Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit, He said, “He that believeth on me . . .out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38–39, kjv). Water purifies,
quenches thirst, and causes life to flourish—all three examples of the work of the Holy Spirit. A well of water is your inward source of blessing from the Spirit. A full well is fullness of the Spirit, and a dry well is a dry, empty spirit.
Weight Scales
First Reference: Job 31:6—Job spoke of being evenly weighed in God’s balance.
Possible Meaning: The Old Testament uses the word “balance” when referring to scales. The Scriptures speak of a false balance (Prov. 11:1, kjv) and a just weight
(Prov. 16:11, kjv). Daniel interpreted the handwriting on the wall, which said, “You have been weighed in the balances, and found wanting” (Dan. 5:27).
A dream or vision of a balance identifies God’s plan to weigh something or someone to see if it is just or unjust and if the blessing or disfavor of God will rest upon it.
Wheat
First Reference: Genesis 30:14—Reuben brought mandrakes from the field during the wheat harvest.
Possible Meanings: Many of the local wars that Israel fought with the Philistines and other tribes occurred at harvest time. The enemies desired the grain that had been collected. This is why Boaz was sleeping at his grain pile to prevent thieves from stealing the work of an entire month (Ruth 3:7). The wheat was very precious and valuable
and sustained life for the people throughout the long winters.
In the New Testament, the wheat represents the children of God in the kingdom (Matt. 13:38). Wheat also represents the local, national, Biblical Symbolism in Dreams and worldwide harvest of souls who need to be reached with the gospel. In nearly every example, a full wheat field is a full harvest, a dead wheat field is an area that has been spiritually destroyed by events that have hindered the effectiveness of the gospel, and a diseased wheat field can mean that the message preached in an area has been corrupted or perverted. Gathering in grain indicates you will have an ingathering of souls. Losing grain indicates people will depart from you, your church, or ministry.
Wind
First Reference: Genesis 8:1—When the wind sent from God blew over the earth, it dried up the floodwaters in Noah’s day.
Possible Meanings: There are two types of wind: wind that comes from heaven as a manifestation of the Holy Spirit, such as the “mighty rushing wind” on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1–4), and wind that brings destruction and death, as when Satan produced the wind storms that destroyed the house of Job’s family, bringing death to ten
children (Job 1). In a dream, if a wind is tearing up the surrounding area, it indicates a time of severe trouble is coming. If the wind is gentle and brings a positive feeling, it can allude to a move of the Holy Spirit upon a situation.
- Some common Old Testament examples
Egypt - the world
- the kingdom of darkness
- the house of bondage (Ex.20:2)
Israel - God's chosen people
- the Church
Pharaoh- god of this world, Satan
Moses - deliverer, Jesus
Red sea - separation, water baptism (1Cor.10:1-2)
Wilderness - place of refinement, testings, trials, humility(Deut.8:2)
- place of rebellion, provocation, murmuring (Num.14:27)
Golden calves - gods that Christians in apostasy make for themselves(1Kings 12:28, Ex.32:4,8)
The Law - God's unattainable standard to reveal sin in the flesh(Rom.7:13-14)
- God's rod of judgement to bring flesh and blood to
Jesus(Gal.3:23-25)
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River Jordan - door to the Promised Land
- the Cross, death of Jesus
- door to possession of the promises of God
Canaan - the promise of God, New Testament in Christ Jesus(Lev.25:38)
- the kingdom of heaven
- the resurrection life in Jesus
- the fulfillment of God's promise (Deut.11:11-15, 23-25)
Milk and honey - the abundant provision and blessings of God (Ex.3:7-8)
- abundant spiritual blessings in heavenly places(Eph.1:3)
The Tabernacle (Ex.25-27)
The Tabernacle - the ministry of Jesus Christ
- The Church
The Outer Court - things of brass
Outer court - physical body, the flesh
- the visible outward nature (2Cor.4:16)
Brazen altar - The Cross
- offering of sinful flesh unto death (Rom.12:1-2)
Brazen laver - water baptism
- cleansing by washing in the Spirit's teaching (Eph.5:26)
The Holy Place - things of gold
Table of bread - bread (gospel) for the people of God (Heb.9:1-2)
Candlestick - the Spirit's illumination in teaching and leading(Heb.9:1-2)
Altar of incense - the worship, praise and prayers of God's people
The second veil - the barrier of sin imputed into the flesh of Jesus(Heb.9:3)
The Holy of Holies - things of gold
The censer - offering of the obedient life and blood of Jesus(Heb.9:4)
The ark - presence of God, Jesus in flesh and blood (Jn.1:14 ,Col.2:9)
Pot of manna - Old Testament word of promise hid and fulfilled in Jesus (Heb.9:4)
- deep spiritual realities of heaven to be revealed to the last generation Church
Aaron's rod - only the authority and power of God's chosen will prosper
Tablets of the Law - The Law hid and fulfilled in Jesus
Cherubim - representing all power of heaven over Jesus (Mt.26:53)
Mercy seat - God's throne of grace and justice in Christ Jesus (Heb.9:5)
SYMBOLS AND ELEMENTS THEY MIGHT REPERESENT
The Godhead
Jesus Christ - Sun (Ps.84:11), the true Light (Jn.1:7-9)
- Shepherd (Ps.23:1), Bridegroom (Mt.9:15)
- Lion (Rev.5:5)
- Rock (1Cor.10:4), Cornerstone (Eph.2:20), Anchor(Heb.6:19), Teacher (Jn.3:2), Helper (Ps.54:4)
- Tree of life (Gen.2:9), Bread of life (Jn.6:35), seed of David (Jn.7:42)
The Holy Spirit - River of living water (Jn.7:38)
- Fire (Mt.3:11), Wind (Acts 2:2), Oil (Heb.1:9),
- Rain (Joel 2:23), Wine (Mt.9:17)
- Comforter (Jn.14:26), Friend (Pr.18:24), Teacher(Jn.14:26)
God the Father - Father of lights (James 1:17)
The Church
The Church - Israel, Jerusalem, the Temple of God (Eph.2:19-22,1Pet.2:9)
- sheep and lambs of God's pasture (Ps.100:3)
- harvest of fish (Mt.13:47) or fruit of the earth (Jam.5:7)
- stars of heaven (Gen.15:5), the moon (Gen.1:16)
The believer - tree of righteousness planted of God (Isa.61:3)
- a living stone of God's Temple (1Pet.2:4-5)
- sheep, lamb (Jn.21:15-17)
- seed of Abraham (Gal.3:29)