Dream Interpretation from an Islamic Perspective: Reality, Types, and Guidance
The Meaning of Dream Interpretation
In Arabic, “Tabeer” means explanation or interpretation. “عبرت الرؤیا” translates to “I interpreted the dream.” The term is used in its softened and intensified forms, with the heightened version implying exaggeration. “Ru’ya” (vision) refers to something a person sees in their sleep.
Qazi Abu Bakr al-Arabi, one of the prominent scholars of the Maliki school of thought, states: “A dream is a perception that Allah Almighty shows to His servant through an angel or a devil, along with its realities or interpretations.” (Madarij al-Nubuwwah)
Types of Knowledge According to Shah Abdul Aziz
Hazrat Shah Abdul Aziz Muhaddith Dehlawi (may Allah have mercy on him) explained that knowledge is of two types: zahir (external) and batin (internal).
In his teachings, Shah Abdul Aziz included dreams within inner knowledge or Batini ilm. This inner knowledge relates to spiritual insight and understanding beyond the physical and observable world. In this view, dreams serve as divine guidance or insight, often conveying meanings that require careful interpretation.
True Dreams are a Blessing from Allah
True dreams are a special gift from Allah Almighty, given to Islam’s Prophets and Awliya (saints). Through their grace, the believers also benefit from them.
Who to Share Your Dreams With
Only some people should share their dreams. Only a righteous scholar or someone with knowledge of dream interpretation should be told, and one should not fabricate one’s interpretation. Dreams have an accurate impact, and their interpretation carries consequences.
Prophetic Dreams as Revelation
The dreams of the Prophets (peace be upon them) are a form of revelation, and their interpretations are also revealed. For example, Prophet Ya’qub (peace be upon him) interpreted a dream through divine revelation. (Ruh al-Bayan).
Nightmares and Their Causes
Nightmares are sometimes from Shaytan and should not be feared. Upon waking, recite “أَعُوذُ بِاللَّهِ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ” three times to the left and blow gently. Such dreams are often meaningless, especially when caused by physical factors like indigestion or stress. Pregnant women or those with irregular menstrual cycles often experience disturbing dreams, which should not be taken seriously. The remedy for such dreams is to recite Ayat al-Kursi seven times and the four Quls (Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah An-Nas) three times and then blow the recitations over some sweet oil. Before sleep, place two drops of the oil in each ear. (Shama-i-Shabistan)
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The Dreams of Saints and Scholars
The dreams of Awliya (saints) and righteous scholars are often true, and these are sometimes inspired by divine revelation. Imam Ibn Sirin (may Allah have mercy on him) said: “To interpret dreams, one must be a scholar of religion, well-versed in the principles of dream interpretation based on hadith, and possess a pure soul and good character. Such a person will receive guidance from Allah and be blessed with knowledge and wisdom.”