Understanding Dreams: Messages from Beyond?
Explore the mystery of dreams featuring deceased loved ones. Are they divine messages or simply reflections of our minds? Learn the meaning of common dream symbols and practices to fulfill dreams.
- הידברות סופשבוע
- פורסם כ"ג חשון התשע"ד

#VALUE!
My brother passed away in 2006. I was very close to him, but he hasn't appeared to me in dreams. I want to know he's not suffering. My aunt dreams of him standing silently by her bedside. Why don't I dream of him, and what does my aunt's dream mean?
Today, it's rare for those who have passed to visit in dreams through divine revelations. Usually, dreams stem from our imagination. Don't worry that your brother hasn't appeared in your dreams; it doesn't signify anything. Focus on saying Kaddish, studying Mishnah, and giving charity in his memory—these are fundamental acts for the departed souls.
Is it possible that Hashem tests us even in our dreams—like helping a friend in distress or resisting temptation?
Indeed, if someone has refined themselves, even their instincts, it shows in their dreams. A person who doesn't fail in dreams demonstrates their spiritual stature. This isn't so much a divine test as a measure of where one stands spiritually. If one struggles in dreams, they still have work to do in the waking world.
When dreaming of a deceased relative, does the soul enter the dream, or is it just in the subconscious?
Sometimes the soul does come to deliver a message, but often it's a result of our own thoughts and emotions.
Lately, I've been having persistent nightmares about being loveless at 30. Do these dreams mean I'll soon find happiness?
Make sure to recite the Shema prayer before bed and ask Hashem to protect you from bad dreams, with Hashem's help.
My sister passed in an accident 5 years ago. How can I dream of her?
Blessed be Hashem that she doesn't appear; she's in her rightful place in the afterlife, so there's no need to disturb her.
I am nine months pregnant. I dreamt my mother gave birth to my deceased father's child because my brothers lack sons. I also dreamt I would give birth on my brother's birthday. Seeking a second opinion.
Dreams interpreted within themselves are true dreams. If you thought that in the dream, it might be the interpretation. Consider adding a name if your father passed before 60. Wishing you an easy birth.
For weeks, I've dreamt of dogs—sometimes chasing, sometimes in my house. Interpretations vary between impending pregnancy or enemies.
Those who see dogs in dreams should recite "To the children of Israel, no dog shall bark." Here's what these mean: Dogs running—gossip; Playing with dogs—appeasing enemies; Barking dogs—enemy plots; Biting dog—enemy triumphs; Fighting a dog—overcoming enemies. If you have a pet dog, these dreams hold no significance.
Is there a way to make a dream come true? I had a very clear dream on Shabbat morning.
To try and fulfill a dream, go to synagogue for morning prayers, and during the priestly blessing, say the following prayer with intention: [Dream Fulfillment Prayer Text].
I dreamt of losing a molar tooth painfully. How to reverse bad omens in a dream?
Dreams of losing teeth often signal misfortune. Speak to someone, preferably a rabbi, to interpret it favorably. Dreams follow their interpreter; if someone who loves you interprets it positively, it impacts reality. I can refer you to someone for a positive interpretation if you'd like.
Want to learn more about dreams? Watch Rabbi Zamir Cohen's lecture, "The Secret of Dreams"
Answers provided by Rabbis Menashe Yisrael and Binyamin Shmueli, curated from the Q&A section on the Hidabroot website.