Islamic Dream Interpretation: Meaning of 10 Common Dreams in Tafsir al-Ahlam by Ibn Sirin

Dreams have fascinated people for centuries, and they are often the subject of interpretations and analyses. In Islam, dreams are believed to be a means of divine communication and guidance, and understanding their meanings can provide insights into one's spiritual and personal life. In this blog post, we'll explore the 10 most common dreams and their interpretations based on the book 'Tafsir al-Ahlam.' Whether you're curious about the symbolism of dreaming of snakes or water, or seeking guidance on a particular dream, this guide will provide you with insights on interpreting these common dream themes in an Islamic context.
The book "Tafsir al-Ahlam" (Interpretation of Dreams) by Ibn Sirin. It is a famous book on dream interpretation that has been widely read and studied in the Muslim world. The author, Abu Bakr Muhammad Ibn Sirin, was a prominent Islamic scholar and interpreter of dreams who lived in the 8th century CE. His book is considered one of the most authoritative works on the subject of dream interpretation and has been translated into many languages. It contains interpretations of various symbols and objects that may appear in dreams and their meanings according to Islamic tradition. You can buy the Arabic book on amazon here
Here are the 10 most common dreams and their interpretations based on the book 'Tafsir al-Ahlam.'
Dreaming of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

In the book "Tafsir al-Ahlam," dreaming of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is generally considered a positive and auspicious dream. The dream is believed to be a sign of receiving divine blessings, guidance, and protection. The interpretation of this dream may vary depending on the context and details of the dream, but here are some common interpretations:
If one dreams of seeing the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and having a conversation with him, it may indicate receiving guidance, wisdom, and spiritual insight. It may also symbolize receiving blessings from Allah and being on the right path.
If one dreams of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) giving them a gift or presenting them with something, it may indicate receiving divine favor and blessings.
If one dreams of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) smiling at them, it may indicate receiving happiness, joy, and peace in their life.
If one dreams of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) praying for them, it may indicate receiving divine protection and guidance in their life. It may also indicate that their supplications and prayers are being heard and answered by Allah.
Overall, dreaming of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is considered a positive and blessed dream in Islamic dream interpretation. It is believed to be a sign of divine favor and guidance, and may indicate that the dreamer is on the right path and receiving spiritual blessings.
Dreaming of reciting or hearing the Quran

In the book "Tafsir al-Ahlam," dreaming of reciting or hearing the Quran is considered a very positive and blessed dream. The dream is believed to be a sign of divine guidance, protection, and blessings. The interpretation of this dream may vary depending on the context and details of the dream, but here are some common interpretations:
If one dreams of reciting the Quran, it may indicate that they are on the right path and that their supplications and prayers are being heard and answered by Allah. It may also indicate that they are seeking spiritual guidance and wisdom.
If one dreams of hearing the Quran being recited, it may indicate that they are receiving divine blessings and protection. It may also indicate that they are surrounded by people who are pious and righteous.
If one dreams of holding a Quran, it may indicate that they are seeking spiritual guidance and wisdom. It may also indicate that they are protected from evil and that they have a strong connection with Allah.
Overall, dreaming of reciting or hearing the Quran is considered a very positive and blessed dream in Islamic dream interpretation. It is believed to be a sign of divine guidance, protection, and blessings, and may indicate that the dreamer is seeking spiritual guidance and wisdom, and is on the right path.
Dreaming of praying or performing prayer (Salah)

In the book "Tafsir al-Ahlam," dreaming of praying or performing the Islamic ritual prayer (Salah) is generally considered a positive and blessed dream. The dream is believed to be a sign of spiritual growth, piety, and devotion. The interpretation of this dream may vary depending on the context and details of the dream, but here are some common interpretations:
If one dreams of praying or performing Salah in a mosque or in the Ka'aba, it may indicate that the dreamer is seeking spiritual growth and guidance. It may also indicate that the dreamer has a strong connection with Allah and is on the right path.
If one dreams of performing Salah with other people, it may indicate that the dreamer is surrounded by people who are pious and righteous. It may also indicate that the dreamer is seeking community and support in their spiritual journey.
If one dreams of performing Salah in a difficult or challenging situation, such as during a journey or in a difficult environment, it may indicate that the dreamer is seeking guidance and protection from Allah in difficult times.
Overall, dreaming of praying or performing Salah is considered a positive and blessed dream in Islamic dream interpretation. It is believed to be a sign of spiritual growth, piety, and devotion, and may indicate that the dreamer is seeking guidance and protection from Allah, and is on the right path.
Dreaming of water or a river

In the book "Tafsir al-Ahlam," dreaming of water or a river is a common dream and can have different interpretations depending on the context and details of the dream. Here are some common interpretations:
If one dreams of clear, calm water, it may indicate peace, prosperity, and happiness in their life. It may also indicate purity and spiritual cleansing.
If one dreams of dirty or murky water, it may indicate emotional turmoil or spiritual impurity. It may also indicate difficulties or obstacles in their life.
If one dreams of a river, it may indicate the flow of life, changes, and transitions. It may also indicate the passage of time and the inevitability of change.
If one dreams of crossing a river, it may indicate a transition in their life, such as a change of job or a move to a new place. It may also indicate overcoming obstacles and challenges in their life.
If one dreams of drowning in water, it may indicate emotional turmoil, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed in their life. It may also indicate a need for spiritual cleansing and purification.
Dreaming of snakes

In the book "Tafsir al-Ahlam," dreaming of snakes can have different interpretations depending on the context and details of the dream. Here are some common interpretations:
If one dreams of killing a snake, it may indicate that the dreamer is overcoming their fears and enemies. It may also indicate that the dreamer is overcoming temptations and sins.
If one dreams of being bitten by a snake, it may indicate that the dreamer is facing a hidden danger or a betrayal from someone close to them. It may also indicate that the dreamer is facing temptation or sin.
If one dreams of a black snake, it may indicate that the dreamer is facing a hidden danger or a betrayal from someone close to them. It may also indicate that the dreamer is facing temptation or sin.
If one dreams of a green snake, it may indicate that the dreamer is facing jealousy, envy, or deceit from someone close to them. It may also indicate that the dreamer is facing a new opportunity or a new beginning.
If one dreams of a red snake, it may indicate that the dreamer is facing danger, anger, or passion in their life. It may also indicate that the dreamer is facing a difficult situation that requires courage and strength.
Dreaming of death or dying

In the book "Tafsir al-Ahlam," dreaming of death or dying can have different interpretations depending on the context and details of the dream. Here are some common interpretations:
If one dreams of their own death, it may indicate that the dreamer is going through a major transformation in their life. It may also indicate that the dreamer is facing a difficult situation that requires them to let go of something in their life.
If one dreams of someone else's death, it may indicate that the dreamer is experiencing a change in their relationship with that person. It may also indicate that the dreamer is facing a difficult situation that requires them to let go of something related to that person.
If one dreams of a dead person coming back to life, it may indicate that the dreamer is experiencing a new beginning or a new opportunity in their life. It may also indicate that the dreamer is seeking forgiveness or redemption.
If one dreams of attending a funeral, it may indicate that the dreamer is experiencing grief or loss in their life. It may also indicate that the dreamer is acknowledging the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death.
If one dreams of dying and then being resurrected, it may indicate that the dreamer is experiencing a spiritual awakening or transformation. It may also indicate that the dreamer is seeking forgiveness or redemption.
Dreaming of marriage or weddings

In the book "Tafsir al-Ahlam," dreaming of marriage or weddings can have different interpretations depending on the context and details of the dream. Here are some common interpretations:
If one dreams of getting married, it may indicate that the dreamer is seeking a new partnership or a new beginning in their life. It may also indicate that the dreamer is seeking spiritual or emotional fulfillment.
If one dreams of attending a wedding, it may indicate that the dreamer is celebrating a new beginning or a new opportunity in their life. It may also indicate that the dreamer is experiencing joy and happiness.
If one dreams of a wedding ceremony being disrupted or canceled, it may indicate that the dreamer is facing obstacles or challenges in their relationship or partnership. It may also indicate that the dreamer is experiencing anxiety or uncertainty about their future.
If one dreams of a wedding ring, it may indicate that the dreamer is committing to a new partnership or a new beginning in their life. It may also indicate that the dreamer is seeking loyalty and commitment in their relationships.
If one dreams of being a bride or groom, it may indicate that the dreamer is seeking spiritual or emotional fulfillment. It may also indicate that the dreamer is experiencing a new beginning or a new opportunity in their life.
Dreaming of flying

In the book "Tafsir al-Ahlam," dreaming of flying can have different interpretations depending on the context and details of the dream. Here are some common interpretations: