abyss image

Abyss Dream Meaning

Dream interpretation from 26 unique sources about Abyss

(1) An abyss may symbolize impending danger, real or imagined. In either case the important thing is that the dream is expressing vour anxiety. Look for anything in your present life situation - at home or at work - that may have triggered off anxiety. Otherwise, and especially if this sort of dream is recurring, look inside yourself for the causes of your anxiety.

(2) A dark abyss may symbolize the unconscious. The unconscious appears to be bottomless, since no matter how deeply you delve into it there is always more depth to explore. Note the emotional ‘feel’ of the abyss in the dream. Are you entering it, or just standing fearfully on the brink? The unconscious may well be frightening because you are unfamiliar with it or because you have buried there some morally unacceptable or intolerably painful experience. However, the only way forward is to uncover those buried parts of yourself, face them, give them a proper hearing and, finally, allow them a proper place in your everyday conscious life.

(3) The dark abyss may signify death. This may be physical death or some form of psychic death. There are times when the present ego has to be dissolved to make way for the next phase in the unfolding of a fuller, more positive self.

If you are convinced that the message of your dream has to do with physical death (and you should allow yourself to lx* thus convinced only after you have seriously and thoroughly considered possible metaphorical interpretations of‘death’), do not rush to the conclusion that the dream is foretelling imminent death. Perhaps your dream is reminding you of the fact of death in order to give you a new perspective on vour life - which could be liberating.

See also: Dead/ Death. [1]

The majority of primitive peoples understood abysses as various deep marine or terrestrial features. To the Celts, the abyss was found inside the mountain; in Ireland and Japan it was located at the bottom of the sea or lakes; and among the Mediterranean peoples it was beyond the horizon. Each individual has their own problems and own daily abyss (in which they occasionally fall victim to anxiety). Conflictive situations, if not addressed promptly, can become “abysmal.” Thus, this dream represents you are on the verge of something but you are afraid to take the plunge.

It is important to find out what that fear is about and why you feel so bad. When the abyss is dark it likely symbolizes your unknown Self.

If you are also anxious, you will not be pleased about what your feelings and hidden fears have to tell you. Dreams about abysses are often accompanied by vertigo. This vertigo can be physical if you are lying on the edge of the bed; emotional, when you are unable to control your feelings about others; existential, due to absence of goals that give your life meaning; or directly related to your circumstances, perhaps because you need to make a decision without knowing which option is best. In the latter case, it is advisable to take enough time and choose well, thus avoiding any type of precipitation.

Usually an abyss forecasts financial difficulties. You must be very careful with any deals being considered in the next few the days. According to ancient beliefs, this dream portends problems in love, work, or health.

It is recommended to be cautious. [2]

(See also: Alley, Bridge, Cauldron, Chalice, Cliff, Hole, Sky, Space)

Standing at the edge of: Your own subconscious, things you’ve long buried, hidden talents, or other matters that often get overlooked.

The abyss goes on seeminglv forever into darkness, and can be very frightening, even as discovering your own true nature can be frightening until you take the first step.

Experiencing spontaneous inspiration for a new project, as if it comes out of nowhere. Alternatively, a limitation to be overcome.

Ancient meaning: Tlie primordial womb; a deep cavern of fertility and the gate of life through which we all pass.

Real or perceived dangers.

The size of the abyss indicates how “big” you believe the hazard to be. Alternatively, following a route that goes nowhere, or one that may eventually prove self-destructive.

A bridge appearing across: Personal, dramatic changes in lifestyle or beliefs that imply some risk.

For example, if you’re thinking of getting married, the risk might be vulnerability- or failure.

Unseen or unrealized potential. In Greek mythology, the black abyss gave birth to all cosmic matter. Similarly, in the Tarot, the Fool stands near the edge of a huge cliff before starting on his path toward enlightenment. [3]

Take caution, you may be being warned of upcoming danger or loss in the near future. Read and reread before signing anything. Be especially attentive to any loopholes either written or verbal. Watch for any large potholes or the like when driving (or walking). Are you involved in a non-ending situation, relationship, etc.(or about to become involved in one)? You may receive an invitation or opportunity to experience adventure (possibly one with danger involved).

If the dreamer falls into one, a caution is being given not to get involved in something that will cause you misfortune. It could be of a personal nature.

If the dreamer does not fall, but explores into the abyss, it is an indication that unconscious/subconscious matters are trying to come to light to be released from the dreamer. They are seeking resolution and completion so peace may be gained in those areas. Also - This is an obstacle dream.

If you avoid the fall, you will overcome your difficulties; however, if you fall into the abyss, it is a warning that you must be extremely careful in your business dealings.  [4]

1- To dream of an abyss indicates the dreamer recognises within themselves the so-called bottomless pit or void. This is an aspect of the unknown which all of us must face at some time or another in our lives.

It is a risky action which must be taken without knowledge of what the outcome is going to be.

2- There is a fear of losing control, of a loss of identity, or of some type of failure. More positively, it is possible to go beyond our own boundaries or present experience.

Also the abyss indicates our coming to terms with oppositcs such as right or wrong, good and bad.

3- The Underworld, and inferior matters, appears in dreams as the abyss. [5]

An abyss is created when the structure of a particular area is so out of reach, there is no immediate discernible sense of measurable boundaries. This fills us with anything from terror and dread to an excited desire for exploration.

The bottomless pit of an abyss is a great symbol for the risks we must take in order to grow. When faced with an abyss in your dream, you have come to the edge of your known reality and are being asked to confront the unknown in a courageous way.

The abyss is a symbol of the depths of your unconscious, which often inspires fear or avoidance. [6]

To dream of looking into an abyss, means that you will be confronted by threats of seizure of property, and that there will be quarrels and reproaches of a personal nature which will unfit you to meet the problems of life.

For a woman to be looking into an abyss, foretells that she will burden herself with unwelcome cares.

If she falls into the abyss her disappointment will be complete; but if she succeeds in crossing, or avoiding it, she will reinstate herself. [7]

Psychological / emotional perspective: There is a fear of losing control, of a loss of identity, or of some type of failure. More positively, it is possible to go beyond our own boundaries or present experience. Also the abyss indicates our coming to terms with opposites such as right and wrong, good and bad.

To be on the edge of the abyss suggests having to come to terms with our own fears. [8]

The underworld, which contains ghosts, ghouls, demons and inferior matters, has been pictured so often as frightening that it often appears in dreams as the abyss. On a very profound level, the void or abyss is the unknowable, that part of the cosmos that is beyond our understanding. Considering the meaning of the void or abyss and exploring doubts and fears may help with interpretation of your dream. [9]
Dreams of an abyss represent that you are connecting with your deeper nature, going beyond the superficial to where your inner rivers run deep and you feel your connection with the soul of the world.

If you are afraid of this abyss, then this dream is assisting you to process your fears of your power, death, overwhelm, or inadequacy. [10]

Material aspects: To dream of an abyss indicates that you recognize within yourself the so-called bottomless pit or void. This is an aspect of the unknown which all of us must face at some time or another in our lives. It signifies risky action which must be taken without knowledge of what the outcome is going to be. [11]
An abyss can always be considered an obstacle.

If you can manage to keep from falling into one in your dreams, though it may look like you will, you will overcome your current problem. However, falling into the abyss, is a stern warning that you should be very careful, as there may be danger present in your business dealings. [12]

Often, an abyss is seen as a hurdle or something to overcome. Trying to avoid slipping into an abyss means you will overpower a current situation or problem. Tumbling into an abyss, on the other hand, can be viewed as a signal to use extreme care as trouble could arise in current business situations. [13]
Precipice. This dream usually appears when we are in crisis, or when a crisis has almost been overcome, making room for its deeper meaning. Difficulties in life, critical situations, require decisions. You are looking for help.

A challenge to look deeper inside, accepting your own deeper soul. [14]

To dream of any hollow space is a sign of difficulties ahead; it is an obstacle dream.

If you escape from the Abyss, you will overcome your troubles, but if you fall therein, then be careful in your business affairs. Do not lend money, for it will not be returned to you. [15]

1. A feeling of being lost, or with no way out of one’s life.

2. A project the dreamer is devoting time to isn’t worth it.

3. Danger coming from someone the dreamer is dealing with, such as a business contact.

4. Male fear of getting romantically involved. [16]

Confronting your own emptiness; you have cleaned out the negative but now need to put the positive direction in its place. Also, entering the unconscious to draw upon its power. Facing a fear you have run away from in the past; there is no time like now. [17]
A huge challenge, obstacle, or “unknown” in your life.

A fear.

Infinity or oblivion.

Something unfathomable or too “deep” to understand.

Feelings of overwhelm.

Depth of feelings, beliefs, etc.

See also: Canal, Valley [18]

This is an obstacle dream.

If you avoid the fall, you will overcome your difficulties; but if you fall into the abyss, it is a warning that you must be extremely careful in your business dealings. [19]

To dream that you fall into an abyss, denotes illness to yourself that you will lose the attention of your lover that your husband or wife is unfaithful that your friends will desert you. [20]
Impending danger, a dream of warning (Artemidorus); an erotic dream of warning (Freud); physiologists interpret this dream as a symptom of vertigo, due to apoplexy, etc. [21]
An abyss is a natural symbol of emptiness and meaninglessness. It can also represent the need to detach oneself from an overwhelming condition or relationship. [22]
Dreaming of an abyss or chasm represents feelings of emptiness and frustration. Something you have devoting time to is not worth the effort. [23]
Exercise caution for there is possible danger ahead.

An abyss can also mean an invitation—to adventure, opportunity... or danger. [24]

Looking into an abyss, but escaping from falling into it, is a portent of the successful solution of a difficult problem. [25]
lucky numbers: 03-10-16-18-52-55

escaping from an: your rigid system of beliefs has been dismantled.

falling into an: careful journey through treacherous transactions.

but not hurt: money lent wil not be returned; confront your own emptiness.

others: be circumspect in al your dealings; face the fear you had abandoned.

in general: an indefinable relief that your potential can be realized.

saving others from an: a relationship with yourself required before taking risky action.

oneself: keep eyes wide open to face your shadow. [26]

What Do You Think About This Dream?

Sources and Authors

  1. A Dictionary of Dream Symbols by Eric Ackroyd [Back to dream]
  2. The Big Dictionary of Dreams by Martha Clarke [Back to dream]
  3. The Language of Dreams by Patrica Telesco [Back to dream]
  4. The Bedside Dream Dictionary by Silvana Amar [Back to dream]
  5. Ten Thousand Dream Dictionary by Pamela Ball [Back to dream]
  6. Complete Dictionary of Dreams by Dr. Mıchael Lennox [Back to dream]
  7. Ten Thousand Dream Interpretation by Gustavus Hindman Miller [Back to dream]
  8. Dream Meanings of Versatile by Versatile - Anonymous [Back to dream]
  9. Dream Meanings of Versatile by Versatile - Anonymous [Back to dream]
  10. Strangest Dream Explanations by Dream Explanations - Anonymous [Back to dream]
  11. Dream Meanings of Versatile by Versatile - Anonymous [Back to dream]
  12. Encyclopedia of Dreams by Michael and Elizabeth Thiessen [Back to dream]
  13. Dream Symbols and Analysis by DreamForth [Back to dream]
  14. Little Giant Encyclopedia by Klaus Vollmar [Back to dream]
  15. Mystic Dream Book by Internet Archive - Anonymous [Back to dream]
  16. New American Dream Dictionary by Joan Seaman - Tom Philbin [Back to dream]
  17. The Dream Books Symbols by Betty Bethards [Back to dream]
  18. The Curious Dreamer’s Dream Dictionary by Nancy Wagaman [Back to dream]
  19. The Complete Guide to Interpreting Your Dreams by Stearn Robinson - Tom Corbett [Back to dream]
  20. The Mystic Dream Book by Stephen Girard [Back to dream]
  21. The Fabric of Dream by Katherine Taylor Craig [Back to dream]
  22. Dream Symbols in The Dream Encyclopedia by James R. Lewis and Evelyn Dorothy Oliver [Back to dream]
  23. My Dream Interpretation by myjellybean [Back to dream]
  24. Gypsy Dream Dictionary by Raymond Buckland [Back to dream]
  25. The Complete Dream Book by Gillian Holloway [Back to dream]
  26. Zolar’s Book of Dreams Numbers and Lucky Days by Zolar [Back to dream]

What does Abyss mean in a dream?


An abyss in a dream is considered an obstacle.If you don’t fall into the abyss in your dream, you will overcome any current problems. However, if you slip into the...

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Feeling overburdened, fear of the difficulties ahead. Descending into an abyss means paying attention to the unconscious, because that is where the reason for the present difficulties resides. Falling into...

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also see Abyss1- Many people talk about the pit of despair and of feeling trapped within a situation.A pit in a dream makes us more conscious of this particular feeling....

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A frequent symbol in dreams and mythology, the bridge spans an abyss.It is often a place of danger and of falling; you are crossing a boundary. In the Catholic faith,...

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Vision: Women often dream of Falling into the abyss. Falling off a precipice means that somewhere the “bottom is falling out.” People who meditate or have out-of-body experiences have a...

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Feelings about death, sex, the unconscious or the unknown.See abyss; valley.See also falling.

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Symbol: A bad fall into an abyss often brings an undcfinable feeling of relief.Vision: For a woman, dreaming about falling is a metaphor for letting herself go. Falling means that...

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If the deep, precipitous sides of a chasm or large hole threaten to engulf and swallow you up in a dream, or if an abyss suddenly opens up in front...

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In contrast to Parachute, this is unpleasant Falling, as in Abyss, and particularly as in Shooting.See Hiding Place, but this image also accesses layers of your character.

Learn more about the meaning of Trapdoor

A well can symbolize a form of contact with the depths – possibly the depths of emotion.It is also a symbol for the abyss, though perhaps less frightening. We can...

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This dream is rather negative because the presence of an octopus in your unconscious indicates that you experience strong temptations that can harm you. This situation can lead to the...

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The horizon was once considered to be the edge of the world and in dreams can still have that connotation, though now it is the boundary of the visible physical...

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The closest representation to infinity that can be experienced spiritually is the abyss or void. In dreams as we progress spiritually we can have a sense of limitlessness.

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1- To be on the brink of something in a dream literally means we are on the edge of something. This will have a profound effect on our lives or...

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In spiritual terms a black hole has the same connotation as the void or the abyss.

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Safety, security, or protection.Peacefulness.Fertility or lushness.Easy progress or passage to the next place or phase in your life.A lull in a process (as in experiencing “peaks and valleys”).See Bottom, Abyss,...

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Being subjected to changes, or Letting Go. Similar to Abyss, Brook / Stream, and sometimes Parachute, only in more playful terms.A wilted leaf means troubles.A green leaf means rejuvenation, fulfillment...

Learn more about the meaning of Leaf (of A Plant)

Depth Psychology: Looking up at a steep road ahead: great efforts on your pan will result in spiritual insight. Walking down a steep slope: your morals have gone “downhill.” The...

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(see Camel, Oasis, Sand) Spiritual dryness.A retreat to find and understand the sacred, as both Moses and Jesus did in the wilderness.If you are alone or lost in the desert,...

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(see Abyss, Dead End, Path)An unlit alley: Lurking potential for danger (see Darkness).Being mugged in an alley: Unanticipated misfortune that leaves you feeling violated or out of control (see Banking:...

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Vision: Sliding down a slope: expect unpleasant events; also possible defeat as a result of your own actions. Looking up a steep slope: you still have time to change your...

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According to the culture you come from, earrings could be indicative of certain social rank.But, this is also a dream that reflects the dreamer’s relationship with the image he projects...

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(see Abyss, Cliff, Underground)Freudian: A vaginal emblem.Jungian: The subconscious, or an opening to this realm. Aspects of the self that you’ve hidden or fear.Manholes represent pitfalls and traps that can...

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Psychological / emotional perspective: Hollowness can come across in a dream in several ways. We can be conscious that we are in a hollow state – reaching an understanding of...

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A dream which featured a gulf of water signifies a sudden sad parting; however, if you were in a boat on the gulf, or landed at a gulf port or...

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This is the world of instincts and physical perceptions. As in Abyss, Cliff, Diving, we are talking here about delving into the unconscious. This image often points to the world...

Learn more about the meaning of Descent

(See Black, Blindness, Night) Mysteries, the unknown, hidden matters, elusive truths, and the subconscious. Oppressive darkness: Depression, gloom, or despair. Being lost in: Frustration from the lack of di rection,...

Learn more about the meaning of Darkness

To see a fish in the water indicates the dreamer is likely to receive unexpected favors.A dead fish warns of losses.The fish is a symbol of life, so, if the...

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(see Astronaut, Meteorite, Planets, Sky, Stars, UFO)An abyss that seems vast and untouchable, but one that the wonders of human technology are slowly making accessible. What new parts of yourself...

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(see Abyss, Basket, Cauldron, Chalice)Womanhood. In ancient Egypt, a symbol of the divine feminine principle and womb of origination.Generative force and creativity. Babylonians regarded the cosmos as the mixing bowl...

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A canal, ditch, or other water channel can represent: A context in which events happen or a process moves forward (since a canal is a channel through which water progresses...

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See Shot, Funeral, Corpse. Warning: A very important part of your emotions have been severed: unused talents, relationships to other people, the ability to love, and so on. These are...

Learn more about the meaning of Murder / Murderer

(see Clouds, Disasters, Fire, Rain, Storms)A phallic symbol. In ancient legends, lightning fertilized the womb of the abyss to begin creation.Destruction and ruin.The Tarot cards depict a tower being torn...

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(see Abyss, Basket, Bowl, Chalice, Circle, Forge, Water)The symbol of the triune, primordial Goddess and birth giver (because of its shape and having three legs).Fertility, femininity, and procreativity.Magical power. In...

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See Ladder, Stairs. Emotional changes, and the degree of those changes is expressed here. Caution, remaining aware of reality.If the lift is moving up fast—advancement, high hopes.If the elevator is...

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(see also Abyss)(1) Images of hell may be seen as depicting the fearsomeness of the unconscious. The fires of hell are those forces of the unconscious that seem to be...

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Dreams often represent learning as an organic pro­cess. Ideas are taken in, digested, then form pan of an organic whole in an integrated system. Seeing something absorbed in a dream...

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Your own nature, the archetypal feminine— life-giving, nurturing, devouring, protecting, that which is fruitful and fertile. When the mother in the dream is your real mother, it points to a...

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lucky numbers: 06-14-16-20-35-38clouds, in the: overcompensation for lack of sexual experience. free: an incentive to put others in your place. high altitude, at a: are too conceited to dominate others...

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Something has come to an end, has been completely dissolved. Ashes often signify weakness, the loss of vitality, and act as a reminder to enjoy life and have fun. Symbol...

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Fear in dreams reflects a latent state of anxiety. Insecurity, fears, and concerns are taking a worrying toll on you. First, to interpret such dreams properly, you must analyze the...

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(see Abyss, Basket, Beverages by type, Bowl, Circle, Cauldron)Alternative womb and fertility symbol, especially if filled with liquid (see Milk, Juice, Water, Wine).Arthurian and Druidical lore identify this emblem as...

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The earthquake is part of a general sense of total catastrophe: it is a sudden mutation that can cause havoc, but it can also—in the symbolical plane —be beneficial. Given...

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(see Abyss, Balloon, Basket, Bowl, Cauldron, Chalice, Coins, Satellite Dish, Zero)Wholeness, totality, centering. Halos, for example, symbolize spiritual wholeness and focus (see Light).Freudian: A vaginal emblem or symbol of femininity...

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(see Abyss, Bridge, Cage, Cliff, Dam, Gate, Hole)Traffic jams (see Car): Taking a direction perceived as free from trouble, only to find the way blocked for some unknown reason. Usually...

Learn more about the meaning of Obstacles

(see Crystals, Excavation, Gems, Jewelry, Mine, Minerals)The central self; the core of your being.Being hard-hearted or having a stony disposition.A place of origin; beginnings with foundation. Ancient beliefs contended that...

Learn more about the meaning of Stones

Greece Antiphon, a Greek living in the fourth century bc. wrote the first known descriptive book of dreams. It was designed to be used for practical and profes­sional interpretations. He...

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(see Flood, Fountain, Ice, River, Rain, Snow)Changing tides: Among the Teutonic people, each tide carried different meanings that may apply to your dream.The tide occurring just before sunup is one...

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The symbols of death or the fear of death can be: sunset; evening; a crossed river or falling in a river, a skeleton; snarling dogs; sleep; anaesthetic; gravestones; ceme­tery; blackness,...

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(1) If your brother or sister appears in a dream you have to decide whether the dream is saying something about your actual brother or sister and your relationship with...

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A to Z Dream Interpretation