How
to Interpret Dreams according to Zhou Gong: A Brief Overview Dreams have plagued and fascinated humanity since time immemorial. Ancient Greeks and Romans, for instance, believed that dreams were prophetic or divine messages, while contemporary psychologists see them as expressions of the unconscious mind. In China, dreams have been intricately woven into the fabric of society, with Zhou Gong, or Duke of Zhou, being considered as one of the most influential dream interpreters in Chinese history. Zhou Gong, also known as Ji Dan, was a key figure during the Zhou Dynasty (1045-256 BCE) in China. He is credited with having compiled the first systematic dream dictionary, entitled "Zhou Gong's Interpretation of Dreams," which is still considered a valuable reference for dream interpretation in Chinese culture today. According to Zhou Gong's dream dictionary, dreams are categorized into five different types: ordinary, auspicious, inauspicious, ominous, and hybrid. Each type of dream has a specific meaning and interpretation. For instance, an ordinary dream is said to reflect the dreamer's current life circumstances, while an auspicious dream is an omen of good luck. In contrast, an inauspicious dream is a warning of danger or difficulties ahead, while an ominous dream predicts disaster. A hybrid dream, as the name suggests, is a combination of two or more types of dreams and can be more complex to interpret. Zhou Gong's dream dictionary also identifies various dream symbols and their corresponding interpretations. For instance, dreaming of a phoenix is an auspicious sign, symbolizing fame and fortune, while dreaming of a tiger represents danger and obstacles. Similarly, a dream of falling is often interpreted as a warning of a current or future problem, while a dream of flying represents a sense of freedom or transcendence. In conclusion, while contemporary scientists have not fully understood the complexities and purpose of dreams, Zhou Gong's dream dictionary offers valuable insights into the symbolic language of dreams in Chinese culture. Studying and interpreting dreams in accordance with Zhou Gong's dictionary can be a fascinating and enriching experience, providing a window into the deeper workings of the human mind and psyche.