Water
Traditional meaning and context
The received Zhougong dream manual treats clear expanses of water and being at ease in water as favourable images. It gives a different reading when someone falls in and cannot get out. The Liezi, by contrast, discusses water dreams through ancient bodily theories. These are different traditional approaches, rather than a universal water-equals-wealth formula.
A clear expanse of water
The manual calls this highly auspicious; clarity is part of the entry.
Being at ease in the water
This is also given a favourable reading, in contrast to an entry about falling in and not emerging.
These are historical omen associations, not evidence of what will happen to you or your family.
MingSez’s reading
We read water through your position in the scene: watching it, moving through it or being carried by it. Those differences can bring attention to ease, effort or control. A familiar place or recent experience may be more relevant than a general symbol.
How the scene changes the meaning
You choose to swim and feel at ease.
Choice and comfort are the important features. Consider what felt familiar or enjoyable rather than imposing a threat reading.
You watch moving water from a safe bank.
The scene gives you distance and a place to observe. Notice whether you wanted to enter or preferred to stay where you were.
A question to take with you: Were you watching the water, choosing a route through it, or being moved by it?
Sources and related reading
- Received Zhougong Jiemeng: traditional dream readings
Wikisource revision 7907671. Underlying print edition unidentified; the traditional title does not establish authorship by the Duke of Zhou. Water, Fire, Thieves and Lamps: clear water; ease in water; falling in without emerging.
- Liezi, King Mu of Zhou
Passage on strong yin and fearfully entering great water; later passage on a drowning dream. See the water reading for the original wording.