Dream Symbol:
Lid
Carl Jung's Interpretation:
Carl Jung, being the vanguard of analytical psychology, perceived dreams as the language of the unconscious. Within this enigmatic symbol -- 'Lid', he would view it as a manifestation of the principle of containment and protection. A 'lid' is a direct symbol of a barrier that you put in front of your psyche, signifying repression or suppression of emotions and ideas. Jung might elaborate that this is a sign of hidden aspects of the self, the 'shadow' in his terminology, and it could manifest in dreams as an indication of our self-limiting thoughts or unexplored potentials.
James Hillman's Interpretation:
From the perspective of James Hillman, a pioneer of Archetypal Psychology, the 'lid' could represent a symbol of limitation and constriction. However, Hillman would differ from Jung by emphasizing on the 'soul-making' aspect. The lid, in this sense, can be seen as a means of creating an intimate inner space. It's not just about repressing or keeping emotions inside, but rather preserving what's valuable and meaningful. The 'lid' creates a necessary boundary, protecting the psychic life within us from external influences.
Classical Interpretation:
Historically, lids in dreams are symbols of concealment and protection. The act of lifting a 'lid' symbolizes revealing what is hidden, while putting a lid, is indicative of putting away or securing something. They also signal a sense of closure, or finality.
Ancient Greek Interpretation:
In a Greek context, a 'Lid', or 'Epidexia', symbolized sealed prophecies and unbroken promises, illustrating the guarded secrets and mysteries. It is related to safety and protection, maintaining balance by protecting us from elements that may be harmful.
Morphology:
A 'lid' is a cover for a container. In our human experience, a lid controls access - it controls and protects what is inside, restricting what goes in and out. Morphologically, a lid indicates a barrier or limitation, but also a protector of contents and keeper of secrets.
Similar Symbols
- door
- gate
- shield
- roof
- box
Opposite Symbols
- open container
- portal
- keyhole
- unlock
- uncover
Curious what your dreams mean? Explore other Dream Symbols