An enemy
Last updated: · Pedram Dadgar
Psychological (Freud)
An enemy in a dream often embodies a rejected, repressed part of the self that one fights in another. What we fear or hate in him may mirror the very drives and traits we refuse to grant ourselves.
Oriental reading
By Oriental reading an enemy heralds, depending on the dream's outcome, either an approaching conflict or, if one prevails over him, one's own triumph and the end of a worry. Reconciling with an enemy is widely taken as a sign of peace and relief.
European folk (dream-book)
By old folk belief an enemy in a dream warns of a secret adversary, or of slander being spun against you in the dark. Yet should you overcome him, the dream-book promises victory over your worry and the silencing of evil tongues; and should you clasp his hand, an unhoped-for reconciliation is foretold.
Common dream scenarios
Defeating an enemy
Defeating an enemy in a dream is traditionally a highly favorable sign: you will overcome a conflict or obstacle in waking life. Psychologically you reconcile with an inner adversary and reclaim energy that was bound up in the struggle. The victory points to growing self-confidence.
Reconciling with an enemy
Reconciling with an enemy in a dream announces the end of a quarrel and the return of peace. Psychologically you re-accept a long-rejected part of yourself and become more whole within. Traditionally it promises reconciliation, often with a real person who had grown distant.
Being chased by an enemy
Being chased by an enemy mirrors an unresolved conflict or worry you are avoiding in waking life. Psychologically a repressed feeling — anger, guilt or fear — is pursuing you, growing more persistent the more you flee. Traditionally the dream urges you to finally face the problem.
An enemy who becomes a friend
When an enemy becomes a friend in a dream, it points to a surprising turn: an opponent or rival may prove to be an ally. Psychologically you integrate a shadow side you once fought and gain its hidden strength. A hopeful sign of growth and maturity.
People
Dream interpretation is for self-reflection and entertainment — it is not a medical or psychological diagnosis.