Amputation of self
Amputation of self in a dream state is not unusual. Many people find themselves acquiring different forms of handicaps in dreams. Often, these can be associated with perceived physical weaknesses or self-destructive psychological patterns. To understand these dreams, think about the reason for the amputation, the method and the manner of anxiety it causes. The resulting inconvenience or further liberation in the dream is also important. Does the amputation mean you can no longer do things you enjoy doing or does it mean you suddenly feel unencumbered? Also, you should give consideration to the role of the amputated body part in waking life. For example, amputated legs might point to feelings that you are 'going nowhere' in your life.

Amputation can also have a religious, moral, or ethical connotation pertaining to behaviour. Followers of some sects view their bodies as their own worst enemies in terms of the ability to adhere to particular social or religious codes. Some Christians, for example, believe the words of Jesus when he stated that it was better to chop off one's own hand and enter Heaven than to send the body to condemnation intact. Many people, from a variety of faiths and other guilt structures, carry that sort of imagery in their subconscious.

Amputation of others
Understanding the amputation of another's limbs in your dreams is very much dependent on their relationship to you. Amputation of a loved one's limbs may show an area where you feel violated by that person. Also consider the effect the amputation has on the other person.

Amputation of a co-worker may demonstrate a desire to handicap him or her for your benefit. Amputation of a limb that grows back readily could reflect a sense that no bad thing ever seems to beset that co-worker or adversary.

Amputation of a stranger most likely represents some sort of uneasiness you may be feeling toward the mass of humanity you deal with daily.

See also Loss of a Sensory Ability or Motor Ability and Pain