| Angels
Jacob wrestled the angel,
and the angel was overcome.
The word 'angel' literally means 'messenger.' Often, delivery of a particular message in the dream is the role filled by these beings. As the needs arise, they may provide additional help to the dreamer beyond simply delivering information. Since so many religions and contemporary worldviews have made room for angels in their understanding of the universe, this topic needs to be broken down a little more. The philosopher Carl Jung had room in his worldview for 'spirit guides'. These were apparitions that shared both knowledge and insight. This insight came as dialogue. Consequently, the Jungian angel was something of a spiritual mentor. Religious angels have usually served more as ambassadors. They come with specific information, but not much dialogue. They are dispatched for specific purposes. Revelation, not dialogue, is the mission of the angel in this context. Beginning with popular literature of the 1970s, angels have become more involved with tangible needs of this world. Tyres are repaired, oncoming traffic is diverted, and rickety homes are preserved from the weather by angels. This seems to be a reflection on the growing interest in finding a reliable help in a malevolent world. Angels have also become, in a sense, the sort of instant wish-granter. Some people dream of angels helping them in this way. In this sort of case, you may be turning toward an actual friend in real life to give you something. Many angels in dreams represent help from an unknown and unseeable origin to survive a difficult situation. You are turning out into the unknown, expecting help from beyond your actual means. This could be called 'wish-projection.' Finally, the angel may be what the name implies: a message. To discern which type of angel you have in your dreams requires some energy. Does your worldview include the possibility of such beings? If not, your angel may be wish-projection. Did your angel speak or act mysteriously? If the angel spoke, what was the content? If the angel merely acted, what was the nature of the action? What area of your life seems to need a special solution that exceeds your resources? Do you feel emotionally unsupported in one of your personal quests or spiritual struggles? See also Death and Magical powers |