The Spiritual Perspective of Sex in Dreams

A person sleeping and dreaming

The world of Dreams is vast.  From a biblical standpoint, God speaks to us in dreams though we may not know Him or understand it.  

“For God speaks in one way, and in two, though man does not perceive it. In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on men, while they slumber on their beds,”  - ‭‭Job‬ ‭33‬:‭14‬-‭15‬ ‭ESV‬‬

To the majority of people, Dreams are merely philosophical. 

But whether biblical or philosophical, Dreams are powerful and serve as a gateway to the subconscious mind, reflecting desires, fears, unresolved emotions, and even spiritual insights. 

When sex appears in dreams, it can carry profound symbolic and spiritual meanings beyond the surface-level interpretation of physical intimacy. Below are some potential spiritual interpretations of such dreams:

1. A Symbol of Unity and Wholeness

From a spiritual perspective, sex in dreams may symbolize the union of opposites within oneself. It can represent the integration of masculine and feminine energies (often referred to as the yin and yang), leading to a sense of inner wholeness. This dream could suggest a call to balance aspects of your personality, such as logic and intuition, action and reflection, or assertiveness and compassion.

For example, dreaming about sex with someone you admire may symbolize an attempt to merge their qualities into your own life.

2. The Desire for Intimacy and Connection

Sexual dreams may reflect a deeper longing for intimacy—emotionally, spiritually, or physically. This may not always relate to a literal person but rather a yearning for a stronger connection with oneself, others, or even with God.

If the dream involves a partner you don’t recognize, it could represent your spiritual self or a reminder to deepen your relationship with your Creator, seeking love and acceptance on a higher plane.

3. Spiritual Vulnerability or Temptation

From a spiritual lens, sex in dreams can also act as a warning sign of vulnerability to temptation. If the dream involves someone inappropriate or the act feels immoral, it might highlight internal struggles with lust, guilt, or boundaries.

Spiritually, such dreams may call for self-examination, repentance, and a renewal of moral or spiritual commitments. In Christian teachings, for instance, sexual immorality is considered a significant area where believers are encouraged to exercise discipline.

4. A Release of Repressed Energies

Sexual dreams can sometimes indicate repressed desires or energies seeking expression. Spiritually, this may symbolize a need to free oneself from emotional or energetic blockages that hinder spiritual growth. This could be a call to acknowledge hidden parts of yourself and seek healing.

For instance, dreaming about an ex-lover may signify unresolved emotions or lessons tied to that person, urging you to release past attachments.

5. Spiritual Covenant or Warning of Soul Ties

In some spiritual traditions, sex in dreams may signify the formation of spiritual bonds or soul ties, especially if the dream involves a recurring partner. These ties are believed to connect people on a spiritual level, influencing emotions, thoughts, and actions.

If the dream feels unsettling, it might symbolize the need to break free from unhealthy attachments or influences in your waking life through prayer, meditation, or spiritual deliverance.

Practical Steps for Understanding Your Dream

1. Examine Your Feelings in the Dream:

Was the dream peaceful, confusing, or distressing? Your emotions can provide clues about the dream’s message.

2. Reflect on Your Waking Life:

Is there an area in your life where you feel disconnected, vulnerable, or in need of balance?

3. Seek Spiritual Guidance:

Through prayer, meditation, or consulting a trusted spiritual leader, you can gain clarity on the dream’s deeper meaning.

4. Be Mindful of Patterns:

Recurring dreams of a similar nature may suggest an unresolved issue or a spiritual lesson that needs attention.

Of Incubus and Succubus:  Dreams and Spiritual Warfare  

What is an Incubus and a Succubus?

Incubus

An incubus is a male demonic entity that is said to visit people (typically women) in their sleep to engage in sexual activity. According to folklore, an incubus drains the life force or spiritual energy of its victim, leaving them feeling exhausted, oppressed, or spiritually burdened.

Succubus

The succubus is the female counterpart, believed to seduce men in their dreams. Like the incubus, it is said to sap the victim’s energy, potentially leaving emotional, physical, or spiritual distress in its wake.

Historical and Spiritual Context

Folklore and Mythology:

These entities appear in various cultures and religions. In medieval European folklore, incubi and succubi were often blamed for unexplainable sleep disturbances, sexual dreams, or feelings of paralysis at night (what we now recognize as sleep paralysis).

Christian Beliefs:

In Christian teachings, these entities are sometimes viewed as manifestations of demonic oppression. They are believed to exploit vulnerabilities, including unresolved sin, fear, or a lack of spiritual protection.

Modern Psychological Interpretation:

Some scholars suggest that experiences attributed to incubi or succubi might result from sleep paralysis or subconscious processing of suppressed desires, fears, or traumas.

Signs Often Attributed to Encounters with Incubi or Succubi

  1. Sleep paralysis combined with a feeling of a “presence” in the room.
  2. Vivid, sexual dreams that feel disturbingly real.
  3. Unexplained exhaustion or feelings of spiritual heaviness upon waking.
  4. A recurring pattern of dreams involving the same entity or type of encounter.

Spiritual Perspective and Response

It’s best to take actionable steps on waking up. Journaling is also advisable to keep note of frequency and who you met, hanged out with, or spoke to the previous day/night. This will often give you a clue. But most importantly,

1. Prayer and Deliverance

For those who believe in the spiritual realm, prayer is seen as a powerful tool for protection. Specifically, renouncing any ties or permissions (intentional or unintentional) is crucial.

Example: “In the name of Jesus, I break any spiritual bond or access given to demonic forces. I claim peace, protection, and freedom over my life.”

2. Spiritual Cleansing

Some faith traditions recommend purifying one’s environment, such as removing objects or habits that might invite spiritual interference (e.g., occult items, unhealthy media, pornography).

3. Seek Guidance

Consulting with a spiritual leader or counselor can provide clarity and support, especially if these encounters feel recurrent or oppressive.

4. Address Underlying Issues

If the experiences stem from emotional or psychological trauma, therapy can help in resolving deep-seated fears or desires that may manifest in such dreams.

Key Takeaway

The incubus and succubus are powerful symbols in folklore and spiritual traditions, often interpreted as either metaphors for inner struggles or real spiritual entities. Whether viewed through a spiritual or psychological lens, such experiences highlight the importance of maintaining mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Conclusion

Sex in dreams can hold layered meanings, depending on the context, emotions, and spiritual beliefs of the dreamer. It may represent unity, a desire for connection, a need for spiritual growth, or a call to confront temptations and attachments. Viewing these dreams through a spiritual lens can help you uncover valuable insights about your inner life and guide you toward greater self-awareness and alignment with your spiritual path.

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