Islamic Interpretation
Swimming in a dream generally symbolizes involvement with authority, struggle, trials, or major undertakings, and its interpretation varies according to the dreamer’s condition and the manner of swimming. If a man of knowledge sees himself swimming in the ocean, it signifies that he will reach his goals and attain what he seeks in knowledge or status. However, if he enters the sea and then returns to the shore, it indicates that he will begin the pursuit of knowledge but later abandon it. Swimming in a dream may also represent imprisonment. Swimming on sand denotes incarceration under harsh and restrictive conditions, where the hardship suffered in prison corresponds to the difficulty experienced during the swim. If one sees himself swimming inside his own house, it means that he will work for a cruel, unjust, and oppressive employer who will entangle him through a binding business arrangement. Nevertheless, God Almighty will ultimately grant him relief and free him from such entrapment. Fear of swimming in a dream reflects fear of a person in authority. Running away from swimming signifies escaping from that authority. Successfully entering waters and swimming with ease denotes undertaking a major enterprise, leading an important task, or acquiring authority and power. Swimming on one’s back symbolizes repentance from sin. Swimming in stagnant sea water indicates serving someone in authority whose service brings nothing but distress and anger. If the dreamer crosses the sea despite this, it means he will escape the harm associated with such service. Swimming with fear signifies troubles, imprisonment, or illness, proportionate to the effort and distance involved. If the dreamer believes he will not survive the swim, it indicates death. Showing courage during the swim means escaping danger and harmful obligations. Troubled or agitated waters represent adversities and trials. Successfully crossing such waters signifies overcoming hardships. All large bodies of water—seas, rivers, lakes, ponds, or swamps—symbolize the state or ruling authority. Drowning in a river or lake indicates severe trials. If the dreamer is rescued before waking, it means triumph over adversity; if he dies in the dream, it may signify death as a result of those trials. Being saved by a ship or holding onto one symbolizes deliverance from danger. Drowning may also indicate martyrdom, even if the dreamer previously committed many sins. Walking on water in a dream signifies strong faith, spiritual elevation, steadfastness in religion, and reliance upon God Almighty. It may also indicate certainty after doubt or placing one’s trust in God before undertaking a perilous journey. (Also see Air)