Briefly

As the creators and interpreters of symbolism, humans themselves symbolize many concepts that are fundamental to our shared existence, including intelligence, adaptability, and the capability for complex emotion. The human form often represents the self in a general or universal sense, embodying the collective traits and experiences of humanity.

  • Symbolism: Intelligence, adaptability, self, collective human traits and experiences.

Human in Dreams

From a psychological perspective, dreaming of humans (whether known or unknown to the dreamer) often centers on relationships, communication, and aspects of the self. These dreams typically explore the dreamer’s interactions with others and their perceptions of themselves. Dreaming of unknown humans might represent parts of the dreamer’s personality that they are not consciously aware of, while known humans in dreams often reflect the dreamer’s relationships and emotional connections with those individuals.

  • Symbolism: Relationships, communication, aspects of self, unconscious elements of personality, emotional connections.

See also our Free Dream Interpretation Tool

Human in Myths and Folklore

In myths and folklore, humans often symbolize the imperfections and potential of existence. Many ancient Greek myths, for instance, hold humans as both flawed and capable of great achievements. In other folklores, such as Native American stories, humans are often the learners, demonstrating the process of understanding and gaining wisdom. While in African folktales, humans are often portrayed as creative problem solvers, symbolizing the power of ingenuity and adaptability.

In Norse mythology, humans were said to be created from the bodies of a slain giant, symbolizing humanity’s connection to the earth and nature, as well as their potential for both destructiveness and creation. Therefore, human symbolism in myths and folklore holds multifaceted meanings, reflecting the various aspects and potential of human nature.

  • Symbolism: Imperfections, potential, learning, wisdom, creativity, ingenuity, adaptability, connection to earth, destructiveness, creation.

Human Spiritual Meanings

In a spiritual context, the human symbol often represents the spiritual journey and the potential for enlightenment. It signifies the divine within the self, the capacity for transcendence and transformation. The human form is also seen as a vessel for the soul, emphasizing the balance between the physical and the spiritual.

  • Symbolism: Spiritual journey, enlightenment, divinity, transcendence, transformation, vessel for the soul, balance of physical and spiritual.

Human Tattoo Meaning

A human tattoo often symbolizes individuality and personal identity. It can represent the wearer’s concept of humanity, emphasizing traits such as resilience, strength, and compassion. A tattoo of a specific human figure might also signify a personal connection or respect for that individual.

  • Symbolism: Individuality, personal identity, resilience, strength, compassion, personal connection, respect.
Alexander Lys

Reviewed by Alexander Lys, M.L., a specialist in the field of symbolism research and dream psychology. A certified participant in numerous psychological seminars and courses, the author of hundreds of articles on psychology, including studies on symbolism in dreams and myths from a scientific perspective.

Symbolopedia

Encyclopedia of Symbols

About the Author

Symbolopedia is a comprehensive guide to the meanings of symbols. Our content is crafted by professionals in psychology and symbolism, striving to maintain a balance between scientifically proven data and insights derived from myths, legends, and folklore. While our approach leans towards scientific interpretations of symbols, we acknowledge the significant role of the subconscious in their understanding, allowing for a blend of rationality and creativity.

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