What Does It Mean to Dream of a Monkey?

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Discover the spiritual significance of different monkey dreams

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Monkey Dream Meaning

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Spiritual Meaning

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Are monkey dreams good or bad?

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Dream Scenarios

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Interpretations by Monkey Color

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Cultural Meanings

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Expert Interview

Monkeys are often used as metaphors to depict human behavior, so dreaming of a monkey may reveal important insights about your personality. In this article, we’ll explain the symbolism and spiritual meaning behind your monkey dreams, including interpretations of common dream scenarios. Whether a monkey is chasing you, imitating you, or swinging from tree to tree, here’s why you keep dreaming about this highly intelligent primate.

Things You Should Know

Dreaming about a monkey can be a sign to incorporate more fun, playfulness, and excitement into your life.
Spiritually, monkey dreams may be a sign to practice mindfulness and seek spiritual growth.
If the monkey in your dream is violent, it could represent suppressed emotions or negative behaviors in your waking life.

Section 1 of 6:

What do monkey dreams symbolize?

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Playfulness, innocence, and primal instincts Dreaming of a monkey is usually a sign to incorporate more fun and excitement into your life, but monkeys can also symbolize human behavior or childlike innocence. Depending on the events in waking life and the details of your dream, the monkey could represent:^{[1]XResearch source}
- Fun
- Mischief
- Imitation
- Curiosity
- Distraction
- New beginnings
- The shadow self
- Chaos & disorder
- Child-like innocence
- Primal instincts and desires

Section 2 of 6:

What do monkey dreams mean spiritually?

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Mindfulness and spiritual growth Monkeys are believed to be spiritual messengers in some cultures, serving as a link between the material and heavenly realm. Dreaming of a monkey could be a sign to practice mindfulness and seek spiritual growth—pray, meditate, attend religious services, explore nature, volunteer, or start a gratitude journal.^{[2]XResearch source}
- In Christianity: Monkeys symbolize base instincts like greed, lust, and malice, and they’re even known to represent the devil.^{[3]XResearch source}

Section 3 of 6:

Is it good or bad to dream about a monkey?

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It depends on what the monkey is doing in your dreams. Psychologically, dreams tell you things your conscious mind doesn’t pick up on, revealing your innermost thoughts and desires. Monkeys are said to represent your shadow self, or the darker parts of your personality you wish to hide.
- If the monkey was angry or destructive, it could be a warning to watch out for these qualities in your waking life.^{[4]XResearch source}
- If the monkey behaved positively, it could symbolize your inner strengths and skills.

Section 4 of 6:

Dream Interpretations by Scenario

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1
A monkey chasing you If you’re running away from a monkey in your dream, it could mean you’re afraid of someone (or something). You might be avoiding them because you feel insecure or vulnerable, or because you don’t have any control over the situation.^{[5]XResearch source}
- What to do: Face your fears and tackle your problems head on! If you decide to confront someone, be open and honest with them, and practice the conversation beforehand with a trusted friend.
2
A monkey attacking you Whether you’re scratched, bitten, or slapped, this scary dream scenario symbolizes suppressed anger in your waking life. Someone might be bothering you repeatedly and making it hard to get a grip on your emotions. Whereas, an attack by a particularly violent monkey can represent fear or anxiety over a specific situation.^{[6]XResearch source}
- What to do: Control your temper by exercising, doing deep breathing exercises, recognizing (and avoiding) your triggers, and removing yourself from the situation if possible.
3
A monkey sitting on a branch Since monkeys can run around the trees with ease, sitting monkeys are said to symbolize negative emotional states. If you dream of a monkey sitting on a branch, you might be feeling stressed or overwhelmed by your responsibilities in reality, reaching the brink of an emotional breakdown.^{[7]XResearch source}
- What to do: Break down large tasks into smaller ones to make them more manageable, and engage in relaxing activities to relieve stress—read, take a bath, walk outside, drink herbal tea, practice yoga, or watch a silly YouTube video.
4
A monkey eating a banana If you see a monkey eating his favorite fruit, it could be a sign of unexpected wealth or success.^{[8]XResearch source}
- What to do: Keep track of your finances and save wisely to create financial stability. Setting a monthly budget is a great place to start, but you may want to look for ways to create passive streams of income.
5
A monkey swinging from trees If you dream of a monkey swinging from one branch to another, it could mean you’re running away from your problems and not holding yourself accountable for your actions. You might be blaming others for your choices, instead of taking the driver’s seat in your life.^{[9]XResearch source}
- What to do: Take responsibility for your actions by thinking through your feelings before reacting and viewing every decision as a learning experience.
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A monkey climbing a tree Some people see monkeys as troublemakers, so seeing one climb a tree could mean someone is trying to stir up trouble in your life. This person might be a close friend or family member who secretly wants to humiliate you, so pay attention to those in your inner circle.^{[10]XResearch source}
- What to do: Follow your intuition to see if certain people are worth keeping around. If you feel drained, guilty, or used after hanging out with someone, they might not have the best intentions for you.
7
A monkey flying in the sky A flying monkey is said to symbolize your goals and ambitions, so this dream scenario could be a sign that you’re on the right path to success.^{[11]XResearch source} As long as you work hard, believe in yourself, and expand your horizons, you can achieve anything you set your mind to!
- What to do: Build a positive thinking mindset and let go of any self-limiting beliefs. Once you recognize your inner strength, you’ll become more motivated and fulfilled.
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A monkey imitating you Monkeys imitate each other to communicate and build social connections.^{[12]XResearch source} So, this dream scenario could be a reminder to show off your playful side! By having fun, you can live life to the fullest and attract more positive and lively people.^{[13]XResearch source}
- What to do: Embrace your inner child to bring more joy into your life—draw, paint, play board games, host a dance party, throw a sleepover, and crack jokes often.
9
Seeing a caged monkey This solemn dream scenario suggests you feel trapped in reality. You might feel confined by a certain aspect in your personal or professional life, such as feeling held back by your partner or feeling stagnant in your career.^{[14]XResearch source}
- What to do: Identify areas that you can change to take control of your life, and list the pros and cons for your situation before making any major decisions. Once you decide to make a change, give yourself a deadline to complete your goals to hold yourself accountable.
10
Seeing a baby monkey The arrival of a baby introduces hope and happiness into a family, so dreaming of a baby monkey may symbolize a fresh start. If you’ve been feeling stuck in your personal or professional life, this dream scenario could be a sign to take action and step out of your comfort zone.^{[15]XResearch source}
- What to do: Seek new experiences and take risks gradually by making small changes in your life—chat to strangers, start a new routine, or take on more responsibilities at work.
11
Seeing a dead monkey While this dream scenario might be alarming, it’s actually a positive sign to approach life with confidence. The universe is reminding you that you have all the tools to create your dream reality and let go of the things that no longer serve you.^{[16]XResearch source}
- What to do: Jot down your goals in a journal, using clear, precise, and positive wording. Repeat them aloud every day, and make a vision board to manifest your ideal future.
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Seeing a group of monkeys If you’re surrounded by lots of monkeys, your dream suggests you have a deep connection to the outside world. You probably enjoy being active and observing your surroundings, so consider this dream a sign to reconnect with Mother Nature.^{[17]XResearch source}
- What to do: Take time off to enjoy the great outdoors—go camping, bird watching, biking, shell collecting, horseback riding, snowboarding, or simply walk around your neighborhood.
13
Playing with a monkey In dreams, playing with a monkey is a positive omen of prosperity. Good things are heading your way, and if you’ve been praying for a raise, promotion, or any other exciting opportunity, it might be closer than you think!^{[18]XResearch source}
- What to do: Set achievable goals to position yourself for success and make your own luck.
14
Torturing a monkey This disturbing dream scenario might mean you’re projecting a negative attitude toward your family.^{[19]XResearch source} Even if you aren’t close to certain relatives, keep in mind that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect.
- What to do: Improve communication with your family members by actively listening to them and expressing appreciation often. Even if you disagree about certain topics, don’t dismiss or interrupt someone before they finish speaking.
15
Killing a monkey Dreams about killing animals are usually symbolic, so the monkey in your dream may represent something that’s stressing you out or standing in your way. Killing the monkey could be a sign that you’re able to overcome obstacles and outsmart anyone who tries to take advantage of you.^{[20]XResearch source}
- What to do: Think of all the possible solutions when you’re faced with a dilemma, and reach out to trusted friends and family members if you need advice, support, or a fresh perspective.

Section 5 of 6:

Dream Interpretations by Monkey Color

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- A white monkey could be a good omen for your professional life—you might receive a job offer or promotion soon!^{[21]XResearch source}
- A black monkey may be a reflection of your shadow self (the parts of your personality you hide from others), or it could be a sign to look out for toxic friends.
- A brown monkey may represent stability, reliability, or practicality since monkeys are considered quite resourceful.
- A pink monkey is said to symbolize love, compassion, nurture, and playfulness. If it’s hurt or injured in your dream, it may symbolize vulnerability and weakness.
- A red monkey might represent passion, aggression, or potential danger, but if it’s calm during your dream, it can represent harmony and balance.
- An orange monkey is usually a sign to tap into your creative side and express yourself, but if it’s causing trouble in your dream, it could serve as encouragement to let loose.
- A green monkey could represent growth and new beginnings, but if it’s acting mischievous in your dream, it can represent drama and jealousy.
- A blue monkey may symbolize sadness or depression, but if it’s acting playful in your dream, it indicates a more positive emotional state.

Section 6 of 6:

Cultural Interpretations of a Monkey Dream

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As one of the 12 animal zodiac signs, people born in the year of the Monkey are said to be curious, intelligent and innovative.^{[22]XResearch source}
The monkey symbolizes wisdom, restraint, and skill in Japan, and it’s seen as a spiritual figure that protects Shinto shrines.^{[23]XResearch source}
Most tribes view monkeys as symbols of trickery and mischief, with some believing monkeys are bad omens for the future.^{[24]XResearch source}