Dreaming of Scorpions: Discover the Spiritual Meaning and Interpretation

Scorpions are arachnids with eight legs, a segmented tail with a stinger, and pincers. Many scorpions are venomous, making them threats to humans and other prey. These predatory creatures are of the order Scorpiones and possess an exoskeleton similar to shrimp. 

Scorpions are primarily found in deserts on every continent except Antarctica. While you might not witness them in your home state, depending on where you reside, you might still see this visitor late at night — in your dreams. In fact, dreaming about scorpions is extremely common and carries deep symbolism.

This article will cover the various spiritual meanings and interpretations of dreaming of scorpions, including their symbolism across various cultures and religions. 

Scorpion Symbolism

Scorpions hold various meanings across different cultures. Here are a few specific themes associated with scorpions.

Native American Culture

Native Americans highly respected scorpions. While they often represented danger and threats, the arachnids were believed to only sting those with evil or impure spirits, according to Native Americans. 

Additionally, they actually used scorpion venom for medicinal purposes, such as to treat mental health symptoms, ease the pain of arthritis, and support spiritual awakening. 

Christianity

In the Bible, scorpions represent terror and punishment. These invertebrates are associated with great and prolonged suffering, the devil, and the end of time. 

Hindu Scripture

In Hinduism, scorpions symbolize power. They are something to be feared yet also something to be admired. 

Celtic Mythology

Celtics believed scorpions possessed supernatural powers. In Celtic mythology, scorpions represented evil and underworld creatures. 

Greek Mythology 

In Greek mythology, scorpions symbolized death — especially in relation to the underworld. The arachnids resembled the Greek goddess/hunter Artemis. Artemis herself represented wild animals, nature, vegetation, and childbirth/care.

Spiritual Meaning

Spiritually, scorpions serve as reminders to rid yourself of negative or “poisonous” thoughts, people, or circumstances. Additionally, they can symbolize both death and rebirth, as well as rising from the ashes. 

Types of Scorpions

With almost 2,000 scorpion species, we can’t quite cover each individual meaning. However, when analyzing scorpion dream symbolism, many focus on the color of the scorpion and its associated interpretations.

Black

Many believe that dreaming about a black scorpion is actually a warning of danger ahead. Others say black scorpions represent evil energy, deceit, or manipulation. If you dream of a black scorpion, be wary of the people in your life. Ensure you’re not blindly trusting anyone or investing too much of your energy in the wrong places/people.

Brown

Brown scorpions call for more stability. If you’ve been dreaming about brown scorpions, analyze the relationships in your life. Is there anything that needs addressing? Do you feel the need to cut out toxic people? Have you been arguing with your partner more than usual? During this time, seek resolutions and rationality.

Red

As you’ve learned, scorpions often carry negative symbolism. However, dreaming of red scorpions can actually be a good sign that romantic fulfillment is in your future. Red is the color of passion, and seeing a red scorpion in your dreams might be the encouragement you need to immerse yourself in romance. Say yes to dates, let others in, and follow your heart when it comes to your romantic life.

White

Another positive connotation: white scorpions embody peace and hope. You might be making progress toward your dreams and manifestations, so hang in there and keep your faith high. This is also a huge indicator of spiritual awakening, so continue to heal and open your mind.

Yellow

Yellow scorpions have different meanings: some negative and some positive. Let’s start with the bad news first.

Often, if you’re dreaming of a yellow scorpion, it could be an indication of envy or missed opportunities. On the other hand, however, it can also indicate wealth and good fortune. Whatever the case, keep an eye open for new endeavors and continue to manifest success. Even if you’ve missed your chance with a specific possibility, success is still within your reach.

Common Scorpion Dreams

There are various types of scorpion-related dreams. Generally speaking, dreaming of a scorpion represents your relationships with others in your life. It might indicate that some of your close friends or loved ones are actually toxic to you, encouraging you to step away from anyone who doesn’t make you feel good.

Here are ten common scorpion dreams — and their associated meanings and interpretations.

1. Dreaming of Being Stung by a Scorpion

If a scorpion stings you in your dream, it might represent someone in your life backstabbing you. Perhaps a close family member or friend in your inner circle isn’t as trusting as you think. This dream asks you to reevaluate your relationships with others, especially if you feel you’re continuously being betrayed.

Additionally, being stung by a scorpion in your dream world could indicate karma coming back around to you, so make sure yours is positive.

2. Dreaming of a Scorpion Chasing You

If a scorpion is chasing you or attempting to attack you in your dreams, watch out for symptoms of burnout in your waking life. This dream — or nightmare—reminds you to take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The more you try to avoid your health, the more unavoidable it will become.

3. Dreaming of a Scorpion Stinging Itself

If a scorpion stings itself in your dream, it could signify self-esteem issues. We tend to attack ourselves when feeling insecure, and this dream might directly represent how you treat yourself. If you’ve been experiencing self-doubt and issues with your confidence, take this dream as a sign to build self-love and become your own best friend.

4. Dreaming of a Scorpion in Water

If you encounter a scorpion floating or submerged in water in your dreams, you might be facing some traumas. If you’ve been repressing damaging memories or heavy emotions, this dream can be a message that you need to face what you’ve been through and how it’s impacting you. This requires acceptance, first and foremost.

To let go of the past, you must accept that it happened and work through the emotions it caused you. Then, release those trapped feelings and continue moving forward toward a brighter future.

5. Dreaming of a Dead Scorpion

While death might scare you — even if it’s the death of a scorpion — it actually can resemble positive meanings. Death and rebirth go hand-in-hand, and often, if you’re dreaming about a dead scorpion, you’re entering a new phase of your life that requires you to “rise from the ashes,” so to speak. 

Similar to the above interpretation, you must release your past to start anew. This might mean starting a new job, relationship, or chapter of your life. Whatever the case, embrace change with an open mind and positive spirit.

6. Dreaming of Getting Attacked by a Group of Scorpions

Perhaps the most alarming dream of all, getting attacked by multiple scorpions, can illicit — and symbolize — immense anxiety and fear. If you’ve been facing a ton of challenges in your waking day and feel as though you’re under constant attack/criticism, whether at work or in your personal life, it’s time to take some space for yourself. Meditate, journal, speak to a professional, or take some time off to avoid burnout and get to a more grounded place.

7. Dreaming of Killing a Scorpion

If you’ve been dreaming about killing a scorpion, this often means you’re finding the courage to face your adversities head-on. You’re ready to rise to the challenge and defend yourself against those who threaten your happiness and/or safety. You get to be the hero of your own story — you don’t need anyone else to fight your battles for you. Trust that you can rely on yourself and be your own advocate, even when you’re afraid.

8. Dreaming of a Giant Scorpion

A giant scorpion might represent the overwhelm you feel in your waking life. Usually, things seem a lot bigger than they actually are, and dreaming of a large scorpion can indicate your problems’ impact on you. 

Additionally, it might even mean you have a major decision to make — one that requires caution and rationality. Approach every choice with intention, and consider all possible outcomes before forging your way forward.

9. Dreaming of Eating a Scorpion

Dreaming about eating a scorpion can symbolize emotional intimacy and a promising new relationship on the horizon. This relationship will likely be romantic and passionate, so take it as a good sign that you’re going to meet someone special soon.

However, if you were choking or forcing down a scorpion (and not enjoying it), it can be a sign of quite the opposite: loneliness and loss. In this case, know that your words can be damaging, so be more intentional when communicating with others.

10. Dreaming of a Scorpion in Your Bed

Because we sleep with those who are closest to us, dreaming of a scorpion in your bed might represent the betrayal of someone who’s in your inner circle. In fact, your enemy might be closer than you think. Take a good look at everyone you hold close to you and decide whether you feel they can be trusted. Do they deserve your love and loyalty, or are they treating you in ways that make you feel less than others?

Suddenly Dreaming of Scorpions

If you’re suddenly dreaming of scorpions on a regular basis, you likely are encountering a stressful period in your life. Don’t fret — the above interpretations can help guide you and shed light on what, exactly, these dreams mean. When decoding your dreams, it’s best to follow your own intuition and trust your interpretations.

While dreaming of scorpions might be alarming, especially out of nowhere, it doesn’t mean you’re in immediate danger or will experience bad luck. In fact, its symbolism can be positive or serve as guidance while enduring confusing, trying times.

Bottom Line

Scorpions symbolize various meanings, from death and rebirth to success and love. To determine what dreaming of scorpions mean for you, consider the context of your dream and its relation to your waking life. You know yourself best. If you feel the need to practice more caution in your personal relationships, take this as a sign to do so. Or maybe you’re feeling ready to take on new challenges or put yourself out there romantically. Whatever the case, let this dream inspire you to make the best decisions for you.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/epantha