Updated February 2025
Essential tools for interpreting dreams
If you are wondering what are the best tools you need for interpreting dreams biblically, you are in the right place!
This is a master list of Christian dream interpretation books, A to Z dream dictionaries, apps, and other practical tools which I have used for the biblical interpretation of dreams and visions and found helpful.
I approach dream interpretation from a biblical perspective. My belief is that our dreams can come from God, and understanding them is best understood within the context of an ongoing relationship with Him.
Dream interpretation essentials – summary
To make a start interpreting dreams, you will find the following helpful:
- A way to record your dreams, such as a notebook and pen, a printable dream journal page, or a notetaking app like OneNote.
- A general dream interpretation book or training resource, such as Hearing God through your dreams by Mark Virkler and Charity Virkler Kayembe.
- The Name Book by Dorothy Astoria to help with the spiritual and biblical meaning of names in dreams.
- A biblical dream dictionary for reference, such as The Divinity Code by Adam F Thompson and Adrian Beale.
If you live in a cold climate, it’s also worth investing in a warm fleecy top or dressing gown, ready for writing those dreams down in the night!
Also check out my guide to interpreting dreams from God for an overview of the entire dream interpretation process, from recording to interpreting and reviewing dreams, and my 3-step method – free download >>
Tools for recording and organising dreams
You need to find a method of recording your dreams that works for you and makes it easy to review them later. This could be by writing down your dreams, or making a voice recording on a device like your phone.
Physical recording methods
- Notebook and pen. A good old notebook and pen is fine for getting started. I used this method for a number of years. At some point it would be good to develop an electronic dream recording system.
- Dream journals and printable dream journal pages. I have developed a printable dream journal page with prompts for writing down essential information. There are many more designs available, for example on Etsy, but be aware they may be designed for different approaches to dreams.
Electronic recording methods
- Notetaking app. For years I typed my dreams directly onto Microsoft’s OneNote, which is a free app. I like it because it automatically syncs cross all my devices, and I can use its search facility. Any notetaking app with those functions would work.
- Electronic tablet with compatible pencil. I use my iPad and Apple pencil to record my dreams, because I like to write them down by hand but still store them electronically. But any tablet with a compatible pencil would do.
- Handwriting app. I purchased the Nebo app because I can use it to handwrite my dream, convert my writing to text, and then send it to OneNote.
- Voice recording app. If you use a voice recording app, you will still need to type the dream out later so you can review it and store it in a searchable format. Or you could use an app which converts voice to text. I have not tried this.
Resources for learning about dreams
General books about dream interpretation
MY FAVOURITE: Hearing God through your dreams by Mark Virkler and Charity Virkler Kayembe is the best dream meaning book I have found for Christians. It is a well-explained, readable, and thorough introduction to understanding the language of dreams.
- Understanding the dreams you dream by Ira Milligan. This is a very popular choice.
- Understand your dreams now by Doug Addison.
- Seeing the voice of God by Laura Harris Smith.
- Parables, dreams & encounters by Jacquie Robinson .
- Understanding your dreams by Sandie Freed.
Bible-based dream dictionaries
A Christian A to Z dream dictionary can be a useful starting point for interpreting the symbols in your dreams. For more on when to use a dream dictionary see my article 10 simple clues for understanding dream symbols.
MY FAVOURITE: God’s prophetic symbolism in everyday life by Adam F Thompson and Adrian Beale is my best biblical dream dictionary. It lists a large number of dream symbols with relevant bible verses. I like its focus on everyday signs. Alternatively, you can get a similar list of symbols in their popular book, The Divinity Code (below).
- The Divinity Code by Adam F Thompson and Adrian Beale. This contains a similar dream symbol dictionary as in their prophetic symbolism book above, and is very popular.
- Dream elements – An alternative dream dictionary by John E Thomas (of Streams Ministries).
- The bible-based dictionary of prophetic symbols by Dr Joe Ibojie.
- The ultimate guide to understanding the dreams you dream by Ira Milligan (the second half is a dream dictionary).
Other useful books for dream interpretation
MY FAVOURITE: The name book by Dorothy Astoria. I use this book constantly for looking up the spiritual and biblical meaning of names in dreams! It contains the meaning of many names, plus a spiritual signifance and bible verse for each one.
- Top 20 dreams by John Paul Jackson is helpful for learning about practical application.
- Dream Stories by Michael B. French contains examples of real dreams.
Bible-based ministries that teach on dreams
It can be useful to take a foundational course or attend a training event on dreams. I have found the following ministries helpful:
MY FAVOURITE: Communion with God ministries. Mark Virkler teaches on hearing God’s voice and the Spirit-filled life. His daughter, Charity Virkler Kayembe, has books, courses, and videos on interpreting dreams. Her DAESI dream work method is easy to remember.
- Streams ministries has many excellent resources and courses (I trained with Streams UK).
- The Dream Academy has an online dream interpretation community for a small monthly fee, plus online courses for members.
- InLight Connection has books and courses.
- Joshua Media Ministries has various resources.
- God Encounters Ministries has books and other resources.
Other useful tools
- I use BibleGateway, which is an online searchable bible, for researching dream elements.
- I love reading The Passion Translation bible, and the author sometimes explains the symbolic meaning of things in the footnotes.
If you live in a cold climate, it’s also worth investing in a warm fleecy top or dressing gown, ready for writing those dreams down in the night!
Content Disclaimer
The information contained above is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this article are not intended to amount to advice and you should not rely on any of the contents of this article. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this article. Jennifer Needham disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this article.
