What does it mean when you dream of cannibalism?

Answer 1

Dreams communicate through symbols and metaphors, so the dreamer need not be concerned about any literal cannibalism. Instead, focus on the emotions accompanying the dream. Then think of common phrases relating to cannibalism. -- For instance, we often affectionately tell small children, "I'm going to eat you up!" The popular Maurice Sendak book, Where the Wild Thing Are, includes the phrase, "I'll eat you up I love you so!" If these affectionate phrases are consistent with the emotions of the dream, then the dreams probably relate to deep love and affection. -- Similarly, the most sacred rite of Christian Holy Communion includes symbolic eating of the Savior's "Body and Blood." -- Alternatively, if the emotions of the dream are fear and dread, the cannibalism could symbolize the dreamer's feelings of being "eaten alive" by something as simple as too many mosquitoes on the patio, or by too many demands at the office or by insistent, insensitive, demanding family members.

Obviously you have been thinking about cannibalism for quite some time and what you need to do is stop thinking about it. Eventually the dreams will go away.

Answer 2

The dream brings to mind a phrase from a popular children's book: "I'll eat you up I love you so!" Adults often tell small children "I'll eat you up," in playful affection. Lovers will do the same. Such expressions are not to be taken literally. But if the dream feels threatening rather than playful, it probably means that the dreamer does not welcome someone's affection, and feels consumed, devoured and destroyed rather than loved. The dreamer might be wise to consider whether some relationship or involvement needs a bit more distance.