The elders in a tribal society traditionally had the wisdom of age and experience. Spiritually, therefore, they had the right to guide others. This gives a similar significance to them as authority figures today.
It is in this sense that the wise old man represents an inner wisdom.
[1]Gives gender-specific: In a woman’s dream the elders or the elderly may suggest a more matriarchal aspect. In a man’s dream this may be more paternalistic. It will, of course, depend on whether the gender of the dream figures is recognized.
[2]Psychological / emotional perspective: From an emotional perspective, in dreams the elderly can be accorded respect and may represent knowledge, power and understanding.
[3]Material aspects: The elderly in dreams can symbolize old fashioned or outdated values and methods of operating, as well as those that are to be honoured.
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