This is a term which refers to that aspect of the symbolism of space
which is concerned with the simple moral pattern deriving from the notions of
height and—ultimately—of centre. Hindu doctrine describes the three fundamental states of the human spirit as sattva, which is ‘loftiness’ of spirit; rajas—
manifestation, struggle and dynamism; and tamas, or obscurity and brute instinct; and these three states are located on three vertical levels. Strictly speaking,
there are five zones or levels: the absolute low level and the absolute high level,
plus the central area divided into three zones merging into each other and at the same time bringing the outer extremes into progressive relationship. When the
baser levels concern not the intellectual but the moral—which is in essence infinitely more complex and mysterious—then the precise significance of the symbolism is not nearly so hard-and-fast. There is always the possibility of symbolic
Inversion, in which case the two opposing directions have something in common
in that both partake of the idea of depth. Hence the saying: ‘Deep calls to deep.’
The temptations endured by the chosen few find their counterpart in the abysses
of salvation which may be opened up for the reprobate. Dostoievski has spoken
eloquently about this. Finally, here is a quotation from L’Art chinois by M.
Paléologue, written in 1888: ‘Under the Chinese Chou dynasty (11th century
B.C.), the dead of the lower classes were buried in the plains; princes, on hills of
moderate height; and emperors in tombs built on a mountain-top. The head of the
corpse would be turned to face North.’ In virtually every work of art whose
composition is of an ideological rather than a naturalistic character, the verticalline locates the Three Worlds of the infernal, terrestrial (with its own, internal
orders—the marine, the animal and the human) and celestial. Thus, in the
Mesopotamian stele (or Kudurru), the illustrations are arranged on several levels,
divided off by lines to suggest their relative values: the most primitive beings are
placed at the lowest level (since they are closest to the ‘primordial monster’)
while astral bodies and symbols of the godhead are situated on the highest plane.
The same principles are true of Romanesque art.

To dream that you are being forced to do something, indicates negative feelings that are being pushed out of the unconscious. Feelings of hate, aggression or anger which you may have suppressed need to be addressed head on.

To dream of darkness overtaking you on a journey, augurs ill for any work you may attempt, unless the sun breaks through before the journey ends, then faults will be overcome.

To lose your friend, or child, in the darkness, portends many provocations to wrath. Try to remain under control after dreaming of darkness, for trials in business and love will beset you.

A dark place, such as a cave, in a dream can symbolize negative emotions. In your dream, are you able to find your way out of the dark place?

A dream about being in darkness can also mean that you believe you are being "kept in the dark" about something - that someone else is keeping a secret from you.

If you dream that you are afraid of the dark you could be unwilling to deal with obstacles that you expect to face in the future.

Dreams of the astral, denote that your efforts and plans will culminate in worldly success and distinction. A spectre or picture of your astral self brings heart-rending tribulation.