The Dictionary of Symbols
At times it is synonymous with the circumference, just as the circumference is often equated with circular movement. But although its general meaning
embraces both aspects, there are some further details which it is important to
emphasize. The circle or disk is, very frequently, an emblem of the sun (and
indisputably so when it is surrounded by rays). It also bears a certain relationship
to the number ten (symbolizing the return to unity from multiplicity) (49), when
it comes to stand for heaven and perfection (4) and sometimes eternity as well
(20). There are profound psychological implications in this particular concept of
perfection. As Jung observes, the square, representing the lowest of the composite and factorial numbers, symbolizes the pluralist state of man who has not
achieved inner unity (perfection) whilst the circle would correspond to this ultimate state of Oneness. The octagon is the intermediate state between the square
and the circle. Representations of the relationship between the circle and the square are very common in the universal and spiritual world of morphology,
notably in the mandalas of India and Tibet and in Chinese emblems. Indeed,
according to Chochod, in China, activity, or the masculine principle (Yang), is
represented by a white circle (depicting heaven), whereas passivity, the feminine
principle (Yin) is denoted by a black square (portraying earth). The white circle
stands for energy and celestial influences and the black square for telluric forces.
The interaction implicit in dualism is represented by the famous symbol of the Yang-Yin, a circle divided into two equal sections by a sigmoid line across the
diameter, the white section (Yang) having a black spot within it, and the black
(Yin) a white spot. These two spots signify that there is always something of the
feminine in the masculine and something of the masculine in the feminine. The
sigmoid line is a symbol of the movement of communication and serves the
purpose of implying—like the swastika—the idea of rotation, so imparting a
dynamic and complementary character to this bipartite symbol. The law of polarity has been, the subject of much thought among Chinese philosophers, who
have deduced from this bipolar symbol a series of principles of unquestionable
value, which we here transcribe: (a) the quantity of energy distributed throughout
the universe is invariable; (b) it consists of the sum of two equal amounts of
energy, one positive and active in kind and the other negative and passive; (c) the
nature of cosmic phenomena is characterized by the varying proportions of the
two modes of energy involved in their creation. In the twelve months of the year,
for example, there is a given quantity of energy drawn from six parts of Yang and
six of Yin, in varying proportions (13). We must also point to the relationship
between the circle and the sphere, which is a symbol of the All.
Dream Moods
To see a circle in your dream, symbolizes perfection, completeness, immortality and/or wholeness. On a less positive note, it may also mean that you are going around in circles in some situation. Or the circle can indicate monotony and endless repetition.
To see circles within circles in your dream, indicate that you are well protected or that you are being overly guarded. You may need to let down your defenses. Alternatively, the dream may highlight the notion that you are going around in a vicious circle. You need to somehow find a way to break this circle.
To see an imperfect or incomplete circle in your dream, suggests that you will face many obstacles and setbacks toward achieving your goals. You need to work on your inner self and develop more knowledge. Eventually, you will overcome these obstacles and find that your struggles are well worth it.
To see a circle with a cross, symbolizes earth. It may also serve as guidance toward the center and self-orientation.
10,000 Dreams Interpreted
To dream of a circle, denotes that your affairs will deceive you in their proportions of gain. For a young woman to dream of a circle, warns her of indiscreet involvement to the exclusion of marriage.
Hyper Dictionary
Seeing a circle in your dream, foretells that you will have fabulous luck in securing your fortune and happiness. The circle symbolizes perfection, completeness and wholeness. On a less positive note, it may also mean that you are going around in circles in a particular situation.. Seeing an imperfect circle in your dream means that you will face many obstacles and setbacks in achieving your goals. In the end, you will overcome these obstacles and you will find that your struggle was well worth it. Seeing a circle with a cross, symbolizes earth. It may also serve as guidance toward the center and self-orientation.
Meaning of Dreams
The circle symbolises infinity, the circle of life and the eternal unknown. You, the dreamer, may have come to a greater degree of spiritual awareness, so the dream could be spiritual in nature. It is one of the most important dream symbols that represent the psychic centre of personality. It is symbolic of wholeness, completeness and unity of the self. However, as always, examine all of the details in the dream, as well as its tone and mood, and rule out the possibility of "going in circles" as the primary message in the dream.