Dreaming of a crocodile in the Akan tradition: meaning
The crocodile appears in two well-known Adinkra symbols of the Akan. Denkyem, the crocodile, stands for adaptability: it lives in water yet breathes air. And Funtunfunefu, two crocodiles with one stomach, stands for unity despite difference. A crocodile in a dream is therefore not read only as danger in an Akan reading.
Within this tradition
The proverb with Denkyem says that the crocodile lives in the water, yet breathes air. It is an image of someone who can adapt to circumstances without losing themselves. Whoever dreams of a crocodile moving calmly between water and bank can read it in this light: you are learning to live in a new situation, such as a new country, a new job or a new family, and keep what you are.
Funtunfunefu shows two crocodiles sharing one stomach, yet fighting over the food. The proverb says: they share one stomach, yet they fight over the food. The symbol is about unity in diversity, and about the folly of struggle between people who share the same interest. A dream about two crocodiles, or about a quarrel between relatives who depend on each other, is often connected with this symbol: the question is why you fight over what belongs to you together.
At the same time the crocodile remains a real danger in rivers, and in the Akan tradition rivers are the dwelling of abosom. A crocodile attacking you can therefore also be read as a warning to be careful in a situation whose depth you do not know.
Common variations
A crocodile between water and bank
Denkyem: adapting without losing yourself.
Two crocodiles fighting
Funtunfunefu: struggle between people who share the same interest.
A crocodile attacking
Caution in a situation whose depth you do not know.
A crocodile letting you pass
Respect for a force you cannot tame.
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Write your dream in the appFrequently asked questions
What does Denkyem mean?
Denkyem is the Adinkra symbol of the crocodile. It stands for adaptability: it lives in water yet breathes air.
What does Funtunfunefu mean?
Two crocodiles with one stomach: unity in diversity, and the folly of struggle between people with the same interest.
Does such a dream predict misfortune?
No. The Akan reading on Dreamkin does not predict misfortune. A dream is read as counsel or encouragement, and whoever finds it weighs heavily discusses it with an elder in the family.