Dreaming of a dog in Santería: meaning
In Santería dogs belong to Babalú-Ayé, the orisha of illness and healing, who in Cuba is connected with Saint Lazarus, depicted on crutches with dogs licking his wounds. A dog in a dream is therefore often read in Santería readings as loyalty, care and healing.
Within this tradition
Babalú-Ayé is one of the most venerated orishas in Cuba. He rules over contagious diseases, and with them also over healing. He is depicted as an old man on crutches, dressed in burlap, with purple as his colour, and accompanied by dogs. That image comes from Lazarus in the parable of the rich man and poor Lazarus, whose sores were licked by the dogs. Every year on 17 December tens of thousands of pilgrims go to the shrine of San Lázaro in El Rincón, near Havana, some crawling as a sign of thanks or a vow.
In the patakí Babalú-Ayé is someone who has suffered much himself and therefore knows compassion for those who are sick, poor or shut out. His dogs are loyal companions who stay where others walk away.
Along those lines a friendly dog in a dream is often read in Santería readings as loyalty, protection and care: someone who stays with you in a hard time. A dog licking a wound can be about healing that comes slowly. A dog beside an old man on crutches strongly recalls Babalú-Ayé, and such a dream is often connected with health or looking after those who suffer.
Dreamkin gives no medical advice. With complaints you see a doctor; you discuss a dream with your padrino or madrina.
Common variations
A loyal, friendly dog
Protection and care: someone who stays with you.
A dog licking a wound
Healing that comes slowly.
An old man on crutches with dogs
Strongly recalls Babalú-Ayé.
A sick or neglected dog
The question of whom you look after, or who looks after you.
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Write your dream in the appFrequently asked questions
Who is Babalú-Ayé?
The orisha of illness and healing, connected in Cuba with Saint Lazarus, depicted with crutches and dogs.
What happens on 17 December in Cuba?
Tens of thousands of pilgrims go to the shrine of San Lázaro in El Rincón.
Does such a dream mean this orisha belongs to me?
No. Which orisha belongs to someone is established within the tradition through divination and initiation, never derived from a dream. Discuss a vivid dream with your padrino or madrina.