Rain has the power to bring both joy and sorrow. In the autumn, its misty chill can seep through your clothing, while a downpour after a hot day can be incredibly refreshing. Regardless of its form, it has always emotionally impacted humans.
Rain has been a symbol of rejuvenation, revival, and new beginnings in many different cultures since ancient times. It has been associated with various concepts such as purification, cleansing, and transformation, reflected in many works of art, literature, and music.
In this article, we will delve into how the rain has been used to convey various aspects of life and how it has shaped literature, culture, and society worldwide.
The rain symbolizes: new beginnings, rebirth, success, renewal, determination, luck, fertility, love, purification, clarity, warnings, sadness, sorrow, hopelessness, and dread.
Table of Contents
Rain Symbolism in Mythology
Let’s explore its symbolism through different mythologies:
Greek Mythology
Zeus, the king of gods, the first lord of the Greek pantheon, is said to be the god of rain and thunder. He rules from Mount Olympus, and his symbol is a lightning dart.
To divide the world, Zeus and his brothers chose to draw lots. He was given the sky, Poseidon the sea, and Hades the underworld. [1]
Hindu Mythology
Varuna (Baruna in Malay), a deity in Hindu mythology, is connected to the sky, waters, justice, and truth. He is referenced in the Rig Veda, ancient Tamil, Buddhist, and Jain literature.
A popular prayer from the Soma Yaga politely asks Varuna to direct the surplus rain to the sea or forest rather than the land. [1]
Symbolism in Literature
Rain has a multitude of symbolic meanings in literature. It can represent sorrow, a new beginning, a warning of things to come, a strong will to succeed, the end of a prolonged period of dryness, and an opportunity to take a step back and reflect.
Melancholy
Rain is often used as a symbol in film, television, and literature to represent sadness and hopelessness. It can be seen washing over a scene to signify a character’s overwhelming sorrow, serving as a reminder of their emotional state and the bleakness of their circumstances.
This symbolism of rain is often used to amplify the characters’ emotions and provide a powerful metaphor for their inner turmoil. [2]
Ominous Foreboding
Rain is also used to represent a sense of dread. It often reflects a feeling of gloom or despair, suggesting that nothing good is coming.
The phrase “dark clouds on the horizon” is often used to describe this feeling. It might be used in a movie’s last scene to emphasize that the story will not have a happy ending. [2]
Rebirth and Renewal
The use of rain as a symbol of renewal is widespread when a long reign of terror or hardship has ended. It can be seen as a reminder that hope and new life are possible even in the darkest times.
Rain can also represent cleansing and purification, a sign that a new, brighter chapter in life can begin. [2]
Determination
Rain is used as a symbol of determination in films and stories. Even when characters face challenges, they will still press on and persevere. This is especially true when they are seen running or preparing for a big event amid a rainstorm. [2]
Symbolism in Dreams
Dreams about rain can signify various things, often interpreted as a sign of luck, fertility, and emotional well-being. [3]
You Will Receive Blessings
The most significant interpretation of seeing rain in your dreams is that something fortunate will come your way. In your daily life, be more conscious of recognizing the blessings that are hidden or overlooked.
It is also a sign to express gratitude for what you have and what is yet to come. [3]
Unexpected Expenses
You might soon have to spend money on something you didn’t anticipate when you dream about rainwater. This dream reminds you to be ready for any potential difficulties.
Take a look at your life – are your finances organized, and would you be able to cover an unexpected expense like health care? Being prepared allows you to make the most of the hardships that come your way. [3]
A Passionate Love Affair
If you dream of rainwater flooding your house, it could signify an overflowing of love and pleasure that will soon come your way. This dream could signify that you are about to meet someone with whom you’ll have a passionate connection.
If you are looking for love or romance, this dream might indicate that your wishes will be fulfilled and you will enter into a passionate relationship. [3]
Rain Symbolism in Real Life
Rain can bring about a sense of relaxation, especially when the sound of raindrops hitting the window is heard. It can make many people feel cozy and bring them inner peace. For others, rain symbolism might represent a time of purification and clarity.
Cleansing
Rain not only cleanses physical dirt and pollution but can also have a mental cleansing effect. This rain symbolism is often seen in movies, where it serves as a catharsis, freeing the soul and washing away negative emotions. It can be a redeeming moment that helps one let go of all evil thoughts and feelings. [4]
Sadness
Tecsia Evans, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist in private practice in San Francisco (where it rains an average of 67 days a year), notes that many people can become more vulnerable to feelings of loneliness and sadness when the weather turns dark and dreary.
It is common to observe a shift in mood and self-esteem when it rains outside. For some, this might result from being confined indoors and away from the sunshine and warmth of the outdoors. For others, it is related to the symbolism of rain, which can often signify sadness or even a sense of hopelessness. [5]
Conclusion
Rain has long been a source of inspiration and contemplation in literature, art, and music. It can be a powerful symbol of renewal, rebirth, hope, sadness, and despair. It can also be seen as a representation of determination and strength and a reminder of the power of nature.
No matter how it is interpreted, rain has emotionally impacted humans for centuries, and its symbolism remains an integral part of our culture.
References
- https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/open-page/the-rain-tales/article24780824.ece
- Symbolism-of-rain
- Rain-dream-meaning
- https://symbolismandmetaphor.com/rain-symbolism-meaning/
- https://www.webmd.com/balance/features/can-rainy-days-really-get-you-down#1