Although artichokes are not explicitly referenced in the Bible, their structure—layers shielding a tender heart—serves as a potent metaphor for the spiritual journey described in scripture. The tough exterior and thorns evoke the 'hardness of heart' (Ezekiel 36:26) and the spiritual defenses that must be softened or removed to access divine truth. The act of peeling away layers to reach the nourishing heart echoes the biblical call to seek inner truth (Psalm 51:6) and the promise of reward for perseverance (Galatians 6:9). Thus, the artichoke in a dream may symbolize the soul's gradual unveiling and the eventual reward of spiritual intimacy with God.

In Buddhist symbolism, the artichoke can be seen as an allegory for the gradual removal of ignorance (avidya) and delusion. Each layer peeled away represents letting go of attachments and false views, while the thorns are obstacles on the path to awakening. The heart of the artichoke signifies the realization of Buddha-nature—emptiness (shunyata) and boundless compassion (karuna)—attained through diligent practice and mindfulness.

Culturally, especially in Mediterranean societies, artichokes symbolize guardedness, mystery, and the rewards of patience. Their culinary use in festive settings underscores themes of abundance and celebration. In dreams, artichokes may reflect the need to invest effort to uncover hidden opportunities or to break through social or emotional barriers. The thorns and the heart serve as metaphors for protection and the valuable rewards found within.

Within Hindu philosophy, the artichoke's layers evoke the koshas, or sheaths, that obscure the atman (true self). Peeling the artichoke mirrors spiritual practices (sadhana) that strip away these coverings, leading to self-realization. The thorns represent maya (illusion) and the obstacles of worldly attachment. The heart, once reached, is the bliss (ananda) of union with Brahman, and eating it symbolizes the direct experience of divine joy.

In Islamic dream interpretation, vegetables often symbolize sustenance and spiritual provision. The artichoke, with its thorny layers and hidden heart, can represent the necessity of sabr (patience) and the importance of looking beyond outward appearances to discover inner blessings. The thorns signify life's trials, which test sincerity and faith, while peeling or consuming the artichoke mirrors the inner struggle (jihad al-nafs) to purify the heart and attain true iman (faith). The artichoke thus embodies the process of enduring hardship to access spiritual nourishment and blessings.

From a psychological perspective, the artichoke is a compelling image of the psyche's defenses and the process of self-exploration. Its layers symbolize the protective mechanisms people develop, while the thorns represent anxieties or fears that guard the vulnerable core. Peeling the artichoke mirrors therapeutic work—gradually dismantling defenses to access authentic emotions and the true self (as in Jungian individuation). Consuming the heart suggests integration and acceptance of one's deepest feelings, leading to psychological wholeness.

Spiritually, the artichoke encapsulates the soul's quest for enlightenment. The many layers represent illusions, attachments, or ego constructs that must be transcended. The thorns are the obstacles and resistances encountered on the spiritual path. Reaching and consuming the heart symbolizes the realization of one's true nature or union with the Divine, achieved through persistent inner work and self-inquiry.