In the Biblical tradition, dreams of being chased often symbolize the soul's struggle with sin, guilt, or spiritual adversaries. The Psalms frequently depict the righteous being pursued by enemies (e.g., Psalm 143:3–4), reflecting both inner turmoil and external persecution. Such dreams may serve as divine prompts to confront unresolved transgressions, seek repentance, or trust in God's deliverance (Psalm 23:4: 'Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me'). The act of fleeing may also represent avoidance of God's calling, as exemplified by Jonah, who attempted to escape God's command, ultimately leading to greater trials until he faced his responsibilities.

In Buddhist dream interpretation, being chased often signifies attachment, aversion, or ignorance (the three poisons) manifesting as fear and avoidance. The endless running mirrors samsara—the cycle of suffering perpetuated by unexamined habits and clinging. The pursuer is a projection of the mind's own unexamined fears and desires. Mindfulness and insight are encouraged to recognize the illusory nature of the threat, allowing the dreamer to cultivate equanimity and break the cycle of suffering.

Across cultures, dreams of being chased are among the most common and are generally associated with fear, stress, or avoidance. In Western societies, such dreams are often linked to work pressure, social anxiety, or unresolved interpersonal conflicts. In some Indigenous traditions, the pursuer may be interpreted as a spirit, ancestor, or animal guide delivering a message or warning. The universal theme is the need to address what is being avoided, whether external threats or internal struggles, and to seek resolution rather than escape.

In Hindu dream lore, being chased can represent the play of maya (illusion) and unresolved karma. The pursuer may symbolize past actions or desires (vasanas) seeking resolution. Such dreams are reminders from the subconscious to confront one's duties (dharma) and not evade life's lessons. The Bhagavad Gita teaches that facing one's fears with courage and detachment leads to liberation (moksha), and that running from one's responsibilities only prolongs suffering.

In Islamic dream interpretation (ta'bir), being chased often signifies running from one's responsibilities, fears, or sins. Ibn Sirin, a renowned interpreter, suggests that being pursued in a dream can indicate anxiety about one's actions or fear of punishment. If the pursuer is known, it may relate to a specific unresolved issue; if unknown, it can symbolize the nafs (lower self) or shayatin (evil influences) urging the dreamer away from righteousness. The dream serves as a warning to face one's shortcomings and seek forgiveness (istighfar) and protection through prayer and reliance on Allah.

From a psychological perspective, especially in Freudian and Jungian analysis, being chased is a classic manifestation of anxiety, avoidance, or inner conflict. The pursuer often represents repressed emotions, unresolved trauma, or aspects of the self that the dreamer is unwilling to face. The inability to escape may indicate feelings of helplessness or being overwhelmed by stressors in waking life. Such dreams encourage self-reflection and integration of these shadow aspects to achieve psychological balance and personal growth.

Spiritually, being chased in a dream can symbolize the soul's journey through challenges and the avoidance of necessary growth. The pursuer may represent karmic lessons, unresolved energies, or spiritual tests that must be faced for personal evolution. The dream is an invitation to stop running from one's true path, embrace transformation, and trust in higher guidance. True liberation comes not from escape, but from courageous confrontation and acceptance of one's spiritual journey.