In the biblical tradition, betrayal is a deeply resonant theme, most famously illustrated by Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus (Matthew 26:14-16, 47-50). Dreaming of betrayal may symbolize a crisis of faith, a test of loyalty, or the presence of sin and temptation. Such dreams can serve as divine warnings, prompting self-examination of one's faithfulness to God and others, and the pursuit of forgiveness and reconciliation. The Bible also demonstrates that even painful betrayals can serve a higher purpose, as seen in Joseph's story (Genesis 37, 45:4-8), where betrayal ultimately leads to redemption and the fulfillment of God's plan.

In Buddhist thought, betrayal is seen as a manifestation of attachment, aversion, and ignorance—the three poisons. Dreams of betrayal may reveal clinging to expectations or the illusion of control. The pain of betrayal offers an opportunity for mindfulness, equanimity, and compassion. Such dreams encourage the dreamer to recognize the impermanence of relationships, practice letting go, and cultivate non-attachment, thereby reducing suffering.

Culturally, betrayal is a universal motif found in myths, literature, and folklore, symbolizing the rupture of social bonds and the pain of exclusion. In many societies, dreams of betrayal may reflect anxieties about loyalty, honor, and belonging. Such dreams can serve as warnings to be vigilant in relationships or as expressions of collective fears about trust and community cohesion. The interpretation is often shaped by the dreamer's cultural background and personal experiences.

In Hinduism, betrayal in dreams may be interpreted through the lenses of karma and dharma. Such dreams could indicate unresolved karmic debts or a deviation from one's righteous path (dharma). Stories like Kaikeyi's betrayal of Lord Rama in the Ramayana illustrate how betrayal can catalyze spiritual growth and self-realization. The dream may prompt the dreamer to reflect on their actions, seek forgiveness, and restore harmony in relationships, thereby realigning with cosmic order.

In Islamic dream interpretation (ta'bir), betrayal is often a sign of inner conflict or a caution against misplaced trust. The Qur'an recounts the betrayal of Yusuf (Joseph) by his brothers (Qur'an 12:15-18), highlighting the virtues of patience (sabr) and trust in Allah's wisdom. Dreaming of betrayal may signal the need for vigilance in relationships and encourage seeking Allah's guidance to discern true intentions. It also serves as a reminder to uphold personal integrity and avoid actions that could harm others, reinforcing the importance of justice and ethical conduct.

From a psychological perspective, dreams of betrayal often reflect unresolved fears of abandonment, insecurity, or past experiences of broken trust. Jungian analysis might interpret betrayal as the emergence of the shadow—the repressed aspects of the self that threaten one's sense of wholeness. Freudian theory could see such dreams as expressions of guilt, anxiety, or unresolved interpersonal conflicts. These dreams invite the dreamer to explore their relationships, boundaries, and self-worth, and to address underlying emotional wounds.

Spiritually, betrayal in dreams can signify a rupture in one's connection to higher truth or purpose. It may represent a loss of alignment with core values or a challenge to personal integrity. Such dreams often call for forgiveness—of self and others—and the healing of wounds that separate the dreamer from their spiritual path. They can also be seen as opportunities for growth, prompting the dreamer to transcend ego, embrace compassion, and realign with their higher self.