Although gorillas are not specifically referenced in the Bible, their attributes—immense strength, dominance, and primal energy—can be analogized to biblical figures such as lions or bears (see Judges 14:5-6, Daniel 6:22). Dreaming of a gorilla may symbolize facing daunting obstacles or adversaries, echoing the biblical motif of overcoming giants through faith and divine empowerment. Alternatively, the gorilla's raw might may serve as a caution against succumbing to pride or unbridled instincts, as warned in Proverbs 16:18: 'Pride goes before destruction.'

In Buddhist symbolism, animals often represent facets of the mind. The gorilla, with its immense power and potential for aggression, may symbolize the untamed mind or the 'three poisons' (ignorance, attachment, aversion). Dreaming of a gorilla could be a call to cultivate mindfulness and compassion, transforming raw energy into wisdom. Observing a calm gorilla suggests progress in taming the mind, while an aggressive one signals unresolved inner turmoil.

Across cultures, gorillas are seen as symbols of raw power, protection, and sometimes danger. In African folklore, gorillas are respected as guardians of the forest, embodying both gentleness and ferocity. In Western media, they often represent misunderstood strength or the 'gentle giant.' Dreaming of a gorilla may reflect cultural attitudes toward power, leadership, or the fear of the unknown.

In Hindu tradition, Hanuman—the monkey god—is revered as a symbol of strength, devotion, and service. While gorillas are not native to India, dreaming of a powerful ape may evoke Hanuman's qualities: courage, loyalty, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Alternatively, a gorilla may represent the tamasic (inert, primal) aspects of the self, which must be balanced by sattva (purity) and rajas (activity) for spiritual growth.

In Islamic dream interpretation, animals often symbolize human traits or external forces. While gorillas are not directly mentioned in classical Islamic sources, their qualities—strength, dominance, and potential aggression—can represent a formidable enemy or one's own nafs (ego/self). Drawing from Ibn Sirin, seeing a wild beast in a dream may indicate a powerful adversary or an inner spiritual struggle. A calm gorilla could signify mastery over one's desires, while an aggressive one may warn of unchecked impulses or unresolved conflicts.

From a Jungian psychological perspective, the gorilla embodies the 'shadow'—the primal, instinctual side of the psyche that is often repressed. Encountering a gorilla in dreams may signal confrontation with powerful, unacknowledged emotions or urges. The gorilla's behavior (aggressive, nurturing, caged) mirrors the dreamer's relationship with their own strength, anger, or suppressed instincts. Engaging with the gorilla suggests integration and acceptance, while fleeing from it indicates avoidance or fear of one's own power.

Spiritually, the gorilla can be seen as a totem of raw power, groundedness, and leadership. Dreaming of a gorilla may signal the awakening of inner strength, the need to assert boundaries, or a call to lead with wisdom and compassion. The gorilla's presence may also indicate a spiritual test—balancing power with humility, or learning to channel primal energy toward higher purposes.