Rat/Mouse

Living in the shadows of human civilization, rats and mice represent what is hidden, elusive, and often dismissed. On one hand, they are associated with decay, disease, and gnawing anxieties, symbolizing the parts of ourselves we might find shameful or the persistent worries we try to ignore. They can point to a feeling of being a secretive outsider or a scavenger on the margins. On the other hand, these creatures are ultimate survivors—incredibly tenacious, adaptable, and resourceful. In many myths and folktales, they are heroes and helpers, suggesting that the smallest, most invisible forces can solve the biggest problems. They embody a scrappy, street-smart intelligence and an ability to thrive against all odds, representing the power of the unconscious to work on our problems in unseen ways.

Seeing a rat or mouse in your dream often points to an aspect of your life or personality that you have been neglecting or pushing into the shadows. It might represent a nagging problem, a feeling of guilt, or a personal trait you consider insignificant or unpleasant. However, the dream is also an invitation to recognize the hidden power in what you dismiss. This symbol suggests that your own unacknowledged resourcefulness and resilience can help you 'gnaw' through a difficult situation. Pay attention to the 'small stuff,' as it may hold the key to your survival and growth.