What Does Dreaming of a Butterfly Mean?
Traditional Interpretation
In traditional interpretation, the butterfly is mostly read as good news, renewal, and a lovely stroke of fortune; it is taken as marriage for singles and tidings of a child for the married. According to Ibn Sirin, however, a butterfly can point to a person whose words are grand but whose substance is weak, or to someone possessed of refinement and an artist's soul.
Psychological View
Psychologically, the butterfly symbolizes transformation, liberation, and passage from one stage to another; it can reflect that a person is ready for an inner change, or is emerging lightened from a heavy period. At the same time, the butterfly's fragility touches on beautiful but short-lived emotions and the need to recognize the value of the moment.
By Context
A Fluttering Butterfly, for a Single Person
Interpreted as an auspicious match, a new love, or the approach of a possible marriage; it can be considered a herald of a hopeful period in matters of the heart.
A Fluttering Butterfly, for a Married Person
Mostly read as tidings of a baby, and as abundance and renewal in the family.
A Colorful / Multicolored Butterfly
Interpreted as very auspicious news, affairs going smoothly, and happiness at the door; a white butterfly points to purity and a heart full of love, a blue butterfly to plenty and good friends.
The Butterfly According to Ibn Sirin
May be interpreted as someone whose words are grand but whose substance is weak, who endangers themselves through ignorance; in a more positive reading, it signifies a refined, aesthetic, artistic soul.