I used to see dreams (and was so much perturbed) that I began to quiver and have temperature, but did not cover myself with a mantle. I met Abu Qatada and made a mention of that to him. He said: I heard Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying: A good vision comes from Allah and a (bad) dream (hulm) from devil. So when one of you sees a bad dream (hulm) which he does not like, he should spit on his left side thrice and seek refuge with Allah from its evil; then it will not harm him.
The Book of Dreams - Sahih Muslim 2261a
This narration from Abu Qatada al-Ansari, preserved in Sahih Muslim, addresses the Islamic perspective on dreams and nightmares. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) provides crucial theological distinction: good visions are from Allah as glad tidings or warnings, while disturbing dreams are from Shaytan, intended to cause fear and distress.
Scholarly Commentary on Dream Classification
Classical scholars like Imam Nawawi explain that "ru'ya" (good vision) is a true dream that may contain divine inspiration, while "hulm" (bad dream) originates from Satanic whispers and worldly anxieties. The physical symptoms described - quivering and fever - demonstrate the real psychological impact of nightmares.
The term "did not cover myself with a mantle" indicates the narrator's adherence to proper Islamic etiquette - one should not discuss bad dreams immediately upon waking nor give them undue significance by excessive attention.
Prescribed Remedial Actions
The threefold spitting (without saliva) to the left side symbolizes rejection of Satan's influence, as the left is traditionally associated with impurity in Islamic tradition. This physical action should be accompanied by seeking refuge in Allah from the dream's evil.
Scholars emphasize that these measures should be performed discreetly without informing others, as public disclosure might amplify the dream's negative effects. The assurance "it will not harm him" provides both spiritual and psychological comfort to believers.
Practical Implementation
Traditional commentators advise performing this remedy immediately upon waking while still in bed. One should turn away from the direction they were sleeping facing, offer two rak'ahs of prayer if possible, and refrain from interpreting the dream negatively.
This teaching demonstrates Islam's comprehensive approach to human psychology, addressing both spiritual protection and mental well-being through prescribed actions that reinforce tawakkul (reliance on Allah).