Hearing God's Voice in DreamsA–Z symbolsStaff and Rod in a dream
Biblical meaning from Hearing God's Voice in Dreams by Apostle Nicholas V. Mbanjwa
Also: Shepherd's staff, Rod and staff, Rod, Staff
What it means
The staff represents strength and support; the rod represents leadership and the authority to guide.
Comfort and peace — Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.
The rod is also the instrument of correction and of demonstrated authority: Moses' rod became a serpent, divided the sea and struck the rock.
✦ When it is positive
- Leadership responsibility
- Support in weakness
- Comfort in the valley of the shadow
⚠ When it is a warning
- A rod of correction
- A staff broken, representing support removed
- Authority used to strike rather than to guide
How to tell the difference
Distinguish the STAFF (leaning, support, sustaining) from the ROD (directing, correcting, authority). Note whether the dreamer leans on it, carries it, is guided by it, or is struck with it.
Scripture
2The LORD said to him, “What is that in your hand?” He said, “A rod.” 3He said, “Throw it on the ground.” He threw it on the ground, and it became a snake; and Moses ran away from it. 4The LORD said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand, and take it by the tail.” He stretched out his hand, and took hold of it, and it became a rod in his hand.
Exodus 4:2-4 (WEB)
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psalm 23:4 (WEB)
One who spares the rod hates his son, but one who loves him is careful to discipline him.
Proverbs 13:24 (WEB)
Shepherd your people with your staff, the flock of your heritage, who dwell by themselves in a forest. Let them feed in the middle of fertile pasture land, in Bashan and Gilead, as in the days of old.
Micah 7:14 (WEB)