rüya

Rüya is a Turkish word that translates to "dream" in English. It encompasses the subjective experience of images, ideas, emotions, and sensations that occur involuntarily in the mind during certain stages of sleep. These experiences can range from vivid and coherent narratives to fragmented and surreal sequences.

Dreams have been a subject of fascination and study across cultures and throughout history. Various theories attempt to explain their purpose and origin. Some suggest dreams are a way for the brain to process information, consolidate memories, or work through emotional experiences. Others propose they may be symbolic expressions of unconscious desires or anxieties, as explored in psychoanalytic theories.

The scientific study of dreams, known as oneirology, investigates the neurological processes involved in dreaming. Research indicates that dreaming is most strongly associated with the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep, although it can occur in other stages as well. While the precise function of dreaming remains an active area of research, the universal nature of the experience highlights its significance in human consciousness. The concept of rüya plays a role in Turkish folklore and art, often interpreted as omens, messages, or reflections of the inner self.