What Do Rainbows Symbolize? Spiritual Meanings & More

You step outside after a storm, taking in the smell of the rain, when you look up to find a rainbow in the distance. You instantly smile, a rush of relief and happiness washing over you. Why do you feel this way? What’s so special about this colorful arc anyway? While rainbows can mean something special to each person, they also have a few universal meanings. Take a look at the spiritual definitions and symbolism below to discover why rainbows are so uplifting.

Things You Should Know

Rainbows are universal symbols of hope, love, happiness, and acceptance.
When you see a rainbow, it may be a message of hope from a deceased loved one or guardian angel.
Noticing a rainbow could signify that you’re on a spiritual journey. The colorful arc is a good omen, representing a new, hopeful beginning.

Section 1 of 6:

What does a rainbow symbolize?

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Rainbows symbolize happiness. Chances are, when you see a rainbow, you immediately smile. That’s because the cheerful colors in a rainbow’s curving arc are an instant mood booster.
- It’s been scientifically proven that colors can influence your mood, so seeing 7 bright, glorious colors appear in the sky can help you feel joyful.^{[1]
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Rainbows are universal signs of hope. A rainbow can only be spotted right after a rain shower when the sun hits leftover water droplets just right.^{[2]
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Research source} This natural phenomenon is what makes rainbows a symbol of hope—their beauty only appears after the harshest conditions. If a rainbow can shine amongst the darkest clouds, so can you.
- For instance, in the Bible, a rainbow appears after the worldwide flood over Noah’s ark in the book of Genesis. This represents the hope of a new world and a fresh start.^{[3]
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Rainbows are a sign of good luck. Perhaps you’re familiar with tales of leprechauns guarding their pots of gold at the end of a rainbow. Many believe that rainbows are symbols of good fortune because of these legends, so make a wish when you see one!
- Believe it or not, the Irish originally viewed rainbows as representations of goals, as a leprechaun’s pot of gold would continue to move further and further away when the traveler approached.^{[4]
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Rainbows represent love and acceptance. Who would’ve thought that 7 drastically different colors could come together and make something so beautiful? Well, that very thought makes rainbows a universal symbol of love, diversity, and acceptance. If these colors can unite to form something so lovely, why can’t people of different genders, races, and religions?
- In 1978, the rainbow was officially recognized as a symbol of the LGBTQ+ community, symbolizing that all love is love.^{[5]
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Section 2 of 6:

Spiritual Significance of Rainbows

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Spotting a rainbow could be a sign of a new beginning. Some believe rainbows are messages from angels that a positive change is just around the corner. So, take a moment to listen to the universe or pray. Follow your intuition because your angels know you’re on the right path.
- Go into change with an open mind. We know new things can be scary, so think of it this way: when life closes one door, another more amazing one can open.
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You may be on a spiritual journey if you see a rainbow. A rainbow appearing out of the blue might a sign of encouragement from your guardian angel. Perhaps you’re experiencing a spiritual awakening—you’re on a path to becoming the best version of yourself. Your angels are letting you know they have your back.
- Take a moment to reflect on your spiritual journey so far. Have you been aligning your energy to best serve you? If not, try balancing your chakras, taking a nature walk, or doing yoga.
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Rainbows may indicate that a passed loved one is near. In many cultures, a rainbow is a message from someone who recently passed away. Perhaps it’s a portal from the spirit world opening or a simple “hello.” Either way, seeing a rainbow after someone dies could be a sign that they’re closer than you think.
- Whisper a message back to your loved one when you see a rainbow. After all, they may be waiting for your reply.
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A rainbow aura could be a sign of wellness and health. Spiritually, if someone has a rainbow aura, their energy is healthy and able to flow freely. While rare, this aura indicates an empathetic, passionate soul with a deep personal connection to the spirit world.^{[6]
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- If you have a rainbow aura, an aura reader will see more than one color in your energy field.
- Wondering if you have a rainbow aura? Take our “What Is My Color Aura?” quiz to find out.

Section 3 of 6:

What does seeing a rainbow mean for romantic relationships?

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The spirits want you to accept love into your life. Maybe you went through a rough breakup and still have those walls up, or you recently lost someone close to you. No matter the situation, the universe and your angels are letting you know it’s okay to move on. Perhaps it’s time to let go of the past and put yourself out there.
- Try calling up a friend you haven’t seen in a while to rekindle an old friendship. Love isn’t only about romantic relationships, after all.
- Consider signing up for a dating app to start dating again. Who knows? You may just meet someone special who brings your walls crashing down.
  - Not sure which dating app to try? Take our “Which Dating App Should I Use?” quiz to find the right one for you.
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A rainbow may signify a new stage of your relationship. If you’re in a relationship, spotting a rainbow could be a sign that things are about to change for the better. Perhaps you’ve been unhappy in the relationship and looking for a way out, or you’re hoping your partner’s ready to take things to the next step. Either way, your romantic life might change in your favor.
- Have an open conversation with your partner about their wants and needs in the relationship. Do your thoughts align with theirs? If not, express that.

Section 4 of 6:

What does it mean when you dream about a rainbow?

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If you dream of a rainbow, a positive change could be coming your way. Say you’re about to start a new job, move to a new city, or graduate. Seeing a rainbow in your dreams might mean the current chapter of your life is closing on a happy note. Change is upon you, but you don’t need to worry—your guardian angels have your back.
- Keep in mind that interpreting dreams is extremely personal. So, have an open mind and consider why seeing a rainbow is symbolic to you.
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Dreaming of rainbows can also inspire you creatively. If no immediate changes are happening in your waking life, spotting a rainbow in a dream could be a sign to tap into your creative potential. Explore a new hobby, like writing, singing, or painting, or fall back into a passion project. By sending you a rainbow in your dreams, the spirit world is telling you to be creative.^{[7]
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- Think of the rainbow in your dream as a bridge guiding you toward your passions and creative endeavors.

Section 5 of 6:

What does a double rainbow mean?

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Double rainbows are spiritual signs of success and opportunity. Seeing a double rainbow is definitely a sight to behold! These magical phenomena are rare to spot, making their spiritual significance even more important. In other words, a double rainbow has double the meaning of a regular rainbow. It amplifies your luck and success, helping your spiritual energy grow.^{[8]
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- When you see a double rainbow, make a wish. This is a good omen, and great things are coming your way, so use the double rainbow’s energy to manifest what you seek.

Section 6 of 6:

Can rainbows have a negative meaning?

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In the 1939 musical The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy sings, “Birds fly over the rainbow—why then, oh why, can’t I?” The song “Over the Rainbow” alludes to a young girl's desire for adventure. Similarly to Dorothy, some see rainbows as a representation of unattainable dreams or false hope.^{[9]
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