Lion Dream Meaning: Unlocking the Symbolism of Your Subconscious
Quick answer
Dreaming of a lion often symbolizes strength, courage, leadership, and personal power. It can also represent your inner self, dominance, or a situation where you need to stand your ground.
However, the specific lion dream meaning can vary significantly based on the dream’s context, your emotions, and your real-life experiences.
This majestic creature appearing in your dreams could be a call to embrace your inner roar, signaling you to step into your power, or a warning about facing challenges head-on.
What you will discover
Decoding the Lion Dream: Universal Symbolism and Personal Significance
Have you ever woken up from a vivid dream featuring a lion, wondering what message your subconscious was trying to convey?
The lion, a universally recognized symbol of power and courage, often appears in our dreams bearing significant insights. It’s like your mind is sending you an important memo.
The Lion as a Symbol: Power, Courage, and Beyond
The lion, often dubbed the “king of the jungle,” embodies a range of powerful attributes. Think of it as nature’s CEO.
- Strength: Lions are physically imposing creatures, and their presence in a dream can represent your inner reserves of strength. This inner strength can help you overcome obstacles.
- Courage: Known for their bravery, lions symbolize the courage needed to face life’s challenges. Like a lion facing a pack of hyenas, you too can be brave.
- Leadership: As natural leaders of their pride, lions can signify your leadership potential or current role. Are you ready to take charge?
- Authority: Lions exude authority and dominance, reflecting your own sense of control in your life. It shows you have the ability to influence others.
Why Lions Appear in Our Dreams: Exploring the Subconscious
Dreams are often considered windows into our subconscious minds, reflecting our deepest fears, desires, and unresolved issues.
According to “Dream psychology and the evolution of the psycho-analytic situation”, dreams serve as a canvas where our inner world plays out scenarios that can offer valuable insights into our waking lives. Dreams are like a personal movie theater playing scenes from your mind.
The appearance of a lion in a dream can be attributed to several factors:
- Personal Experiences: Recent encounters with lions (even through media) can influence dream content. Watching “The Lion King” might just put a lion in your dreams!
- Emotional State: Feelings of strength, fear, or a need for protection can manifest as a lion in your dream. Are you feeling powerful or vulnerable lately?
- Unresolved Conflicts: The lion might represent a challenge or conflict you’re currently facing. Is there a situation you’re avoiding?
- Cultural Associations: The symbolism of lions varies across cultures, influencing dream interpretation. What does a lion represent in your cultural background?
Setting the Stage: What This Article Will Cover
This article aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of the lion dream meaning. We’ll help you decode the messages from your subconscious.
- We’ll delve into common dream scenarios and their interpretations.
- We’ll explore cultural and spiritual perspectives on lion symbolism.
- We’ll examine the psychological and emotional dimensions of lion dreams.
- Finally, we’ll unveil rarer and more nuanced interpretations of lion dreams.
Quick Summary: Dreaming of a lion taps into deep-seated symbolism related to power, courage, and leadership, offering a glimpse into your subconscious mind and its connection to your waking life. It’s a message from within, waiting to be understood.
Exploring Common Lion Dream Scenarios and Their Interpretations
Now that we’ve established the foundational symbolism of lions, let’s explore some common dream scenarios and what they might signify.
Understanding these scenarios can help you better decipher the lion dream meaning in your own life. Think of it as having a dream dictionary specifically for lions.
Dreaming of a Friendly Lion: Guidance and Opportunities
Encountering a friendly lion in your dream is generally a positive omen. It’s like having a powerful ally on your side.
- Guidance: A friendly lion can symbolize a mentor or guide offering support and wisdom. This guide could be a person or your own intuition.
- Opportunities: This dream might indicate that new opportunities are on the horizon. Be ready to seize them!
- Inner Peace: It could also represent a sense of inner peace and harmony with your own power. You are in alignment with your true self.
Expert Tip: Pay attention to the lion’s behavior and your feelings in the dream.
A sense of comfort and ease suggests that you’re aligned with your true self and on the right path. Trust your instincts.
Being Chased by a Lion: Confronting Challenges and Fears
Being chased by a lion is a common and often unsettling dream. It’s like being pursued by your own anxieties.
- Unresolved Issues: This dream often indicates that you’re running away from a problem or challenge in your waking life. What are you avoiding?
- Suppressed Emotions: The lion might represent suppressed emotions, such as anger or fear, that you’re avoiding. These emotions need to be addressed.
- Fear of Failure: It could also symbolize a fear of failure or a lack of confidence in your abilities. Do you believe in yourself?
Practical Exercise: Identify the specific issue or emotion you might be avoiding.
Write down your fears and concerns, and then brainstorm potential solutions or coping mechanisms. Confront your fears head-on.
Dreaming of an Attacking Lion: Overcoming Obstacles and Regaining Control
Dreaming of an attacking lion can be frightening, but it’s not necessarily a negative sign. It can be a sign of inner conflict.
- External Threats: This dream might represent external threats or challenges you’re facing. Are you feeling under attack in your waking life?
- Internal Conflicts: It could also symbolize internal conflicts or self-sabotaging behaviors. Are you your own worst enemy?
- Regaining Control: Overcoming the attacking lion in your dream signifies your ability to regain control and overcome obstacles. You have the power to conquer your challenges.
Warning: If you dream of being injured or killed by a lion, it might indicate that you’re feeling overwhelmed and powerless in a particular situation.
Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist to help you cope. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Dreaming of Killing a Lion: Conquering Internal Struggles
Killing a lion in a dream is a powerful symbol of overcoming obstacles and inner demons. It’s a sign of victory over your inner struggles.
- Conquering Fears: This dream often represents your ability to conquer your fears and anxieties. You are stronger than you think.
- Overcoming Challenges: It can also symbolize overcoming significant challenges or adversaries in your life. You have the resilience to succeed.
- Personal Transformation: Killing the lion signifies a personal transformation and a newfound sense of strength and empowerment. You are evolving into a stronger version of yourself.
Practical Strategy: Reflect on the challenges you’ve overcome in the past.
Acknowledge your strength and resilience, and use those experiences to fuel your current endeavors. Remember your past victories.
Dreaming of Lion Cubs: New Beginnings and Potential
Lion cubs symbolize new beginnings, potential, and the promise of future strength. They represent the seeds of greatness within you.
- New Projects: This dream might indicate the start of a new project or venture. A new chapter is beginning in your life.
- Emerging Talents: It could also represent emerging talents or skills that are yet to be fully developed. What hidden talents are waiting to be discovered?
- Innocence and Playfulness: Lion cubs can also symbolize innocence, playfulness, and the joy of new experiences. Embrace your inner child.
Fun Fact: Did you know that lion cubs are born blind and completely dependent on their mothers for the first few months of their lives?
This vulnerability highlights the importance of nurturing and protection during new beginnings. Nurture your new beginnings like a lioness cares for her cubs.
Dreaming of a Lioness: Nurturing, Protection, and Feminine Power
The lioness, as the female counterpart to the lion, embodies nurturing, protection, and feminine power. She is the embodiment of strength and compassion.
- Maternal Instincts: This dream often represents strong maternal instincts and a desire to protect loved ones. You are a natural protector.
- Feminine Strength: It can also symbolize feminine strength, resilience, and the power of intuition. Trust your instincts.
- Nurturing Qualities: The lioness embodies nurturing qualities, such as compassion, empathy, and the ability to provide support. You have a caring and supportive nature.
Info: In many African cultures, the lioness is revered as a symbol of fertility, motherhood, and the strength of women. She is a powerful symbol of life and resilience.
Dreaming of a Lion Roaring: Assertiveness, Self-Expression, and Leadership
The roar of a lion is a powerful sound that commands attention. It’s a call to action, a declaration of power.
- Assertiveness: This dream might indicate a need to be more assertive and express your needs and opinions. Don’t be afraid to speak your mind.
- Self-Expression: It can also symbolize the importance of self-expression and finding your voice. Let your voice be heard.
- Leadership Potential: The lion’s roar can represent your leadership potential and the ability to inspire others. You have the power to lead.
Practical Tip: Practice assertiveness techniques, such as using “I” statements and setting clear boundaries. Stand up for yourself.
Dreams with Injured or Sick Lions: Vulnerability and Compassion
Seeing an injured or sick lion in your dream can evoke feelings of sadness and concern. It signifies weakness in a place of power.
- Vulnerability: This dream might represent your own feelings of vulnerability or weakness. Are you feeling exposed or fragile?
- Compassion: It can also symbolize the importance of compassion and caring for those in need. Show kindness to those who are suffering.
- Hidden Weakness: The injured lion could represent a hidden weakness or vulnerability in someone you perceive as strong. Even the strongest can have their weaknesses.
Dreams of Animated or Cartoon Lions: The impact of media and personal experiences
Dreams featuring animated or cartoon lions often reflect the influence of media and personal experiences on our subconscious. They show the effect media has on our mind.
- Nostalgia: These dreams may evoke feelings of nostalgia, reminding you of childhood movies or TV shows featuring lions. Relive your childhood memories.
- Simplified Symbolism: Cartoon lions often represent simplified versions of lion symbolism, such as courage, friendship, or adventure. These are the basic traits of a lion.
- Personal Interpretation: The specific cartoon or animated lion in your dream can hold personal significance based on your memories and associations. What does that cartoon lion mean to you?
Quick Summary: Common lion dream scenarios range from friendly encounters to terrifying attacks, each carrying unique messages about your inner strength, fears, and potential for growth. These dreams are keys to understanding your subconscious.
Lion Symbolism Across Cultures and Spiritual Traditions
The lion dream meaning is not limited to individual interpretations; it’s also deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual traditions.
Exploring these perspectives can provide a broader understanding of the symbolism associated with lions. It’s like seeing the lion through different lenses.
Ancient Egypt: Lions as Guardians and Divine Symbols
In ancient Egypt, lions were revered as powerful guardians and symbols of divine power. They were protectors of the pharaohs and the land.
- Sekhmet: The goddess Sekhmet, depicted with the head of a lioness, was a fierce protector of the pharaohs and the Egyptian people. She was the embodiment of divine power and destruction.
- Guardians of Temples: Statues of lions were often placed at the entrances of temples to ward off evil spirits. They were the gatekeepers of the sacred space.
- Royal Symbolism: Lions were associated with royalty and were often depicted on thrones and other symbols of power. They represented the pharaoh’s strength and authority.
Greco-Roman Traditions: Lions as Symbols of Power and Royalty
In Greco-Roman traditions, lions were associated with power, royalty, and strength. They were symbols of imperial might.
- Symbol of Gods: Lions were often associated with gods and goddesses, such as Apollo and Cybele. They were seen as divine creatures.
- Royal Carriages: Lions were sometimes used to pull the chariots of emperors and other powerful figures. They symbolized the emperor’s dominance and control.
- Gladiatorial Combat: Lions were often used in gladiatorial combat, symbolizing the power and ferocity of the Roman Empire. They represented the empire’s strength and brutality.
African Cultures: Lions as Embodiments of Strength and Leadership
Across many African cultures, lions are revered as symbols of strength, leadership, and courage. They are the kings of the savanna.
- Tribal Totems: In some tribes, lions are considered totems, representing the spirit and identity of the community. They embody the tribe’s values and beliefs.
- Symbols of Royalty: Lions are often associated with royalty and chieftaincy, symbolizing the power and authority of the ruler. They represent the chief’s strength and wisdom.
- Guardians of the Land: Lions are seen as guardians of the land, protecting the community from harm. They are the protectors of the tribe’s territory.
Asian Symbolism: Lions in Buddhism and Other Traditions
In Asian cultures, lions hold diverse symbolic meanings, often associated with protection, courage, and spiritual power. They are protectors of temples and sacred spaces.
- Buddhism: In Buddhism, lions symbolize courage, wisdom, and protection from evil.
They are often depicted as guardians of temples and sacred spaces. They represent the Buddha’s strength and compassion. - Chinese Culture: In Chinese culture, lions are considered auspicious creatures that bring good fortune and ward off evil spirits.
They are often placed in front of homes and businesses as protective symbols. They are the guardians of the household. - Other Traditions: Lions also appear in other Asian traditions, such as Hinduism and Shintoism, as symbols of power, strength, and divine protection. They represent the strength and protection of the gods.
Spiritual and Shamanic Perspectives: The Lion as a Power Animal
In spiritual and shamanic traditions, the lion is often seen as a power animal, offering guidance and support to those who connect with its energy. It’s a spirit guide offering its strength.
- Courage and Strength: The lion as a power animal can provide courage and strength to face challenges. It empowers you to overcome obstacles.
- Leadership Abilities: It can also enhance leadership abilities and help you step into your power. It encourages you to take charge and lead with confidence.
- Protection and Guidance: The lion can offer protection and guidance on your spiritual journey. It watches over you and helps you stay on the right path.
Practical Exercise: To connect with the lion as a power animal, try meditating on its image or spending time in nature, visualizing its presence and asking for its guidance. Open yourself to its energy.
Biblical Interpretations: Lions Representing Divine Power
In the Bible, lions are often used to represent divine power, strength, and justice. They are symbols of God’s power and authority.
- Symbol of Christ: The Lion of Judah is a symbol of Jesus Christ, representing his power and authority. He is the king of kings.
- Testing of Faith: The story of Daniel in the lions’ den is a testament to faith and divine protection. It shows the power of faith in the face of adversity.
- Warning of Judgment: Lions can also symbolize God’s judgment and the consequences of sin. They represent the consequences of straying from the righteous path.
Quick Summary: From ancient Egypt to modern-day spiritual practices, the lion has been a powerful symbol across cultures, representing divine power, leadership, protection, and the strength to overcome challenges. The lion’s symbolism is timeless and universal.
Psychological and Emotional Dimensions of Lion Dreams
Beyond cultural symbolism, lion dreams also tap into our individual psychological and emotional landscapes.
Understanding these dimensions can provide a more personalized lion dream meaning. It’s about understanding what the lion means to you.
The Lion and the Ego: Power, Identity, and Self-Image
The lion in a dream can often represent the ego, reflecting our sense of power, identity, and self-image. It mirrors how we see ourselves.
- Healthy Ego: A confident and well-balanced lion can symbolize a healthy ego and a strong sense of self. You have a positive and realistic view of yourself.
- Inflated Ego: An arrogant or aggressive lion might indicate an inflated ego and a need for humility. You may need to check your pride.
- Weakened Ego: A timid or fearful lion could represent a weakened ego and a lack of self-confidence. You may need to build your self-esteem.
Quote: Carl Jung, the renowned Swiss psychiatrist, believed that the ego is the center of consciousness and plays a crucial role in shaping our sense of self and our interactions with the world. The ego is the lens through which we experience reality.
Exploring the Shadow Self: The Lion as Repressed Instincts
The lion can also represent the shadow self, the part of our personality that contains repressed instincts, desires, and emotions. It’s the hidden side of ourselves.
- Unacknowledged Anger: A ferocious lion might symbolize unacknowledged anger or aggression. You may be suppressing your anger.
- Suppressed Desires: It could also represent suppressed desires or impulses that we’re afraid to acknowledge. What are you afraid to admit to yourself?
- Integration of Shadow: Integrating the shadow self involves acknowledging and accepting these repressed aspects of our personality. It’s about embracing the full spectrum of who you are, both light and dark.
Practical Strategy: Journaling can be a powerful tool for exploring your shadow self.
Write about your fears, insecurities, and negative emotions without judgment. Give your shadow a voice.
Connecting to Inner Strength: Overcoming Fears and Challenges
Lion dreams often serve as a reminder of our inner strength and our ability to overcome fears and challenges. They remind us of our resilience.
- Resilience: The lion symbolizes resilience and the ability to bounce back from adversity. You have the power to overcome any obstacle.
- Courage: It encourages us to tap into our courage and face our fears head-on. Be brave and face your challenges with confidence.
- Empowerment: Lion dreams can be empowering, reminding us of our potential and our ability to achieve our goals. You have the power to create the life you want.
Testimonial: “After having a dream about a lion, I felt a surge of confidence and determination.
I realized that I had the strength to overcome the challenges I was facing and pursue my dreams with unwavering focus.” – Sarah M. Her lion dream boosted her confidence.
Lion Dreams and Attachment Styles: How Relationships Influence Dream Symbolism
Our attachment styles, which reflect how we relate to others in relationships, can also influence the symbolism of lion dreams. How we connect with others impacts our dreams.
- Secure Attachment: Individuals with secure attachment styles might dream of friendly and supportive lions, reflecting their healthy relationships. They feel safe and secure in their connections.
- Anxious Attachment: Those with anxious attachment styles might dream of being chased or attacked by lions, symbolizing their fears of abandonment or rejection. They fear losing their loved ones.
- Avoidant Attachment: Individuals with avoidant attachment styles might dream of solitary lions, reflecting their desire for independence and emotional distance. They value their independence and may avoid close relationships.
Dream Elicitation Techniques: Guiding Your Subconscious to Explore Lion Symbolism
Dream elicitation techniques can help you actively engage with your subconscious and explore lion symbolism in a more intentional way. Take control of your dream exploration.
- Dream Incubation: Before going to sleep, focus on a specific question or intention related to lion symbolism. Plant the seed for your dream.
- Dream Journaling: Keep a dream journal and record your lion dreams in detail, noting your emotions, the lion’s behavior, and the overall context. Document your dream journey.
- Lucid Dreaming: Practice lucid dreaming techniques to become aware that you’re dreaming and consciously interact with the lion in your dream. Take the reins of your dream.
Quick Summary: The psychological and emotional dimensions of lion dreams delve into our ego, shadow self, inner strength, and attachment styles, offering a personalized understanding of the dream’s message. It’s about understanding the unique meaning for you.
Unveiling Rarer Lion Dream Meanings
While we’ve covered common lion dream scenarios, there are also rarer and more nuanced interpretations to explore.
These less frequent dreams can offer unique insights into your subconscious. Discover the hidden layers of lion dreams.
Dreams of Extinct Lion Types: Saber-Toothed Tigers and Ancestral Power
Dreaming of extinct lion types, such as saber-toothed tigers, can tap into a sense of ancestral power and primal instincts. Connect with your ancient roots.
- Ancient Strength: These dreams might represent a connection to ancient sources of strength and resilience. Tap into the power of your ancestors.
- Untamed Instincts: Saber-toothed tigers can symbolize untamed instincts and primal urges. Embrace your wild side.
- Evolutionary Heritage: They might also reflect an awareness of our evolutionary heritage and the power of our ancestors. Acknowledge your primal origins.
Dreams of Lions in Specific Locations: Mountains, Deserts, and Shifting Symbolism
The location where the lion appears in your dream can significantly alter its symbolism. Location, location, location!
- Mountains: Lions in mountainous regions can represent challenges, ambition, and the pursuit of higher goals. Aim for the summit.
- Deserts: Lions in deserts might symbolize isolation, resilience, and the need to conserve energy. Preserve your resources in times of scarcity.
- Jungles: Lions in jungles can represent primal instincts, hidden dangers, and the unknown. Navigate the mysteries of the unknown.
Dreams of Hybrid Lions (e.g., Gryphons): Combining Traits and Archetypes
Dreaming of hybrid lions, such as gryphons (lion-eagle hybrids), can combine the traits and archetypes of both animals. It’s a fusion of symbolic meanings.
- Gryphons: Gryphons often symbolize wisdom, courage, and spiritual power, combining the lion’s strength with the eagle’s vision. A powerful combination of earth and sky.
- Other Hybrids: Other lion hybrids can represent unique combinations of traits and qualities, depending on the animals involved. The possibilities are endless.
Dreams of Lion Sounds (Roaring, Growling): Unconscious Warnings and Expressions
Even without visually seeing a lion, hearing its sounds in your dream can carry significant meaning. Listen closely to the lion’s voice.
- Roaring: A lion’s roar can represent assertiveness, leadership, and the need to express yourself. Let your voice be heard loud and clear.
- Growling: A lion’s growl might symbolize warning, threat, or suppressed anger. Pay attention to potential dangers.
Dreams of Interacting with Lions as a Group: Social Dynamics and Belonging
Dreaming of interacting with lions as a group can reflect your social dynamics and sense of belonging. It mirrors your place in the social world.
- Pride Dynamics: The behavior of the lions in the group can mirror your own social interactions and relationships. Reflect on your social connections.
- Sense of Belonging: Feeling accepted and supported by the lion group can symbolize a strong sense of belonging. You feel accepted and supported.
- Social Conflicts: Conflicts within the lion group might represent social conflicts or challenges in your waking life. Address conflicts in your social circle.
Lucid Dreaming and Lion Encounters: Consciously Interacting with Dream Symbolism
Lucid dreaming offers a unique opportunity to consciously interact with lion symbolism and gain deeper insights. Take control and explore the lion’s wisdom.
- Asking Questions: In a lucid dream, you can ask the lion questions and receive direct answers from your subconscious. Seek guidance from your inner wisdom.
- Exploring Fears: You can confront your fears by facing the lion in a safe and controlled environment. Challenge your anxieties in a safe space.
- Seeking Guidance: You can seek guidance from the lion on your personal and spiritual journey. Let the lion guide you on your path.
Dreams with Lions and Other Animals: Snakes, Elephants, and Combined Meanings
The presence of other animals alongside lions in your dream can further enrich its meaning. The animal kingdom joins the dream.
- Lions and Snakes: Lions and snakes can represent the conflict between courage and fear, or the integration of primal instincts with wisdom. Balance courage with wisdom.
- Lions and Elephants: Lions and elephants might symbolize the balance between power and compassion, or the need to protect the vulnerable. Use your power to protect the weak.
Quick Summary: Exploring rarer lion dream meanings, such as extinct lion types, specific locations, hybrid creatures, and interactions with other animals, can unlock deeper layers of understanding and personal insight. Dive deeper into the world of lion dreams.
Conclusion
Dreaming of lions is a powerful experience that can offer profound insights into your inner world.
The lion dream meaning encompasses a wide range of symbolism, from strength and courage to leadership and personal power.
By exploring common dream scenarios, cultural perspectives, psychological dimensions, and rarer interpretations, you can unlock the hidden messages of your subconscious and gain a deeper understanding of yourself.
Embrace the roar within you, and let the lion guide you on your journey to self-discovery and empowerment. Unleash your inner lion!
FAQ
What does it mean if a lion doesn’t attack in my dream?
If a lion doesn’t attack in your dream, it often signifies that you’re in a position of strength and control, or that you’re at peace with your own power. You feel secure and confident.
It could also mean that you’re being observed or tested, but not threatened. You are being evaluated, not attacked.
Is dreaming about a lion a good or bad omen?
Dreaming about a lion is not inherently good or bad. The meaning depends on the dream’s context.
Its meaning depends on the context of the dream and your personal experiences. Pay attention to the details.
A friendly lion can be a positive omen, while an attacking lion might indicate challenges or fears. Interpret the dream based on your feelings.
What does it signify if I dream about being a lion?
Dreaming of being a lion suggests that you identify with the qualities of strength, courage, and leadership. You see yourself as powerful and capable.
It might also indicate a desire for more power or control in your life, or a need to embrace your assertiveness. You want to take charge and lead.
How do my personal experiences affect my lion dream interpretation?
Your personal experiences play a crucial role in shaping the meaning of your lion dreams. Your history shapes your dreams.
Recent encounters with lions (even through media), your emotional state, and your cultural background can all influence the dream’s symbolism. Consider your personal context.
What is the spiritual significance of seeing a white lion in my dream?
Seeing a white lion in your dream often signifies spiritual enlightenment, purity, and divine guidance. You are on a spiritual path.
It may indicate that you’re on the right path spiritually or that you’re being protected by higher powers. You are being guided and protected.
Why am I having recurring dreams about lions?
Recurring dreams about lions often indicate that there’s an unresolved issue or a message that your subconscious is trying to convey. There’s something you need to address.
Pay close attention to the details of the dream and your emotions to identify the underlying cause. Explore the recurring theme.
What should I do after having a vivid dream about a lion?
After having a vivid dream about a lion, take time to reflect on the dream’s details and your emotions. Process the dream’s message.
Journaling, meditation, or talking to a trusted friend or therapist can help you process the dream’s message and integrate its insights into your waking life. Reflect, analyze, and integrate.
Is there any scientific research on why we dream of animals like lions?
While direct scientific research specifically focused on “lion dreams” is limited, studies in dream psychology and neuroscience offer some insights. Research suggests that animal dreams can be linked to our emotions, instincts, and archetypal representations.
Expert Insight: According to a study on dream recall and content, individuals with higher levels of absorption and permeable psychological boundaries are more likely to recall vivid dreams, including those featuring animals. This suggests that our personality traits and cognitive styles can influence the types of dreams we experience.
Warning: It’s important to note that dream interpretation is subjective and should not be used as a substitute for professional psychological advice. However, understanding the potential psychological and emotional dimensions of your dreams can be a valuable tool for self-discovery.
