Ashes represent purification and death and symbolically the perishable human body and mortality. A memory or a learnt wisdom needs to be retained in order for us to use information. After an event or person has gone or disappeared from our lives we may dream of a fire that has burned out, leaving ashes. Ashes in a dream often indicate penitence and sorrow. We are aware that we have been overanxious and stupid within a situation and that there is little left to be done. That situation has outlived its usefulness. The ashes are what remains of our experience, which will enable us to make the best of a situation.