In previous times being a martyr inevitably meant that suffering was involved. We may perceive the need, spiritually, to become a victim, sacrificing ourselves on others? behalf and thus give our life some meaning. Such actions can be perceived as honourable provided they arise from the correct motivation. Dreaming of a religious martyr often signifies that we need to question our own religious beliefs and upbringing, and our strength of purpose and commitment. We are perhaps allowing excessive enthusiasm to guide us. Actually experiencing ourselves in dreams as playing the martyr highlights our tendency to do things without being sufficiently assertive to say no, and to act from a sense of duty. When we are aware of someone else being a martyr we may have too high expectations of that person. You might also like to consult the entries for Fanatic and Victim.