Hands connect us with people, with the world, and are used in creative projects. If emphasized in a dream, consider their position, potential action, and any special decoration for additional clues. In Jungian theory left hands symbolize feminine or receptive attributes, right hands symbolize masculine or active attributes. They are the agency of consciousness and any injury; therefore, they could represent wounding or impotency of the ego consciousness.
The many idioms associated with hands tell us that hands are definitely a form of communication and can symbolize a number of messages. Do you need a handout or need to lend helping hand to another or to some aspect of yourself? Is your waking policy one of hands off? Perhaps there is some person or situation you need to handle with kid gloves. Something that is handed down or handed over to you or clothes that are hand me downs offer messages about your family situation, self esteem or impoverished aspects of yourself that need more recognition. Is there a verbal message in the dream that is changed by hand placement or movement?
For instance, hands folded across the body can indicate defensiveness or protection. Is there something you need to take hold of.

See also arm, body, fingers, holding.