This profound teaching from ancient Hinduism encapsulates a fundamental principle of equality and non-discrimination. It implies that true vision is not just about physical sight but also about perceiving the intrinsic value and humanity in all individuals. Here’s an expansion on this teaching:
1. Spiritual Equality
- Concept of Atman: In Hinduism, the concept of Atman (soul) is central. It is believed that every living being possesses the same divine essence. Recognizing this common spiritual foundation encourages seeing others without prejudice or bias.
- Unity in Diversity: Hindu philosophy often speaks of the oneness of all beings. Despite external differences, the same divine presence resides in every individual, advocating for an egalitarian view of humanity.
2. Compassion and Empathy
- Seeing Beyond Differences: This teaching encourages looking beyond superficial distinctions such as caste, creed, gender, or socio-economic status. It promotes empathy and understanding, fostering a more compassionate society.
- Universal Love: Embracing this principle nurtures universal love and kindness, as it emphasizes the importance of valuing every person equally.
3. Moral and Ethical Vision
- Dharma: In the context of Dharma (moral duty), seeing everyone equally aligns with righteous conduct. It involves treating others with fairness, justice, and respect, which are crucial for maintaining societal harmony.
- Non-Judgmental Attitude: This teaching advocates for a non-judgmental attitude, encouraging individuals to refrain from making hasty or biased judgments about others.
4. Social Harmony
- Reducing Social Strife: By fostering an attitude of equality, this principle helps in reducing social strife and conflicts arising from discrimination and inequality.
- Inclusive Society: It promotes the creation of an inclusive society where everyone feels valued and respected, contributing to overall social stability and peace.
5. Personal Growth and Enlightenment
- Inner Purity: Seeing everyone equally is considered an ornament of the eyes because it reflects inner purity and spiritual maturity. It signifies the cultivation of virtues like humility, selflessness, and wisdom.
- Path to Enlightenment: This vision is seen as a step towards self-realization and enlightenment, as it aligns with the higher spiritual goal of recognizing the oneness of all existence.
6. Practical Application
- Everyday Interactions: In practical terms, this teaching can be applied in everyday interactions by showing respect and kindness to everyone, regardless of their background.
- Social Policies: It also inspires the creation of social policies that ensure equal opportunities and rights for all individuals.
In summary, "Seeing everyone equally is the ornament of the eyes" is a timeless teaching from ancient Hinduism that encourages equality, compassion, and respect for all. It promotes a vision that transcends physical sight and embraces a deeper understanding of the inherent divinity and worth of every individual.