If I show you this side of my hand, you cannot see the other side of it. This is so about everything. You always see everything in parts. Even if you look at a grain of sand you will look at only one part of it.
All the information that is in your head right now has entered through the five sense organs in bits and pieces. It cannot perceive even a grain of sand in its totality. It perceives everything in parts. If you add the bits you will not get a whole. You will only have bits. No matter how many bits you gather they will never become a whole.
This is why Shiva has always been represented as one with three eyes. When we say "the third eye", we are not talking about your forehead opening up. It is about seeing beyond the sensory eyes. It means that the ability to see has transcended the limitations of sense perception.
Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev
The Concept Of The Third Eye Of Shiva
The "third eye" of Shiva is a concept deeply
rooted in Hindu mythology and spiritual tradition. In Hinduism, Shiva is one of
the principal deities, often associated with destruction, transformation, and
renewal. The idea of the "third eye" is metaphorical and represents
an inner vision or insight that transcends ordinary perception.
Here's an expansion on the concept:
In Hindu iconography, Shiva is often depicted with a third
eye located on his forehead, symbolizing his heightened spiritual insight and
perception. This third eye is believed to possess the power of intuition,
wisdom, and enlightenment. It represents the ability to see beyond the
limitations of the physical world and perceive deeper truths.
The concept of the third eye is not limited to Shiva alone;
it is also found in other spiritual traditions, such as Buddhism and certain
schools of mysticism. In these traditions, the third eye is often associated
with the sixth chakra, known as the "Ajna" chakra, which is located
between the eyebrows.
According to Hindu philosophy, the third eye enables one to
see beyond the illusions of Maya (the material world) and gain insight into the
true nature of existence. It is said to open pathways to higher consciousness
and spiritual awakening.
In practical terms, the activation of the third eye is often
described as the process of inner transformation and self-realization. Through
practices such as meditation, introspection, and mindfulness, individuals seek
to awaken their third eye and cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves
and the universe.
The notion of the third eye seeing "beyond the sensory
eyes" implies that its perception transcends the limitations of the
physical senses. While our ordinary eyes perceive the external world, the third
eye perceives the internal reality, the interconnectedness of all things, and
the underlying spiritual essence that binds everything together.
In essence, the concept of the third eye of Shiva serves as a powerful symbol of spiritual awakening, inner knowledge, and enlightenment, inspiring seekers to delve deeper into the mysteries of existence and discover the divine within themselves.