Mystical Perspectives on the Symbolism of the Eye

The symbol of the eye is widespread in mystical writings, and it covers a wide spectrum of meanings and intents. This is due, no doubt, to the fact that visual perception involves a multiplicity of aspects and standpoints. The following study, based on scriptural and mystical excerpts from Christian, Platonic, Hindu, and Islamic sources, is limited to a consideration of the metaphysical and spiritual implications of some of the most salient symbolic orientations of the eye. They are the need to correct one’s visual perception, the capacity of the eye to see reality as it is, the inward vision of the heart, and the shift from human eyewitness to divine eyewitness. The following analytic commentaries aim at providing introductory insights into the ways the eye functions as a medium between duality and non-duality.