The third eye concept might already be familiar to you, a popular symbol in the new wave of mindfulness sweeping the planet that has very ancient roots. I am no expert on the subject, but I know the concept primarily stems from Hinduism, where the third eye, or the Ajna, is located in the forehead, hence why it is known as the brow chakra. In simple terms, it is believed to provide perception beyond ordinary sight, to awaken a capacity to truly observe, not just with the mind’s judgments and analyses of what our eyes “see”, but as a conscious spectator of one’s life and all around it—simultaneously living in the moment and observing it.
In a recent trip to Egypt I encountered the eye of Horus. You might also recognize this symbol; it’s quite popular and can be considered the Egyptian version of the third eye. Over the years, it has been referred to in various interpretations of Egyptian mythology as the protecting eye, Eye of the Mind, Third Eye, Eye of Truth or Insight, The Healing Eye, and the Eye of God. These names were given due to the ancient Egyptians’ belief in its mystical powers. if you wish to learn more about this symbol, here is a little video on it:
This symbol was of great importance to me. As I walked through the Egyptian tombs and temples, observing the hieroglyphics’ ancient spells, I would often find myself spiraling into my own fantasy land, I would ponder on the messages of all the spells, on all the basic knowledge that has been lost through the generations… and then I would see the eye of Horus. Immediately it would bring me back to my body, to observe again, it worked exactly like a spell, a reminder to stay present and simply see – “analysis can be done afterword’s a voice in my head would say.”
The Eye of Horus, symbolizing the oversight of a falcon, prompted me to transcend my role as a tourist, moving beyond the monuments and mystical stories on ancient walls. As a photographer, it empowered me to use my camera as a tool for all-encompassing observation. Reminded constantly to stay present by the symbol, I could authentically perceive everything—the historical narratives on the walls, the present colors, smells, and feelings, as well as the vibrant life of the Egyptians along the Nile. Embracing the role of a true spectator and observer, my thoughts ceased to plague me; I became fully present, attuned to the surroundings. It felt like delving into a new world, where I transformed from a character to a witness and record keeper of someone else's movie.
Before my trip to Egypt, I consistently drew the eye of Horus in my notebook, intending to cultivate the third eye's ability. I now see the symbol everywhere, in nature, in the city, painted on walls, napkins, in paintings it is the cue to my brain to detach and observe, to leave my thoughts and breathe and be present. I have trained my mind to its meaning with my magic journal and while doing so, I realized the power I possess to direct and scriptwrite my life, and with this symbol in particular, to also observe myself acting it out.
More links:
The eye of Horus historical explanation
The connections of the Eye of Horus and the pineal gland:
The eye of Horus mystical explanation:
Science of the third eye & pineal gland :
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