Eye Want to Believe
The concept of the third eye is a common one, generally, the third eye, or the mind’s eye is an esoteric concept of a theoretical eye located in the center of the forehead which allows its user to ascertain unknown information or to gain perception beyond ordinary sight.
Many different religions and spiritualities refer to the third eye in their teachings. The Ajna, or the brow chakra, correlates to the mind's eye in Indian Dharmic traditions, the Hindus place a "tilaka" in the same location, representative of the third eye, whose image has been depicted on the deity Shiva.
Therefore, the third eye has been associated with a deeper, more profound, and cosmic understanding, and those who possess the ability to access it, often claim unique spiritual ability.
While fascinating, could there be a scientific explanation for the third eye?
Adherents of theosophist H.P. Blavatsky have suggested that the third eye is in fact the partially dormant, pine cone shaped pineal gland, which resides between the two hemispheres of the brain.
Reptiles and amphibians sense light via a third parietal eye—a structure associated with the pineal gland—which serves to regulate their circadian rhythms, and for navigation, as it can sense the polarization of light.
Thus, one can assume early humans, may have had a more defined pineal gland, one which helped to determine environmental stimuli, perhaps beyond those of their reptile counterparts.
A popular theory, states that humans had an actual third eye located in the back of the head which served both physical and spiritual functions. Unfortunately, over time, as humans evolved in a more physical sense, this eye atrophied, absorbed into the body and is known as the modern day pineal gland.
Various scientist have hypothesized that the pineal gland, which is still light sensitive, may be responsible for the production and release of DMT (dimethyltryptamine), a naturally produced chemical, that produces a psychoactive response similar to other entheogens.
While this concept, like many other metaphysical beliefs, are controversial, one cannot deny the fascination humans have had with their link to the heavens and the vast information swirling through the universe.
Perhaps the reason we ponder the universe is we desire to recognize ourselves, and feel peace knowing we share the same depth, complexity and beauty.
For more information, on the third eye, or other metaphysical topics stop by Altar Egos, we would love to talk with you!
Ryan and Dani
Altar Egos ~ 208.968.1031 ~ alteregosboise.com
1522 S. Vista Ave, Boise ID 83705