Briefly
Eyes have long been regarded as the ‘windows to the soul’, symbolizing a gateway to an individual’s most intimate emotions and thoughts. In literature and art, eyes often represent knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment. They are also associated with perception and awareness, symbolizing our ability to perceive the world around us and to understand deeper truths. From a spiritual perspective, eyes are often seen as a symbol of divine omniscience and a reflection of God’s omnipresent, all-seeing nature.
Eyes in Dreams
Psychologically, eyes appearing in dreams can have a multitude of interpretations. According to Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalysis, dreaming of eyes could signify the dreamer’s fear of being observed or judged. On the other hand, Carl Jung’s school of thought suggests that eyes in dreams may symbolize one’s self-awareness or even self-discovery. Dreaming of bright, open eyes could indicate a realization or an awakening, whereas closed eyes might denote refusal to acknowledge something or avoidance. If you dream about losing your eyesight, it might reflect feelings of being lost or confused in waking life.
Eyes in Myths and Folklore
In many myths, legends and fairy tales across the world, eyes play a crucial role. In Greek mythology, the all-seeing eye of the Cyclops Polyphemus is blinded by Odysseus, symbolizing the vulnerability of brute force in the face of wit and strategy. In Norse mythology, Odin sacrifices one of his eyes at Mimir’s well in exchange for wisdom. This act symbolizes the idea that insight often requires giving up something in return. In Japanese folklore, the three-eyed youkai often possess the ability to see the unseen, further emphasizing the eye’s symbolic association with knowledge and the hidden truths.
Reviewed by Alexander Lys, M.L., a specialist in the field of symbolism research and dream psychology. A certified participant in numerous psychological seminars and courses, the author of hundreds of articles on psychology, including studies on symbolism in dreams and myths from a scientific perspective.
