Eyes are probably the most important symbolic sensory organ. They can represent clairvoyance, omniscience, and/or a gateway into the soul. Other qualities that eyes are commonly associated with are: intelligence, light, vigilance, moral conscience, and truth. Looking someone in the eye is a western custom of honesty. In this way covering of the eyes, by wearing a helmet, sunglasses, etc. can mean mystery, not seeing the complete truth, or deceit. However, in other cultural contexts the obscuring of the eyes can convey respect (Asian) or modesty and submission (many middle eastern women wear VEILS for this purpose). The eye often means judgment and authority. Jung considers its original symbol as the eternal bosom with the pupil its 'child.' It is the place where love begins (ending at the mouth).
Different colors of the eyes carry different meanings: blue - a sign of being
in love, innocence; green - jealousy, a sign of distrust, rarity; red - demonic,
weeping, fury. Different numbers of eyes have different meanings as well: one
- subhuman, divine omniscience, superhuman (usually negative); two - normality,
both physically and spiritually; three - superhuman powers, can be either benevolent
or malevolent; multiple - stars and darkness.
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