Exploring Meditation and the Mystery of Purple Light: Beyond the Third Eye Chakra
Meditation is a powerful tool for self-exploration and spiritual growth. During meditation, it's not uncommon to experience visual phenomena, such as the appearance of colors like purple. This article aims to demystify the experience of seeing purple during meditation, explain its relation (or lack thereof) to the Third Eye chakra, and offer insights into its deeper significance.
Finding Answers in Phosphenes
The colors we see during meditation, such as the common and often striking purple hues, are primarily the result of phosphenes. These are patterns of light that form in the retina of our eyes when they are closed or when there is no external light source. Phosphenes can be influenced by a variety of factors, including eye movement, pressure on the eyeballs, and brain activity. Despite their enchanting nature, these colors do not necessarily signify higher spiritual states or activation of the Third Eye chakra.
The Third Eye: More than Just Sight
The concept of the Third Eye, also known as the Ajna chakra, is often misunderstood. The Third Eye is not strictly related to sight but rather is considered an energy center located in the middle of the brain, roughly at the position between the eyebrows where Hindus place their bindi. This chakra is associated with deeper spiritual understanding, intuition, and a higher level of consciousness. It is believed that the Third Eye chakra is 'closed' and remains so until an individual reaches a state of egolessness and compassion similar to that of Christ, a process that many believe takes a lifetime of dedicated effort.
Enlightenment and the Here and Now
The path to enlightenment is often described as being present and fully aware of the present moment. According to J. Krishnamurti, a renowned philosopher, 'As long as you are a Seeker, you will not Find.' Enlightenment is said to be closely tied to being completely present and available for the present, as Alan Watts, a leading Western philosopher of religion, once stated: 'To be enlightened is to be completely here and now, completely alert and available for the Present because that is the only place you are ever going to BE.'
Understanding Purple Light: A Sign of Peace and Harmony
Seeing purple during meditation is not indicative of higher spiritual status or Third Eye chakra activation. Rather, it is a reflection of the current state of your chakras and the elements they represent. Purple is often associated with the Crown chakra, which is linked to peace and harmony. It’s important to recognize that each chakra has its own unique color and corresponding elements, but the experience of seeing a particular color during meditation is not a definitive marker of one's spiritual progress. Instead, it’s part of the rich tapestry of subconscious expressions that arise during meditation.
Chakra Colors and Their Meanings
Each chakra is associated with a specific color, but these colors are not exclusive identifiers of the chakra's state. The Crown chakra, for example, is often represented by purple, which symbolizes peace and enlightenment. In contrast, the Third Eye chakra is associated with the color indigo. Understanding these colors can provide valuable insights into the state of your chakras and your overall spiritual well-being.
Enjoying the Journey
While it’s natural to seek significance in the experiences during meditation, it’s essential to embrace them humorously and with detachment. The vivid colors, including purple, are merely manifestations of the subconscious mind and energy centers within your body. Rather than interpreting these experiences in a rigid or dogmatic way, allow yourself to simply observe and appreciate them. The journey towards higher consciousness is a mysterious and beautiful one, and every experience, no matter how fleeting or enigmatic, contributes to the richness of the journey.
In conclusion, the experience of seeing purple during meditation is a fascinating and enigmatic phenomenon. It is important to recognize that this color does not necessarily signify a higher spiritual state or Third Eye chakra activation. Instead, it is part of the broader spectrum of consciousness and subconscious expression, reflecting the current state of your chakras and the elements they represent. By understanding the deeper meanings behind these colors and the chakras, you can cultivate a greater awareness of your spiritual journey and embrace the mystery and joy that meditation offers.