The Third Eye Within Us All

Biologically, most animals including humans, birds, reptiles, fish, and mammals have two eyes. But unlike other animals, humans possess something extra: a hidden “third eye.” This may sound strange, you might wonder, where is this third eye located?

The great works of civilization, from the obelisk of Axum and the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela to the wonders of world history, were born from the use of this third eye.

Our physical eyes are limited. They allow us to see only our immediate surroundings. Animals, too, are confined to their physical environment. But humans have been endowed with something more. So, what is this third eye?

It is imagination.

Imagination, the mind’s eye, enables us to break free from physical limits. It is what allowed Mozart to compose timeless classics, Da Vinci to envision inventions centuries ahead of his time, and Einstein to make breakthroughs that reshaped science.

If a person loses their physical sight, life certainly changes, but history shows that true blindness is not of the eyes, but of imagination. Helen Keller, Homer, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles: their lack of sight did not prevent them from seeing further than most of us ever will. In fact, their blindness may have pushed them to rely more deeply on their inner vision: the third eye.

Ethiopia’s philosopher-poet Solomon Deressa once reflected on this very power of imagination:

“When you look at the Axum obelisks, you can’t help but wonder: who was the first person to stand there and imagine them? What inspired him? Once something is imagined, it ceases to be a great mystery. What truly amazes is the very first person who envisioned erecting the obelisks and what inspired him to dare such a thought.”

The wonders of civilization, the masterpieces of art, and the discoveries of science, all of them begin in the unseen realm of the imagination. That is the true power of our third eye.

But remember, imagination is not static. It is not something we use automatically without effort. Like a muscle, it grows only when we exercise it. Just as we strengthen our bodies through disciplined training, we must consciously feed and train our imagination through reading, reflection, creativity, and daring thought. When we cultivate and sharpen our mind’s eye, we gain the power to build a more prosperous and civilized world.