________________
Q. What is the function of Chakshus Kendra, the - Centre of Vision? Does it clarify our vision or affect the waves of passion within? While meditating on this centre, should the eyes be kept open or closed?
Ans. The eye sees everything but we never centre our
attention on the eye. To see and recognise it we need an inner eye which can be opened through meditation. The eye is intimately connected with the brain. It is an important medium for the diffusion of vital electricity. When we close the eye and meditate upon it, we save a considerable amount of electricity which could be utilized for developing our will-power or concentration.
Chakshus Kendra, the Centre of Vision, may also be called the window of the brain. Its function is to refine the emotions and develop mental peace. As long as the psychic centre itself remains defiled, it cannot influence the current of emotion. From this point of view, meditation on Chakshus Kendra (the Centre of Vision) is bound to purify one's vision. If one's vision is pure, one's approach would also be clear. The man endowed with a clear approach is neither suspicious of another, nor does he conduct himself in a way as to invite suspicion upon himself. With the maturing of meditation on Chakshus Kendra, the cerebral cortex also becomes activated, because this centre is also connected with the Centre of Knowledge.
Whether the eyes are kept open or closed or half open or unwinking would depend upon the temperament of the meditator. The position in which there is the least intrusion of thought during meditation and which is conducive to the increase of concentration, will prove useful. However, half open eyes are generally deemed best for meditation. When one wishes to close the eyes, one should do so very softly.
173
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org