Vigyan Bhairava Tantra

Sutra – 37

Darsh: Vision, Sight, Krishna, and Beyond

Among the five senses, the eyes stand as the medium through which we perceive the world. In today’s era, we have placed immense trust in our eyes, often neglecting the other senses. This reliance has led us to a point where our perception of reality is increasingly limited. What we see, we believe, and we hastily conclude based solely on appearances. However, there is more to life than what meets the eye. Decisions and understanding demand the integration of all faculties. Vision alone, though powerful, is not the ultimate truth.

It is said, “What is visible, sells.” Unfortunately, we have extended this principle to our personal lives, leading to fragile relationships, many of which teeter on the brink of collapse.

When we look at a wealthy individual, a celebrity, a political leader, or any famous personality, we instinctively think of their good fortune and accomplishments. Yet, if you were to ask them, they might reveal that their true aspirations remain unfulfilled. Success in the eyes of others often feels incomplete to the individual themselves. This is akin to the outwardly cheerful and seemingly content person who, in reality, may be battling inner turmoil. Despite this, we continue to place unwavering faith in our eyes.

Why does this happen to us? Why do we behave this way?

The answer lies in our lack of inward vision. We have rarely used our eyes to see ourselves; we have seldom turned our gaze inward.

This teaching, along with the three subsequent teachings, invites us to embark on the journey of self-exploration.

If we begin to look within, we will realize that our growth and evolution continue unceasingly from the moment of conception until after death. Death itself is merely a transition, a precursor to new life. Despite this eternal growth, most people mistakenly believe that progress ceases after a certain age or stage in life. We forget that the universe is in constant motion and evolution, and as integral parts of this cosmos, we too must embrace perpetual growth. Life’s journey is not bound by age, work, or thought.

We must acknowledge that our body is not the ultimate destination; rather, it is a pathway created by nature, a bridge upon which every human leaves their footprints. These footprints serve as lessons and guides for those who follow, enabling them to walk their own paths with clarity. Therefore, we must discard the belief that age is a barrier and resolve to move forward, regardless of circumstances.

The Practice of Inner Vision

As per this teaching, practice this method either early in the morning before sunrise or at night. Sit comfortably in Padmasana (Lotus Pose), Vajrasana (Diamond Pose), or Sukhasana (Easy Pose) with your eyes closed. Gently press your closed eyes with your fingers, applying just enough pressure to avoid any pain. After holding this pressure for a moment, release your hands.

You will observe a point of light within your closed eyes. This luminous point may appear in the region of your eye center, third eye (Tilak or Ajna Chakra), Sahasrara Chakra (Crown Chakra), or, for some, even at the Anahata Chakra (Heart Chakra).

Focus your attention on this point of light without straining or staring intensely. Let your breathing remain natural and steady. As your attention becomes centered on this point, your thoughts will gradually fade away.

With consistent practice of this method, the point of light will begin to expand, eventually enveloping your entire body. This light will guide you into the profound depths of meditation.

The Transformation

This practice turns your perspective inward, shifting your vision and understanding of both yourself and the world. Over time, your outlook will transform naturally and effortlessly. This is the essence of this teaching and the beauty of tantra—it does not demand forced change but facilitates spontaneous transformation as you embrace its practices.