The Celestial Eye and the Right Path of Practice - Part 1

[진영]

In Korean 국문 번역
https://m.cafe.daum.net/enlightenment-k/dcM5/366?svc=cafeapp

천목과 수행의 바른 길 - 1편

This writing offers a clear explanation of the concept of the Celestial Eye (천목,Third eye, Inner eye) and the path of spiritual practice, aiming to share personal insights and experiences in pursuit of true understanding. The content is based on the author’s experiences studying and practicing alongside several people with the Celestial Eye over the past decade.

Since these insights are drawn from the author's personal thoughts and experiences, the interpretation and judgment of the content are left to each reader. If this writing serves as a meaningful guide for readers to gain their own understanding, that will fulfill its purpose.

Though unsure of how much more content may be added over time, this writing begins as Part 1.

The concept of the Celestial Eye was also explained in the five-part series books "The Right Path of Practice" published years ago, but here, the aim is to provide further insights.

■ The Celestial Eye and the Right Path of Practice - Part 1

1. The Limitations of “Seeing”

“Seeing” through the Celestial Eye is akin to piercing a single needle into an apple or likened to a single grain of sand in the vast desert. This illustrates the extreme limitations inherent in what can be seen and serves as a reminder to be vigilant of those limitations.


2. The Purpose of the Celestial Eye

The essential purpose of the Celestial Eye is to serve as a guide, helping to awaken others. It is not intended for personal desire or to display one’s own ego. Here, "desire" refers to the urge to control others, the pursuit of personal values that clash with reality, or self-centered relationships that disregard reason.


3. Transcending Religious Boundaries

To reach true enlightenment, it is essential to move beyond individual religious frameworks. If the universe were to be viewed as a single circle, within it would exist Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, and more. This implies that all religions share a fundamental principle that connects them. However, if one is confined to a narrow individual consciousness, they will be unable to perceive this greater unity.


4. Understanding Insight Gained Through the Celestial Eye

The images perceived through the Celestial Eye are not actively “seen” by the practitioner but are rather “shown” to them. Recognizing this distinction is essential for proper practice. If true “seeing” were possible, one would be able to see anything at will, but instead, perception remains extremely limited and subject to the boundaries of each individual’s awareness.

For example, foreseeing outcomes like stock market trends, lottery results, or competitive bids is impossible, as they lie beyond the limits of human consciousness.


5. Common Traits Among Those with the Celestial Eye

○ They judge others within the confines of their own consciousness.
○ They assert the truth of their own perceptions and feelings.
○ They encourage others to come to them for learning and guidance.
○ They believe their level of awareness is absolute and represents the whole truth.
○ They consider themselves spiritually advanced and distinct from ordinary individuals.
○ They do not recognize the possibility that their consciousness could be influenced by others and assume themselves to be above all.


6. The Right Path of Practice

The path of spiritual practice is solely about advancing towards a singular faith. Believing without seeing is considered “great faith”, and this leads one toward the right path in everyday practice.

This path is continuously formed and refined through each moment’s words, thoughts, and actions. Attaining insight through the Celestial Eye or meditation can be a blessing and offers comfort. However, while these insights may provide some consolation, they can not serve as the best approach to everyday life.

Ultimately, true practice lies in realizing that everything depends on one’s own state of mind.



> Explanation of Key Concepts:

Ilcheyusimjo (일체유심조): "All things are created by the mind." This principle emphasizes the power of the mind in shaping one's reality.

Kyeonseongseongbul (견성성불): "Seeing one’s true nature is achieving Buddhahood." This teaching signifies that enlightenment and self-realization come through the experience of recognizing one’s true self.


November 10, 2024
Haedong Kumdo
Jinyoung Ssangkum Ryu
Kim Jeong Seong