Mind's eye

The mind's eye (or third eye) is a phrase used to refer to one's ability to "see" things (such as visions) with the mind. This is, essentially, a reference to imagination and memory, although it can have religious or occult connotations.

The term "third eye" is not used for visualization and memory, only for visions. People with well-developed third eyes are sometimes known as "seers". This concept is often associated with clairvoyance, precognition, and out-of-body experiences.

In Buddhism, the third eye is a symbol of enlightenment. This is commonly denoted in Buddhist iconography with a dot on the forehead of enlightened beings, such as the Buddha and the bodhisattvas.

See also:

• chakra
• unconscious mind