You’ve probably noticed someone with an unusual gaze where the white of their eye is visible below or above the iris. This distinctive eye appearance is known as “sanpaku,” a Japanese term meaning “three whites.” Some people may think it just looks unusual, but in some cultures, it was thought to mean more than that. A long time ago, sanpaku eyes were believed to show something about a person’s inner spiritual state.
What Are Sanpaku Eyes?
Sanpaku eyes, a term originating from Japanese facial reading, refers to a unique eye condition where the white of the eye (sclera) is visible either above or below the iris. The word “sanpaku” literally translates to “three whites,” indicating that three sides of the iris are surrounded by white instead of the typical two.
Do you know how Billie Eilish and Princess Diana had those eyes that looked quite haunting yet magical where you could see white above or below the iris? That’s what sanpaku eyes look like.
There are two main types of sanpaku eyes:
- Yin Sanpaku: When the white is visible below the iris, often associated with physical imbalances.
- Yang Sanpaku: When the white is visible above the iris, sometimes linked to mental or emotional challenges.
The Spiritual Meaning of Sanpaku Eyes
Spiritually, the sanpaku eyes may indicate an imbalance or disharmony within a person. The white space visible is thought to relate to certain parts of the body or psyche. People with lower sanpaku eyes are said to lack grounding or be unstable, while middle sanpaku eyes indicate issues with fully accepting something, moving on, or controlling your emotions. Upper sanpaku eyes are thought to mean an overactive mind that has trouble focusing. It could also relate to overthinking things or doubting yourself and your higher self.
Psychic Abilities
Those with sanpaku eyes may possess psychic abilities or a greater connection to spiritual realms. The idea comes from an ancient Japanese belief that the position of the iris relative to the eyelid can reveal spiritual qualities. When the white sclera is visible below the iris, forming a “sanpaku” (三白) pattern, it is thought to indicate an imbalance. Some see this as a sign of potential psychic sensitivity or spiritual gifts that have yet to be developed.
Those who ascribe to this belief system think sanpaku eyes show that a person has natural intuitive abilities but lacks proper grounding, focus and discipline. The extra sensory perception is there, but remains untrained. With spiritual development and growth, the eyes are said to “correct” themselves as the person learns to harness their gifts in a balanced way.
Do Sanpaku Eyes Really Reveal Your Destiny?
You may have seen photos of people with sanpaku eyes and heard claims that this eye feature can reveal important details about a person’s destiny. But how much truth is there to this idea?
Some spiritual and alternative health practitioners claim that sanpaku eyes can indicate health issues or challenges ahead in life. They believe the eyes show an imbalance within the person. However, others in the spiritual world see it differently. According to them, sanpaku eyes are more likely to mean that there is some imbalance within an individual or latent psychic abilities that have not yet been discovered or used. They think the eyes reflect a disconnect between the body and spirit that does not allow their gifts to shine through.
The concept of sanpaku eyes originated in Japan and is based on the interesting idea that the eyes reflect a person’s energy and spirit. When the white space of the eye shows, it indicates a disconnect between the body and spirit. However, this does not necessarily translate to a doomed destiny, according to spiritual practitioners. Instead, they believe it could mean the person has untapped gifts or talents and needs to find a path that allows their spirit to shine through by discovering their abilities. Following this path may help address any imbalances seen in their sanpaku eyes.
How About Death?
Some people actually believe that having sanpaku eyes is a sign that your chi or life energy is off balance in a negative way. They claim it can attract bad luck or even lead to an early demise. Sure, some read signs from a person’s appearance, but there isn’t much factual basis to the idea that sanpaku eyes spell doom. This is more rooted in old superstitions than actual evidence!
My Advice
Don’t read too much into sanpaku eyes unless you feel it’s personally meaningful spiritually. For some people, it’s just a normal physical thing with no mystical vibes. There’s no need to assume sanpaku eyes mean someone’s a witch or wizard! If you know someone with them, it doesn’t automatically say anything about them unless you feel your own spiritual connection. Otherwise, sanpaku eyes are probably no big deal and just a physical thing without deeper significance.
