Symbolism: Eye of Ra

The Eye of Ra is a powerful ancient Egyptian symbol representing the sun’s life-giving and destructive power. It embodies divine authority, protection, and cosmic order, often personified as a fierce goddess who acts on behalf of the Sun God Ra.

Unlike passive symbols of watchfulness, the Eye of Ra is active, a sentient force capable of creation and vengeance. It speaks to humanity’s enduring relationship with light, power, and the feminine face of divine will.

Origins and Historical Context

The Eye of Ra first appears in ancient Egyptian religious texts from the Old Kingdom period (c. 2686–2025 BCE). Ra, the sun god and creator deity, sent his eye out into the world to subdue chaos and restore order—especially when his authority was questioned.

In myth, the Eye was not merely a symbol but a goddess in her own right, often associated with Sekhmet, Hathor, Bastet, or Wadjet, depending on her mood or mission. As the Eye, she was sent to punish humanity for rebellion, burning with solar wrath, but later soothed into compassion and restoration.

The Eye of Ra was invoked in temple rituals, used in royal iconography, and worn as an amulet for protection and authority.

Visual Description

• Depicted as the right eye (to distinguish it from the lunar, left Eye of Horus)

• May be shown with a cobra (uraeus) curling from the brow—a symbol of sovereignty and divine fire

• Sometimes paired with a solar disc, representing its connection to the sun

• Stylized with distinctive lines representing eye markings of the falcon (Horus), although the Eye of Ra is its own distinct force

Core Meanings and Interpretations

Solar Force: Represents the blazing heat and light of the sun, both nourishing and dangerous

Divine Protection: The Eye acts as a guardian against chaos (Isfet), ensuring the maintenance of Ma’at (cosmic order)

Feminine Power: Personified as a goddess, the Eye affirms the divine feminine not only as nurturing, but also ferocious and sovereign

Retribution and Healing: Her wrath punishes the wicked, but also purifies the world

In Jungian terms, the Eye of Ra might represent the conscious ego or solar Self, especially the aspect of consciousness that shines into darkness with intention and precision.

Related Symbols and Contrasts

Eye of Horus: Often confused with the Eye of Ra, but distinct; the Eye of Horus (left eye) is lunar, healing, and associated with restoration after injury.

Uraeus (Cobra): Symbol of divine authority, often wrapped into depictions of the Eye.

Sun Disc: A purer symbol of solar divinity, often merged with the Eye in temple art.

Modern Use and Relevance

Today, the Eye of Ra is used in:

• Spiritual jewelry and talismans, symbolizing protection, empowerment, and clarity

• Art and tattoos, reflecting the rise of solar consciousness, feminine power, and mysticism

• Esoteric and occult traditions, where it represents awareness, force of will, and sacred vigilance

Its meaning has broadened to include “seeing through illusions”, especially in the age of awakening consciousness. It’s often worn by those seeking to embody personal sovereignty and spiritual strength.

The Eye of Ra in Bhav Jewelry

At Bhav, we honor the Eye of Ra for its fearless embodiment of divine action.
Our jewelry channels this ancient symbol using fine silver and solar stones like Citrine or Tiger’s Eye, echoing its fire and grounding force.

• Eye of Ra Sterling Silver Ring

• Eye of Horus/Ra Sterling Silver Charm

• Eye of Ra Disc Sterling Silver Pendant

• Eye of Ra Disc Dangle Sterling Silver Earrings

The Eye of Ra symbol is for those walking boldly in their light—who protect what matters, burn away falsehood, and restore harmony within and around them.

References & Further Exploration

• Wilkinson, Richard H. The Complete Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt

• Pinch, Geraldine. Egyptian Myth: A Very Short Introduction