Ramana Maharshi Tells Difference Between Dhyana With Closed And Open Eyes

Once Annamalai Swami asked Bhagavan:

"What is the difference between dhyana with closed eyes and dhyana with open eyes?"

Bhagavan Ramana replied:

"If you throw a ball, by standing away from a wall, the ball will come to you.If you throw the ball, by standing close to the wall,it will go far away.In the same way,if you close the eyes and do dhyana, the mind will run away with thoughts in all directions.

If you keep the eyes open and do dhyana, the mind will not go away to a far off place.

Dhayna with closed eyes is only for those who are not mature."

Bhagavan also quoted from Tayumanavar, a 18th century poet:

"If I want to close my eyes, O this wretched karmas are fighting with me!"

Source: Sri Ramana Ninvaivugal: Tamil. Annamalai Swami

There was one more incident where ramana maharshi discusses about this topic.

6th July, 1935

Talk 61.

Mr. Ekanatha Rao: How is dhyana practised - with eyes open or closed?

M.: It may be done either way. The point is that the mind must be introverted and kept active in its pursuit. Sometimes it happens that when the eyes are closed the latent thoughts rush forth with great vigour.

It may also be difficult to introvert(Turn inside) the mind with the eyes open. It requires strength of mind to do so.The mind is contaminated when it takes in objects.

Otherwise, it is pure. The main factor in dhyana is to keep the mind active in its own pursuit without taking in external impressions or thinking of other matters.

Source: Talks With Ramana Maharshi