The Evil Eye and the Enigma of Sanpaku Eyes

Based on podcast episode 239 The Eyes Have It: Uncovering the Link Between Sanpaku Eyes, the Evil Eye, and Spiritual Darkness

The concept of Sanpaku eyes—an unusual appearance of the sclera (the white part of the eye) either above or below the iris—originates in Japanese face reading, where it's believed to reveal a person’s instability, aggression, or hidden darkness. While not a biblical concept, it raises a valid question: is there any scriptural relevance to the way eyes appear as an indicator of one’s spiritual or moral state?

From a physiological standpoint, Sanpaku eyes may result from stress, fatigue, or a medical condition. But some claim they hint at something deeper—perhaps even malevolent. History and media have highlighted images of both infamous and notable individuals bearing this eye trait. Serial killers, celebrities, and politicians have all been cited as examples. Is this mere coincidence? Or does Scripture offer clues into whether the eyes can truly betray one’s inner condition?

The Eye as a Spiritual Window

Jesus directly addressed the role of the eye in spiritual discernment:

"The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness." —Matthew 6:22–23

Here, the eye symbolizes perception—spiritual orientation. A "single" eye implies a focused devotion to God, whereas an "evil" eye reflects moral corruption and spiritual decay. Luke echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the body being full of either light or darkness depending on the eye’s condition (Luke 11:34–36).

This isn't about eye shape or scleral exposure. It's about spiritual alignment. However, can outward signs ever mirror inner turmoil?

Greed, Covetousness, and the Evil Eye

The phrase "evil eye" appears throughout Scripture, often tied to greed and selfishness:

• "He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him." —Proverbs 28:22

• "Is thine eye evil, because I am good?" —Matthew 20:15

  
  

These verses show that an evil eye reflects a heart turned away from God—one ruled by envy, pride, and worldly ambition.

It’s not unreasonable to consider that repeated indulgence in wickedness might influence even one’s physical countenance. While we cannot claim with certainty that Sanpaku eyes indicate demonic possession or psychopathy, Scripture does suggest that inward corruption can manifest outwardly.

Warnings from Within and Without

Scott draws a compelling comparison between Sanpaku eyes and natural warning signs. In nature, dangerous creatures often bear vivid, unsettling features. Likewise, could these intense eyes signal spiritual instability or demonic influence? Scripture warns us not to judge by appearance alone (John 7:24), yet also calls for discernment.

Mark 7:20–23 reminds us that evil proceeds from within the heart:

"...evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders... an evil eye …pride, foolishness."

These traits are not always immediately visible—but sometimes, there is something in a person’s eyes that reflects it. In Mark 9:47–48, Christ advises radical removal of causes for offense—showing how seriously God regards what we allow to enter through our eyes and influence our hearts.

A Pattern or a Coincidence?

Many photos circulating online show famous individuals with pronounced Sanpaku eyes—some of whom exhibit troubling behavior or openly embrace rebellion. One chilling example mentioned was Jake Barber, who claimed to feel “possessed” while transporting a mysterious craft. Whether or not that had anything to do with his physical appearance, it points to a deeper spiritual vulnerability.

Covetousness, greed, and the hunger for influence have marked humanity’s downfall since Eden. That pattern continues today in politics, entertainment, and media. Scripture calls these traits signs of the last days (2 Timothy 3:1–5).

We may not have definitive proof linking Sanpaku eyes to demonic activity, but we do know that Jesus spoke clearly of the evil eye—and its ties to a darkened heart.

Discernment for the Believer

The believer is called not to be paranoid, but wise. It’s not our task to judge who is possessed or who is not based on how their eyes appear. But we are exhorted to be sober and vigilant (1 Peter 5:8). Sometimes the most effective warnings come in subtle forms—expressions, demeanor, the glint in the eye.

"He that hath an evil eye hasteth after riches, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him." —Proverbs 28:22

If the eye truly reflects the state of the soul, then maybe it’s worth paying closer attention—not in superstition, but in spiritual awareness.

Final Thoughts

There is no definitive biblical proof connecting Sanpaku eyes to demonic possession or psychopathy. But the idea of the eyes reflecting one’s moral or spiritual state is deeply supported in Scripture. The evil eye—whether symbolic or manifest—represents a soul turned from God toward greed, pride, and destruction.

The key takeaway is this: appearances alone are not enough to discern a person’s character, but they might serve as a clue. The believer must test all things against Scripture, seek wisdom, and walk in discernment—guarding not only what we see, but also how we perceive those around us.

If you’d like to explore these concepts further, the full lesson is available in the Bible Mysteries Podcast episode discussing Sanpaku eyes. Join the investigation into the unseen truths the world doesn’t want you to know.

“Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness.” —Luke 11:35