In Tibetan Buddhism, the Rainbow Body ('ja' lus) is a profound spiritual attainment where a practitioner’s physical body dissolves into light, often leaving behind only hair and nails. This phenomenon occurs through advanced Dzogchen practices, specifically Trekchö and Tögal, which transform the five gross elements of the body into five-colored light. Physical Process: The body shrinks and emits radiant light, eventually vanishing or leaving only small remnants. Reason for Remnants: Hair and nails are said to remain because they are considered "dead material" without consciousness, unlike the rest of the corporeal form. Variations: In the highest attainment, the Rainbow Body of Great Transference, the body dissolves completely without leaving any physical trace, as exemplified by Guru Padmasambhava. Documentation: Historical records from monasteries like Kathok and Dzogchen, as well as modern accounts (e.g., Sonam Namgyal in 1952), document witnesses observing this dissolution and the subsequent presence of hair and nails.

It is said that Avalokiteshvara was once asked by a disciple, “What practice is the most essential to accomplish buddhahood?” Avalokiteshvara answered that the most important thing, the most essential thing to do to attain buddhahood, is to practice compassion. This is because when you practice compassion, all other qualities, such as loving kindness and the enlightenment mind, are naturally accomplished and naturally gather