RAINBOW BODY Meaning and
Definition
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Rainbow body refers to a spiritual concept found in certain religious traditions, particularly in Tibetan Buddhism. It is believed to be a rare and advanced attainment achieved by highly realized beings, characterized by the transformation of their physical body into pure light or energy at the time of death. The term "rainbow" signifies the display of brilliant and vibrant colors that surrounds the enlightened individual during this process.
According to Tibetan Buddhist teachings, achieving the rainbow body represents the pinnacle of spiritual development and enlightenment. It is considered a manifestation of complete liberation from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, and a sign of mastery over the subtle energies of the human body. The rainbow body is seen as a testament to the practitioner's profound realization of the true nature of reality and their unity with the universe.
Accounts of individuals attaining the rainbow body describe the dissolution of the physical body into radiant light, leaving behind only hair, nails, and the clothes worn at the time. The light is said to radiate with various colors, such as the hues of a rainbow or a peacock's feather, thus the name "rainbow body".
The rainbow body phenomenon is considered extremely rare and requires intensive spiritual practice, including profound meditation and the cultivation of compassion and wisdom. It is seen as the ultimate goal for many dedicated practitioners, symbolizing their union with the divine and the ultimate liberation from suffering.
Etymology of RAINBOW BODY
The word "rainbow body" has its origins in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. It is derived from the Tibetan term "ja lus" (རྗེ་སླུང་), which translates as "rainbow body" or "body of light".
In Tibetan Buddhism, the concept of the rainbow body refers to a spiritual attainment of highly realized practitioners known as "dzogchenpas" or "great perfection practitioners". It is believed that through intense meditation practices and specific tantric methods, these advanced practitioners can dissolve their physical bodies into pure light at the moment of their death. As a result, their remains supposedly manifest as rainbow-like hues, symbolizing their spiritual realization and liberation.
The term "rainbow body" serves as a symbolic representation of the extraordinary spiritual achievement and the transcendence of ordinary physical existence.
