Bodhidharma (c. 5th–6th century) was an Indian monk and the legendary founder of Chan (Zen) Buddhism in China. His teachings, emphasizing Meditation and direct insight over textual study, profoundly influenced East Asian Buddhism. Renowned for his nine years of wall-gazing at the Shaolin Monastery, Bodhidharma's legacy includes contributions to Martial arts and Chan Practice. His Life and teachings continue to inspire practitioners and scholars of Buddhism worldwide.
Anecdotes
- Credited with founding the Zen school of Buddhism after meditating in front of a wall for nine years without speaking.
- Rumored to have crossed the Yangtze River on a single reed, demonstrating miraculous Abilities.
- Spent nine years meditating in a cave, reportedly staring at a wall the entire Time, embodying intense dedication to his spiritual practice.
Magnitudes
- Embrace stillness to master your inner Self.
- Embrace solitude to cultivate inner Wisdom.
- See beyond appearances; seek the true essence.
Explore these important ideas through classics in our archives contributed by or related to Bodhidharma.
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