Bodhidharma

About the Author

Bodhidharma, the legendary founder of Zen Buddhism, was a fifth-century Indian monk who journeyed to China, bringing with him the profound teachings of dhyana meditation and direct insight into the nature of mind. Revered as the first patriarch of Chan (Zen) in the East, he emphasized wall-gazing contemplation and the rejection of scriptural dogma in favor of personal enlightenment. His sparse yet incisive writings, transmitted orally and later recorded, challenge practitioners to transcend dualistic thinking and realize their inherent Buddha-nature. Through his austere discipline and enigmatic dialogues, Bodhidharma's legacy endures as a cornerstone of Zen philosophy, inspiring generations to seek awakening beyond words and forms.