Bodhidharma Quotes
A collection of quotes by Bodhidharma.
Bodhidharma, also known as Da Mo, was a Buddhist monk who lived during the 5th or 6th century CE. Born in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India, his exact birthdate and ancestry remain uncertain. Despite the limited historical documentation about his life, Bodhidharma is considered a significant figure in the development of Chan Buddhism, which later became Zen Buddhism in Japan.
According to some accounts, Bodhidharma traveled to China during the reign of Emperor Wu of the Liang Dynasty. He is renowned for bringing the teachings of Dhyana (meditation) to China, emphasizing direct experience and personal enlightenment. The legend of his nine-year meditation facing a cave wall in the Shaolin Temple exemplifies his commitment to the practice.
Bodhidharma's teachings heavily influenced not only the religious traditions of China but also martial arts. He is credited with introducing various physical and spiritual disciplines to the Shaolin monks, laying the foundation for the development of Shaolin Kung Fu.
While the details of his life may be obscured by time, Bodhidharma's impact on Buddhism and his role in the transmission of teachings from India to China remain vital and enduring. His emphasis on meditation and direct experience continues to resonate with Buddhist practitioners worldwide.
