Bodhidharma was a semi-legendary Buddhist monk who lived during the 5th or 6th century CE. He is traditionally credited as the transmitter of Chan Buddhism to China, and is regarded as its first Chinese patriarch.

He is said to be one of the founders of Zen, and Ch’an Buddhism. He is mysterious, iconic, and powerful. Some accounts recall him as rather ill-tempered, although this was likely in classical Zenmaster style, as a skillful means. There is no debating that …

Feb 26, 2025 · Bodhidharma (flourished 6th century ce) was a Buddhist monk who, according to tradition, is credited with establishing the Zen branch of Mahayana Buddhism. The accounts of Bodhidharma’s life are largely legendary, and historical sources are practically nonexistent.

Nov 3, 2021 · Bodhidharma was born a prince in the Pallava Kingdom in South India. He was the son of the king of Kanchipuram, but at an early age, he left his kingdom and princehood and became a monk. At the age of twenty-two he was fully enlightened, and that was when he was sent as a messenger to China.

Jan 30, 2023 · Born in 470, Damo (达摩) was the third son of an Indian brahmin. His monastic name was Bodhitara, later he was named Bodhidharma. From the Buddhist patriarch Prajnyatara, received patro and robe and came to China to transmit the dharma.

May 3, 2017 · Bodhidharma (known as Damo/Pútídámó in China and Daruma /Bodaidaruma in Japan) is well known throughout East Asia and in modern times in the West as the founding master of Chan/Zen Buddhism (dhyāna in Sanskrit).

Apr 28, 2017 · Da Mo was a prince of a small tribe in southern India. It was believed he was born bout 483 A.D. At that time India was considered a spiritual center by the Chinese. Many of the Chinese emperors invited Indian priests to come to China to preach. Da Mo was one of them.

He is said to be one of the founders of Zen, and Ch’an Buddhism. He is mysterious, iconic, and powerful. Some accounts recall him as rather ill-tempered, although this was likely in classical Zenmaster style, as a skillful means. There is no debating that …

The ancient connection between Chan Buddhism and the practice of martial arts as a form of spiritual elevation and blessing can be traced directly back to the texts and traditions surrounding the figure of Bodhidharma, also called Da Mo in China (and Daruma in Japan), who according to tradition brought both to China.

It is believed that he was the son of the King of Kanicipura from a small tribe from the South of India. The place he was born in is famous for the Indian martial arts of Kalaripayattu.