BODHIDHARMA Meaning and
Definition
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Bodhidharma, also known as Damo or Ta Mo, is a legendary and revered figure in Buddhist history. Born as a prince in southern India, Bodhidharma is believed to have lived during the 5th or 6th century CE, although the exact dates of his existence are unclear. He is renowned as the founder of the Zen school of Buddhism and is considered the first patriarch of Chan Buddhism, its Chinese counterpart.
According to popular accounts, Bodhidharma traveled from India to China, where he arrived at the Shaolin Monastery in Henan province. It is during his time at the Shaolin temple that he is said to have developed the famous Shaolin martial arts, rooted in Chan Buddhism. Bodhidharma is often depicted as a bearded, wide-eyed monk who meditates in a cave for nine years, facing a wall, emphasizing his dedication to meditation and introspection.
Today, Bodhidharma is venerated as a significant figure in Buddhist and martial arts history. He is seen as a source of inspiration for those seeking enlightenment and spiritual awakening. His teachings emphasize the direct experience of one's true nature and the importance of meditation in attaining enlightenment. Bodhidharma's influence can be seen in various Buddhist traditions, especially Zen, which has spread throughout East Asia and beyond.
Despite the limited historical evidence and the blend of fact and legend, Bodhidharma's impact on Buddhist philosophy, meditation practices, and martial arts is widely recognized. His legacy continues to be celebrated by practitioners of Buddhism and martial arts, who honor his teachings and example of spiritual discipline and self-realization.
Common Misspellings for BODHIDHARMA
- vodhidharma
- nodhidharma
- hodhidharma
- godhidharma
- bidhidharma
- bkdhidharma
- bldhidharma
- bpdhidharma
- b0dhidharma
- b9dhidharma
- boshidharma
- boxhidharma
- bochidharma
- bofhidharma
- borhidharma
- boehidharma
- bodgidharma
- bodbidharma
- bodnidharma
- bodjidharma
- bodhidhrma
- Bodindharma
Etymology of BODHIDHARMA
The word "Bodhidharma" has its origins in Sanskrit, an ancient Indo-Aryan language used in classical Indian literature and religious texts. The term consists of two parts: "Bodhi" and "Dharma".
1. Bodhi: The term "Bodhi" is derived from the Sanskrit word "bodhi", which means "awakening" or "enlightenment". In the context of Buddhism, it refers to the ultimate state of enlightenment or spiritual awakening achieved by the Buddha and subsequent practitioners.
2. Dharma: The term "Dharma" has multiple meanings and interpretations in different contexts. In the case of Bodhidharma, it refers to the teachings or the way of life prescribed by Buddhism. It encompasses the moral and ethical principles, as well as the path to enlightenment.
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