“A special transmission outside the scriptures,
Not founded upon words and letters;
By pointing directly to one’s mind.It lets one see into one’s own true nature and thus attain Buddhahood.”
Bodhidharma, Founder of Cha’an (Zen) Buddhism and First Patriarch
Although little is known about the life of Bodhidharma, as the founder of Ch’an (Zen) Buddhism his influence permeates the culture of Asia and now the West. The story of his life has been preserved in legend.
Bodhidharma was invited to visit the Emperor Wu of Liang, who was a great patron of Buddhism.
The Emperor had built many monasteries, and he asked Bodhidharma what merit his generosity had earned. “No merit,” said Bodhidharma. Startled, the Emperor asked Bodhidharma the supreme truth of the Dharma. “Vast emptiness; nothing holy,” replied Bodhidharma. Finally, the Emperor asked, “Who are you?” “I know not,” said Bodhidharma.
Bodhidharma traveled north to the Shaolin Temple. For nine years he sat in meditation in a cave near the temple. According to legend, at one point he was frustrated by his own drowsiness and so ripped off his eyelids.
Hui-k’o, who would be the Second Patriarch of Ch’an, stood in the snow outside the cave. To show Bodhidharma his sincerity to learn the Dharma, Hui-k’o cut off his arm and said, “Your disciple’s mind has no peace as yet. Master, please, put it to rest.” Bodhidharma said, “Bring me your mind, and I will put it to rest.” Hui-k’o said, “I have searched for my mind, but I cannot find it.” Bodhidharma said, “I have completely put it to rest for you.”
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