Bodhidharma was a Buddhist monk who is traditionally credited as the founder of Zen Buddhism in China. He is believed to have lived during the 6th century and is often depicted as a figure who emphasized meditation and direct experience of enlightenment. His teachings focused on the importance of inner realization rather than reliance on scriptures. According to legend, Bodhidharma traveled from India to China and spent nine years meditating in a cave. He is also associated with the Shaolin Temple, where he is said to have introduced martial arts as a means of physical and mental discipline for monks. His influence continues to be felt in various forms of Buddhism today.