Dogen was a 13th-century Japanese Zen master and the founder of the Sōtō school of Zen Buddhism. He is best known for his teachings on meditation, particularly the practice of zazen, which involves sitting in stillness and focusing on the present moment. Dogen emphasized the importance of direct experience and the interconnectedness of all things, encouraging his students to engage deeply with their practice. His most famous work, the Shōbōgenzō, is a collection of writings that explore the nature of reality and the essence of Zen. Dogen's teachings continue to influence Zen practitioners today, inspiring them to seek enlightenment through mindfulness and self-awareness.