Nāgārjuna was an influential Indian philosopher and the founder of the Madhyamaka school of Buddhism. He lived around the 2nd century CE and is best known for his work on the concept of emptiness (śūnyatā), which argues that all phenomena are interdependent and lack inherent existence. His writings, particularly the Mūlamadhyamakakārikā, have had a profound impact on Buddhist thought and practice. Nāgārjuna's philosophy emphasizes the middle way between extremes, advocating for a balanced understanding of reality. His ideas have influenced various Buddhist traditions, including Zen and Tibetan Buddhism, and continue to be studied and debated by scholars and practitioners today. His contributions helped shape the development of Mahayana Buddhism and its teachings on compassion and wisdom.