Zhiyi was a prominent Chinese Buddhist monk and philosopher who lived during the Tang Dynasty. He is best known for founding the Tiantai school of Buddhism, which emphasizes the importance of the Lotus Sutra. Zhiyi's teachings focused on the idea of "one vehicle," suggesting that all paths in Buddhism ultimately lead to enlightenment. His approach combined meditation, scripture study, and ethical living, making Buddhism accessible to many. Zhiyi also developed a systematic method for understanding Buddhist texts, which helped clarify complex ideas. His influence continues to be felt in modern Buddhist practices, particularly in East Asia.