The Origins of Shaolin Kung Fu | Sadhguru
Sadhguru・4 minutes read
Bodhidharma, a Pallava prince turned monk, brought Kalaripayattu to China, influencing the development of martial arts through the Shaolin school, which still upholds its core principles today. His disciple General Shen, inspired by Bodhidharma's teachings, created the one-handed Namaste gesture and furthered the practice of martial arts in China.
Insights
- Bodhidharma, a Pallava prince turned monk, journeyed to China and founded the Shaolin school, rejecting an Emperor's quest for enlightenment and later accepting General Shen as his disciple, shaping martial arts history.
- Kalaripayattu, originating as self-defense against wild animals, transformed into a holistic practice blending physical, psychological, and energetic elements, influencing the development of martial arts in China through the teachings of Bodhidharma at the Shaolin school.
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Recent questions
Who was Bodhidharma?
A monk who spread teachings and settled near a Shaolin Temple.
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Summary
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"Bodhidharma: Monk, Master, Martial Arts Innovator"
- Around 15 centuries ago, a Pallava prince became a monk at the behest of his Guru, traveling north to spread teachings. He reached China, where an Emperor awaited him, seeking enlightenment through Buddha's message, but was starkly rebuked by Bodhidharma, who then settled near a Shaolin Temple.
- Bodhidharma, known for his culinary skills, eventually accepted General Shen as his disciple after a dramatic display of devotion involving the severing of his own arm, leading to the creation of the one-handed Namaste gesture. General Shen's training in Kalaripayattu, the mother of martial arts, influenced the development of martial arts in China through the Shaolin school.
- Kalaripayattu, originating as a discipline for self-defense against wild animals, evolved into a profound practice integrating physical, psychological, and energetic aspects. The Shaolin school, founded by Bodhidharma, continues to exist, preserving the core principles of Kalaripayattu amidst various adaptations.
