Bodhidharma, also known as Daruma, is one of the founders of Chan Buddhism (Zen). He is believed to be from South India and is venerated as the 'First Patriarch of Chan in the East'. His life story is largely mythologized, and his exact birth and death dates are unknown.
Tenzin Palmo, born in 1943, is a renowned Tibetan Buddhist nun and author. She is known for her cave retreat in the Himalayas of India, becoming the first female to receive formal recognition as a cave dweller. Palmo's works primarily focus on the role of women in Buddhism and her personal retreat experiences.
Rajneesh, originally named Chandra Mohan Jain, was an Indian spiritual teacher and writer. Born on December 11, 1931, and passed away on January 19, 1990, he is known for his unique teachings and lifestyle that attracted followers from around the world.
Mooji is a renowned spiritual teacher and guide, born on January 29, 1954. His teaching style is unique, blending Eastern philosophies such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Sufism with Western psychology and modern spiritual therapies. His teachings and works have gained widespread popularity globally, influencing countless individuals seeking spiritual growth.
Tilopa, born in 988 and died in 1069, was a mysterious figure in Buddhism. His identity and life story are not well-documented, and his contributions and influence are mainly based on later research and interpretations.
Arlene Raven was a prominent historian specializing in the history of the United States. Born on July 12, 1944, she made significant contributions to the field of history, particularly in the area of American political and social history. Raven passed away on August 1, 2006, leaving behind a legacy of scholarly work that continues to influence historians and students of American history.
Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj was an Indian philosopher known for his profound insights into existence and self-awareness. His philosophy emphasizes the importance of direct experience and inner perception, profoundly influencing many seekers of spiritual awakening.
Ian McCartney is a British politician who has been active in politics since the 1980s. He has held various positions within the Labour Party and has been involved in several notable political events.
Jon Kabat-Zinn is an American professor known for his contributions to mindfulness meditation and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Born on June 5, 1944, he is a professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and the founder and director of the Center for Mindfulness.
Huineng (638-713), also known as the Sixth Ancestor of Chan Buddhism in the Tang Dynasty, was a native of Xinhui, Guangdong. He was a highly influential figure in the history of Chan Buddhism and was revered as the Sixth Ancestor. His life was full of legends, and it is said that he received the robe and bowl from the Fifth Ancestor Hongren under his guidance, becoming the successor of Chan Buddhism. Huineng advocated 'not establishing texts, transmitting outside the teachings', emphasizing 'enlightenment through seeing one's nature'. This thought had a profound impact on the development of Chan Buddhism in later generations.