Meaning: The quote "And the Buddha is the person who's free: free of plans, free of cares" attributed to Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk who lived during the 5th or 6th century CE, encapsulates the essence of Buddhist philosophy and the state of enlightenment. Bodhidharma is traditionally credited as the transmitter of Zen (Ch'an) to China, and his teachings had a profound impact on the development of Zen Buddhism.

The quote reflects the fundamental concept of freedom from attachment and desire, which lies at the heart of Buddhist teachings. In Buddhism, the state of enlightenment, or Nirvana, is often described as a state of ultimate freedom from suffering, attachment, and ignorance. The Buddha, as the enlightened one, is the embodiment of this freedom.

When Bodhidharma speaks of being "free of plans, free of cares," he is pointing to the idea that true freedom comes from letting go of the constant striving, planning, and worrying that characterizes much of human existence. In the Buddhist context, this freedom is achieved through the practice of mindfulness, meditation, and the cultivation of wisdom and compassion.

The concept of being "free of plans" speaks to the Buddhist understanding of the illusory nature of the future. In Buddhism, there is an emphasis on being fully present in the current moment, as it is the only reality we truly experience. Attachment to plans and expectations about the future can lead to suffering when things do not unfold as anticipated. By letting go of these plans and expectations, one can find freedom and peace in the present moment.

Similarly, being "free of cares" points to the idea of releasing attachment to the things that cause suffering. In Buddhism, the root of suffering is often identified as attachment and craving. By cultivating a mindset of non-attachment and letting go of cares and worries, one can transcend the suffering that arises from clinging to transient things.

Bodhidharma's quote also underscores the central role of inner freedom in the Buddhist path. The freedom he speaks of is not merely external but is primarily concerned with the liberation of the mind and the heart from the bonds of delusion and ego. This inner freedom is cultivated through practices such as meditation, self-reflection, and ethical living.

In the context of Bodhidharma's teachings, this quote serves as a reminder of the goal of spiritual practice: to attain a state of freedom and liberation from the constraints of the ego and the suffering it engenders. It encourages practitioners to let go of the mental constructs and emotional burdens that hinder the realization of true freedom.

Overall, Bodhidharma's quote encapsulates the core teachings of Buddhism regarding freedom, non-attachment, and the pursuit of enlightenment. It offers a profound insight into the nature of true freedom and serves as an inspiration for those on the path of spiritual awakening and self-discovery.

In conclusion, Bodhidharma's quote "And the Buddha is the person who's free: free of plans, free of cares" encapsulates the essence of Buddhist teachings on liberation and freedom from suffering. It speaks to the profound wisdom of letting go of attachments, expectations, and worries, and finding true freedom in the present moment. This quote continues to inspire and guide practitioners on the path to inner freedom and enlightenment.