Meaning: The quote "Buddhas move freely through birth and death, appearing and disappearing at will" by Bodhidharma, a Buddhist monk and the founder of the Zen school of Buddhism, encapsulates the essence of the Buddhist perspective on the nature of existence and the enlightened state of being. In this quote, Bodhidharma is expressing the idea that enlightened beings, or Buddhas, transcend the limitations of ordinary existence, including the cycles of birth and death. They are not bound by the constraints of time, space, or the physical body, and have the ability to manifest and demanifest at will.

Bodhidharma's words reflect the core teachings of Buddhism, particularly within the Mahayana and Zen traditions, which emphasize the impermanent and illusory nature of reality. The concept of birth and death, in this context, extends beyond the literal understanding of physical birth and death to encompass the continual cycle of existence, change, and transformation that characterizes all aspects of life. By suggesting that Buddhas move freely through this cycle, Bodhidharma is pointing to the idea of liberation from the suffering inherent in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth, known as samsara.

The notion of appearing and disappearing at will speaks to the transcendence of conventional limitations and the freedom of enlightened beings to manifest in various forms and contexts. This idea is consistent with the Buddhist understanding of the interconnectedness of all phenomena and the fluidity of existence. Buddhas are not confined to a fixed or permanent identity; rather, they can manifest in response to the needs and conditions of the world, offering guidance, wisdom, and compassion as necessary.

From a Zen perspective, the quote also points to the inherent emptiness and non-duality of existence. In Zen teachings, the concept of emptiness (sunyata) refers to the interdependent, impermanent, and ultimately insubstantial nature of all phenomena. Buddhas, as enlightened beings, embody this understanding by transcending the illusion of separateness and permanence. They are not bound by the limitations of individual identity or the fear of annihilation, as they recognize the interconnected and ever-changing nature of reality.

Furthermore, the idea of appearing and disappearing at will suggests a profound sense of freedom and spontaneity. Buddhas are not constrained by attachment or aversion, and they do not cling to particular forms or manifestations. Instead, they move with the flow of existence, responding to circumstances with grace and equanimity. This quality of freedom is a central aspect of the enlightened state, reflecting the release from egoic desires and the capacity to act in harmony with the natural order of things.

In conclusion, Bodhidharma's quote encapsulates the fundamental teachings of Buddhism regarding the nature of existence, the liberation from suffering, and the enlightened state of being. It conveys the idea of Buddhas moving freely through birth and death, appearing and disappearing at will, as a symbol of the transcendence of conventional limitations and the embodiment of wisdom, compassion, and freedom. This perspective invites contemplation on the nature of reality, the impermanence of all things, and the potential for awakening to a state of profound peace and liberation.