Bodhidharma, also known as Daruma in Japan, was a Buddhist monk who is credited as the founder of Zen Buddhism. He is believed to have lived during the 5th or 6th century CE and is considered a legendary figure in Buddhist history. Bodhidharma's teachings differed significantly from other Buddhist schools, and his unique approach to Buddhism laid the foundation for the development of Zen Buddhism.

One of the key differences in Bodhidharma's teachings was his emphasis on direct experience and intuition over intellectual understanding. He rejected the traditional Buddhist belief in scriptures and rituals as the means to attain enlightenment. Instead, he emphasized the importance of meditation and self-awareness as the path to enlightenment. This approach was in stark contrast to other Buddhist schools, which placed a strong emphasis on following religious texts and performing rituals.

Another significant difference in Bodhidharma's teachings was his rejection of the caste system and societal hierarchies. He believed that all individuals, regardless of their social status, had the potential to attain enlightenment. This was a radical departure from other Buddhist schools, which often placed a strong emphasis on social hierarchy and the role of monks as the primary teachers of Buddhism.

Bodhidharma's teachings also differed from other Buddhist schools in his emphasis on the concept of emptiness. He taught that the true nature of reality is empty and that all phenomena are impermanent and devoid of inherent existence. This concept of emptiness was a central tenet of Zen Buddhism and became a cornerstone of its teachings.

Furthermore, Bodhidharma's teachings emphasized the importance of self-reliance and personal responsibility. He believed that individuals had the power to liberate themselves from suffering and attain enlightenment through their own efforts. This was in contrast to other Buddhist schools, which often placed a strong emphasis on relying on the guidance of a teacher or following strict rules and rituals.

Bodhidharma's teachings also differed in their focus on the present moment. He taught that enlightenment could only be attained by being fully present in the here and now and not dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. This emphasis on mindfulness and living in the present moment became a fundamental aspect of Zen Buddhism.

In conclusion, Bodhidharma's teachings differed significantly from other Buddhist schools in their emphasis on direct experience, rejection of societal hierarchies, focus on emptiness, emphasis on self-reliance, and emphasis on the present moment. His teachings laid the foundation for the development of Zen Buddhism, which continues to be a popular and influential school of Buddhism today.