According to legend, Bodhidarma lived in India in the sixth century. He went to China in order to teach the Indian techniques of meditation. It is said that he once sat meditating for such a long time that he lost the power of his hands and legs. He is usually portrayed meditating. The Lohan (Arhat in Sanskrit) are disciples of the Buddha who, in their earthly lives, have attained the state of enlightenment during their earthly existence. With their supernatural powers they help human beings to attain enlightenment, and protect them against evil.