Bushido, the samurai code, was not developed by a single person but rather evolved over centuries through the influence of Zen and Shinto beliefs. The term "Bushido" itself was not used until the late 19th century, but the principles and values that make up Bushido have been present in Japanese culture for much longer.

The origins of Bushido can be traced back to the Heian period (794-1185), when the samurai class emerged in Japan. During this time, the samurai were primarily warriors and their main duty was to protect their lord and maintain peace and order in their communities. However, as the samurai class grew in power and influence, they also developed a strict code of conduct that governed their actions and shaped their way of life.

One of the key influences on Bushido was Zen Buddhism, which was introduced to Japan in the 12th century. Zen emphasized the importance of discipline, self-control, and living in the present moment. These teachings resonated with the samurai, who saw themselves as warriors who needed to be constantly prepared for battle and able to face death without fear. Zen also emphasized the concept of "mu-shin" or "no-mind," which encouraged the samurai to act without hesitation or attachment to personal gain.

Shinto, the indigenous religion of Japan, also played a role in the development of Bushido. Shinto beliefs revolve around the idea of living in harmony with nature and the spirits of the ancestors. This influenced the samurai's reverence for nature and their sense of duty to protect their land and people.

Over time, these influences, along with the samurai's own experiences and observations, coalesced into a set of values and principles that came to be known as Bushido. These included loyalty, duty, honor, self-discipline, and courage. The samurai were expected to adhere to these principles in all aspects of their lives, from their interactions with their lord to their conduct on the battlefield.

In the late 19th century, as Japan underwent modernization and the samurai class was disbanded, the term "Bushido" was popularized by scholars and writers who sought to preserve the traditional values and way of life of the samurai. It was also used by the government to promote nationalism and loyalty to the state.

In conclusion, Bushido was not developed by a single individual, but rather evolved over time through the influence of Zen and Shinto beliefs and the experiences of the samurai class. It remains a significant part of Japanese culture and continues to inspire people with its principles of honor, duty, and self-discipline.