This is a translation of an important classic on Zen swordfighting. Yagyu Munenori was so widely renowned that he was appointed official sword instructor to two Tokugawa shoguns. (The position was always coveted by Miyamoto Musashi, but he never succeeded in gaining the post). Yagyu's style is known as the Shinkage-ryu style, for centuries the official style of the Tokugawa dynasty. His spiritual mentor was Zen priest Takuan. Here, Yagyu's Buddhist spirituality is clearly reflected in his central idea of the "life-giving sword" - the notion of controlling an opponent by the spiritual readiness to fight, rather than during the fight. His mastery of restraint and diplomacy made him a trusted political and military advisor to the shoguns. This book is a look into a master swordsman's thoughts on nonattachment and even non-violence.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.0 / 5.0
interested in Zen and Kendo/Samurai/etc, worth the read:
A good book on the way of the sword/warrior and the combination of Zen thought within this art. I look forward to reading the translator's (William Scott Wilson) bio of Miyamoto Musashi- The Lone Samurai: The Life of Miyamoto Musashi.
Mainly for practitioners of "Internal" martial arts.:
If you're looking for practical teachings, read the Book of Five Rings and the Art of War.
A Japanese Swordsmanship classic on the philosophical principles of the warrior.:
Even though I liked Musashi's Book of Five Rings better, this informative text explains the philosopical principles of Zen as it relates to swordsmanship. The advice and lessons in this text are of value for anyone who follows the way of the warrior. The two texts every serious martial artist should have in his/her library is this one and Musashi's book of five rings. Reading this book first will make it easier to understand other treatises having to do with Budo(way of the warrior).
In conclusion,... more info
Masterpiece Treaty on the Way of the Sword:
First and foremost this is not a story for entertainment nor is it a manual that will teach you how to use a sword. This is a deeply philosophical investigation into the Zen mind required to master the sword. Experienced practitioners will get the most out of it. Beginners will stumble through it and most of the value will be lost. It requires many reads and deep contemplation together with practice to really come to life. The first 60-pages of the book are very interesting, as Wilson takes us through... more info
