Encyclopedia, Difference between revisions of "Miyamoto Musashi" - New World

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Today, Musashi Miyamoto resides in a humble grave alongside a busy road in Kyushu which is surrounded by rice fields, and faces a [[dojo]] which is seen as fitting for Musashi, who was thought to have finally found peace in [[Kyushu]] after his many years of battle and strife.
 
Today, Musashi Miyamoto resides in a humble grave alongside a busy road in Kyushu which is surrounded by rice fields, and faces a [[dojo]] which is seen as fitting for Musashi, who was thought to have finally found peace in [[Kyushu]] after his many years of battle and strife.
  
== Philosophy ==
+
== Philosophy and Background ==
Throughout Musashi's last book, ''Go Rin No Sho'' (五輪の書, ''[[The Book of Five Rings]]''), Musashi seems to take a very philosophical approach to looking at the "Craft of War"; "''There are four Ways in which men pass through life: as [[gentleman|Gentlemen Warriors]], [[Agriculture|Farmers]], [[Artisan|Artisans]] and [[Merchant|Merchants]].''"
+
Musashi’s way of life and his philosophy are relevant even in today’s world, and his book is popular with businessmen in Japan and has been translated into several languages.  In a  modern and democratic world, Musashi’s manual on military strategy and swordsmanship is a best seller.
these falling into one of the few profession groups that could be observed in Musashi's Time.
 
  
Throughout the book, Musashi employs that the way of the Warror, as well as the meaning of a "True strategist" is that of somebody who has made mastery of many art forms away from that of the sword, such as [[tea]] drinking, painting, and [[labour]]ing and [[Literature|Writing]], as Musashi practiced throughout his life.
+
Musashi lived just at the end of the Age of Civil Wars and the beginning of the Edo age, when the Tokugawa ruled all of Japan, peacefully and with cunning, .for 300 years. When Tokugawa’s last enemy, the Toyotomi clan, was eliminated by Tokugawa Ieyasu at the siege of Osaka, a new era named “Genna” was ushered in, fueled by the desire of the rulers and most of the people to build a peaceful country.  It meant the abandonment of arms and warfare. In the midst of this time of peace Musashi spoke of battle strategy and military philosophy. As knowledge of  tactics and  strategy became less useful in actual life, it became more and  more valuable to the samurai.  The samurai (warriors) began to form a stable government and occupy the top class of a hierarchy which ordered  from top to bottom into four divisions: samurai, farmers, artisans and tradesmen.  The samurai class needed military tradition to ensure their survival and show their identity. Miyamoto Musashi and his books were hailed among the feudal lords.  The need to live in readiness to for battle had passed, and the samurai and feudal lords felt nostalgic for the barbarous force of the past.  Miyamoto Musashi was the symbol of  the old samurai spirit.  Ironically the real Musashi was anti-establishment and anti-shogunate his entire life. Musashi’s life was glorified and romanticized and featured as the subject of numerous theatrical dramas and novels .
  
He makes particular note of Artisans, and [[construction foreman|Foremen]]. In the time in which he writes the book, the majority of houses in Japan were made of wood. In the use of building a house, foremen have to employ strategy based upon the skill and ability of their workers, and surprisingly, could be seen as that of a model socialist - Imposing that any foreman, or commander should know his men, and can not assume to make unfair demands of them.
+
== The Book of Five Rings ==
 +
In his last book, Go Rin No Sho (五輪の書, The Book of Five Rings), whose subject was  “pragmatism at the risk of life,” Musashi said that he fought 60 duels undefeated. He was a religious man, but he insisted that he respected the gods and Buddha without relying upon them. In the introduction of the Book of Five Rings, Mushashi suggested that he  was never defeated because of his natural ability, or because of the order of heaven, or because the strategy of other schools was inferior.  The order of heaven was the principle behind the strategy, and he followed it. Musashi also insisted that he never quoted the law of Buddha or the teaching of Confucius, or any old war chronicles or books on martial tactics. He spoke only of what he himself had learned from his experiences on the battlefield and in duels.
 +
The original book, composed of four volumes, the Ground Book, , no longer exists.  It was a textbook on battle strategy and an instruction manual for actual warfare, not a book on philosophy and instruction for life. However, the book  teaches something of value for every person..
 +
=== volume I :The Ground Book ===
 +
This volume talks about the tactics and the strategy  of military affairs and of individual swordmanship. Musashi seems to take a very philosophical approach to the "Craft of War": "There are four Ways in which men pass through life: as Gentlemen Warriors, Farmers, Artisans and Merchants."  These categories were the groups of professionals that could be observed during Musashi's time. Throughout the book, Musashi employs the terms “way of the Warrïor,” and "true strategist" to refer to somebody who has mastered many art forms apart from those of the sword, such as tea drinking,  painting, labouring and writing, such as Musashi practiced throughout his life. Musashi was hailed as an extraordinary sumi-e artist in the use of ink monochrome,  evident in two of his famous paintings: "Shrike Perched in a Dead Tree" (Koboku Meikakuzu, 古木明確図) and "Wild Geese Among Reeds" (Rozanzu, 魯山図).
 +
He makes particular note of Artisans, and Foremen. In the time in which he was writing, the majority of the houses in Japan were made of wood. In building a house, a foreman had to employ strategy based upon the skill and ability of his workers, and surprisingly, could be seen as a model socialist.  He suggested that the ideal foreman should know his men, and not presume to make unfair demands of them.
 +
In comparison to warriors and soldiers, Musashi notes the ways in which the artisan thrives through certain circumstances ; the ruin of houses, the customers’desires for splendor, changes in the style of  houses, the tradition and name or origin of a house. These are similar to the circumstances in which warriors and soldiers thrive; the rise and fall of prefectures and countries, and other political events create a need for warriors.  The book also includes literal comparisons such as, "The carpenter uses a master plan of the building, and the Way of strategy is similar in that there is a plan of campaign”.
 +
=== Volume II: The Water Book ===
 +
In this volume Musashi explains about understanding of the initial charge and one-on-one combat. Musashi asserted that, “Both in fighting and in everyday life you should be determined through calm (tranquility).”  The purpose of self-possession is not to preserve one’s equanimity, but to be able to fight  to the utmost.  It is significant that Musashi strongly explained “Spiritual bearing in strategy” before explaining “Holding the long sword”.
  
In comparison to Warriors and soldiers, Musashi notes the ways in which the artisan thrive through events; the ruin of houses, the spleandour of houses, the style of the house, the tradition and name or origins of a house. These too, are similar to the events which are seen to have warriors and soldiers thrive; The rise and fall of prefectures, countries and other such events are what make uses for Warriors, as well as the literal comparisons of the: "''The carpenter uses a master plan of the building, and the Way of strategy is similar in that there is a plan of campaign''".
+
=== Volume III: The Fire Book ===
 +
In this volume Musashi explains the essence of how to get victory in battle. He writes, “In this Fire Book of the Ni To Ichi school of strategy, I describe fighting as fire.”
 +
This book is often quoted in modern books on business strategy and personal improvement.  Mushashi’s explanations, gained from his actual fighting experiences, can be applied in many circumstances.
 +
==== To hold down a pillow ====
 +
This means not allowing the enemy’s head to rise.
 +
Whatever the enemy tries to bring about in the fight, you will see in advance and suppress it. The idea is to check his attack at the syllable “at…”; when he jumps check his jump at the syllable “ju…”; and check his cut at”cu…”.  This strfategy means to spoil a person’s start.
 +
==== Crossing at a ford ====
 +
This description is exquisite. It means crossing the sea at a strait,or crossing over a hundred miles of broad sea at a crossing place. A good captain knows how to cross a sea route and he knows if his troops are almost across the strait or not.  Musashi said “crossing at a ford”occurs often in a man’s lifetime.Crossing at a ford in our life means overcoming a critical moment.  We also often face “crossing at a ford;” however we are unable to recognize the crucial moment.  A master of the martial arts like Musashi can detect this moment.  The Book of Five Rings summarizes “crossing at a ford” in two principles: know the times, meaning to know the enemy’s disposition; and “tread down the sword,” meaning to tread with body, tread with the spirit and to cut with a long sword, in other words,l preempt the action of your enemy.
  
 +
=== Volume IV: The Wind Book ===
 +
In this volume Musashi emphasizes the supremacy of Nitenichi-ryu (style)  over other ryu (styles).
 +
=== Volume V: The Book of the Void ===
 +
The “void” is the goal of ascetic Buddhist practice, especially as taught by the second Buddha, Nāgārjuna, founder of the Middle Path school of Mahāyāna Buddhism. Musashi says that people in this world look at things in error, and think that what they do not understand must be the void. This is not the true void.  It is bewilderment.
 +
Although Musashi talked of the “void,” his meaning” was different from the Buddhist “void.”  Musashi’s  void was the true way of strategy as a warrior.
 
=== ''The Way of Strategy'' ===
 
=== ''The Way of Strategy'' ===
  

Revision as of 12:18, 21 June 2006

Miyamoto Musashi killing a nue, by Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1798-1861).

Miyamoto Musashi (宮本 武蔵 Miyamoto Musashi, c.1584 - June 13, 1645), prior to adulthood known as Miyamoto Benosuke, was a famous Japanese swordsman, who is claimed to have been one of the most skilled swordsmen in the history of Japan. The name "Musashi" was thought to be taken from the name of a warrior monk called Musashibō Benkei who served under Minamoto no Yoshitsune, although this is still unconfirmed by historians studying Musashi's past. In any case, the name seems fitting, particularly when comparing the level of mastery of weaponry - both being able to masterfully use nine, or more weapons.

Biography

Musashi Miyamoto in his prime, wielding two Bokken.

Birth

Much of Miyamoto Musashi's early life is shrouded in mystery. His place and date of birth are uncertain, and three different places lay claim to his birthplace. Apparently he was born into a samurai family in the village of Miyamoto (in present-day Mimasaka, Okayama) in the province of Mimasaka. As a member of the Shinmen Family, his full referred to name was Shinmen Musashi no Kami Fujiwara no Genshin, which literally translates as "adult name Genshin, of the clan Fujiwara". (The word kami is different from the word meaning "god" in the Shinto religion.)

Musashi was raised as a Buddhist by his uncle, Dorinbo, after his father died when he was at the age of seven. However, from such an early age, Musashi separated his religion from his involvement in swordsmanship, as in his later life, excerpts such as the one below were thought to have been the philosophy which he had stayed with his entire life:

The Way of the warrior does not include other Ways, such as Confucianism, Buddhism, certain traditions, artistic accomplishments [,] [-and] or dancing. But even though these are not part of the Way, if you know the Way broadly you will see it in everything. Men must polish their particular Way.

The idea that Musashi hated Shinto is a somewhat misconstrued translation, since he only notes differences in its style of swordsmanship (which he refers to as "strategy") when speaking on Shinto, not in its religious artifacts or beliefs. Particularly the idea that Musashi hated Shinto for their "alien" practices is completely false because Shintoism, the native religion of Japan, wasn't alien to him at all. The possibility is that Musashi has been in much contact with Shintoists, since they were the majority of Japan at that time, and it explains the huge number of Shintoists which he duelled with or battled against.

It is said that Musashi contracted eczema in his infancy, which affected his appearance. Another story claims that he never took a bath because he did not want to be surprised unarmed, which is improbable, considering the highly honourable tone in which his battles were described, and that he would have been unlikely to be received as guest by such famous houses as Honda, Ogasawara and Hosokawa, if such were the case. These and certain other details are likely embellishments that were added to his legend, or misinterpretations of literature describing him.

Upbringing

Musashi lived with his mother until the age of seven, when she is said to have died of natural causes. It is uncertain what role his father played in his upbringing, but whatever role it was, it seems somewhat detached from that of Musashi's immediate family. It is said that Musashi would often train with his father, yet Musashi was raised by his uncle Dorinbo, a Buddhist priest, from the age of seven.

The literature leaves one unsure of his father's fate, but he may have died at the hands of one of Musashi's later adversaries, who was punished or even killed for treating Musashi's father badly. This, however, is uncertain, as there are no exact details of Musashi's life, since Musashi's only writings are those related to strategy and technique.

Training in swordsmanship

Ichijoji Sagarimatsu, Location of Battle between Musashi and Yoshioka Family

It is said that he may have studied at a school named Yoshioka, which was also said to be a school which he defeated single-handedly during his later years, although this is most likely untrue. According to the introduction of The Book of Five Rings, Musashi states that his first successful duel was at the age of thirteen, against a lesser-skilled Samurai called Arima Kihei from Kashima who fought using Shintō-ryū style.

He was known during this time to be a large child for his age, and was written about by an observer of the duel with Kihei, describing Musashi battering Kihei to death with a staff similar to a bo. According to actual transcriptures, it is thought that at this time, Musashi was keen in duelling. When Kihei was noted to arrive in town, Musashi left a note saying "I, Miyamoto Bennosuke will give you your duel".

Having accepted the challenge, despite several warnings from his uncle, Musashi was said to have charged unexpectedly at Kihei with a staff; an attack which was repelled by him drawing his sword and parrying the attack away. After this, Musashi was said to have thrown down his staff and physically grappled with Kihei, this perhaps could have been some form of indication of Musashi's keen nature of battle, but perhaps also his over-readiness to fight. After several minutes of fighting in such a manner, Musashi was said to then have picked up his staff and beaten Kihei to death by repeatedly hitting him in the face.

Although it is not expressly stated if indeed Musashi used form or technique to kill Kihei, it is quite certain that he had used the staff as a club; town reports stating that Kihei was bleeding all over his face. Nevertheless, this was Musashi's first opponent, and despite rumours, both occupants were not using wooden swords; Kihei used a sword as the duel with Musashi was unexpected. (For more information on the duel, see Arima Kihei)

According to traditional texts, he fought in the Battle of Sekigahara as a mercenary with troops loyal to Toyotomi Hideyori, although, this is not confirmed by The Book of Five Rings. Although he was by now a famed swordsman, Toyotomi was defeated.

It was also said that Musashi had to crawl through the decaying bodies of the soldiers he had once fought with in order to get to a position of safety away from pursuing hordes which were after his life. This could be perhaps, one of the earlier events which also showed Musashi's determination for survival within battle.

After the war was over, Musashi left for Edo. According to his adopted son Iori, in 1604 Musashi fought a victorious duel against master swordsman Yoshioka Seijuro using only a bokken, a wooden sword he had been famed for using in various other battles or duels.

However, it is unsure whether the battle between Seijuro was to the death, but what is reputed to have happened, is that Musashi had beaten Seijuro with such prowess, that when he had spared his life, he was unable to wield a sword afterwards, be it on the shame of defeat.

It is unsure how many times that Musashi and Seijuro were reputed to have fought; some records of the Yoshioka family stated that Musashi was defeated by Seijuro after a strike to the head, and subsequently fled, but such reports were thought to be erroneous, and an attempt of saving past grace. It is doubtful that Musashi fought Seijuro more than once, as Seijuro, once a renowned Master of the Sword, was said to have been humiliated.

This would lead to Musashi engaging in duels with the entire family, due to his reputed dislike for the way in which they had treated his father. He defeated the father of the family, as well as his two sons in latter duels; although one was thought to have been more of an ambush. (See Scott Wilson 2004 - Tokitsu 2004)

Musashi created and perfected a two-sword kenjutsu technique called niten'ichi (二天一, "two heavens as one") or nitōichi (二刀一, "two swords as one") or "Ni-Ten Ichi Ryu" (A Kongen Buddhist Sutra refers to the two heavens as the two guardians of Buddha). In this technique, the swordsman uses both a Heavy Sword, and a "Companion Sword" at the same time, such as a Katana and Wakizashi.

It is said the two-handed movements of temple drummers inspired him, although it seems more likely that the technique was forged by a means of natural selection through Musashi's combat experience, or from Jitte techniques which were taught to him by his father. In his time a long sword in the left hand was referred to as gyaku nito. Today Musashi's style of swordsmanship is known as Hyōhō Niten Ichi-ryū.

Musashi was also an expert in throwing weapons. He frequently threw his shortsword, and was reputed to have thrown a Bo staff in his first duel with Arima Kihei. In fact before the Meiji era multi faceted skills were a necessity, so the likelihood of such information is accurate. (see Hayakutake-Watkin: [1])

Musashi was a loner. He spent many years studying Buddhism and swordsmanship. He was an accomplished artist, sculptor, and calligrapher. Records also show that he had architectural skills. Also, he had a rather no-nonsense approach to fighting; with no additional frills or aesthetic considerations. This was probably due to his real-life combat experience.

Especially in his later life Musashi also followed the more artistic side of bushido. He made various Zen brush paintings and calligraphy and sculpted wood and metal. Even in The Book of Five Rings he emphasizes that samurai should understand other professions as well. It should be understood that Musashi's writings were very ambiguous. Translating them into English make them even more so. That is why we find so many copies of Gorin no Sho. One needs to read this work, Dokkodo and Hyoho Shiji ni Kajo to get a better idea of what he was about and understand his transformation from Satsujinken to Katsujinken.

Timeline

These events are details from The Book of Five Rings.

Adolescence and Maturity

From 1605 to 1612 he traveled extensively all over Japan in Musha-Shugyo, a warrior pilgrimage during which he honed his skills with duels. He was said to have used bokken or bokuto in actual duels. Most of duels from these times did not try to take the opponent's life unless both agreed, but most duels, it is known that Musashi did not care which weapon another was using - such was his mastery on the way of strategy.

He is said to have fought over 60 duels and was never defeated, although this is a conservative estimate, most likely not accounting deaths by his hand in major battles. Japanese historians seem to believe that he could not have won all of them alone, without some assistance from his students; although this is unlikely because of the sheer mastery Musashi had above his students, particularly noting that most students found his techniques difficult, even as he states in his own books.

In April 14, 1612 he had his most famous duel with Sasaki Kojiro who was using a nodachi, a type of long two-handed sword. Musashi came late and unkempt — possibly as an attempt to unnerve his opponent — and killed him with a bokken that he had made from an oar (this may be related to the Okinawan weapon known as the shureido eaku) to be longer than the nodachi, an impressive feat by the standards of any Samurai or Swordsman. Musashi switched to wood after this fight believing it to be superior in reliability to steel. He briefly established a fencing school that same year.

In 1614 - 1615 he reputedly joined the troops of Tokugawa Ieyasu when he had besieged Osaka Castle of the Toyotomi family. Some reports go so far as to say that Musashi entered a duel with Ieyasu, but was recruited after Ieyasu sensed his defeat was at hand. Although this seems unlikely, it is unknown how Musashi came into Ieyasu's good Graces.

Other accounts claim he actually served in the defending side, but such a claim is unproven. In 1615 he entered the service of Ogasawara Tadanao of the Harima province as a Foreman or "Construction Supervisor", after previously gaining skills in craft. During his service he adopted a boy called Iori and founded the Enmei Ryu school of kenjutsu.

In 1627, Musashi began to travel again. In 1634 he settled in Kokura with his step-son Iori, and later entered the service of daimyo Ogasawara Tadazane, taking a major role in the Shimabara Rebellion. Iori served with excellence in putting down the rebellion and gradually rose to the rank of karo - a position equal to a minister. Musashi, however was reputedly injured by a thrown rock while scouting in the front line, and was thus unable to accrue any form of merit.

Death

Six years later, in 1633, Musashi moved to Hosokawa Tadatoshi, daimyo of Kumamoto Castle to train and paint. In 1643 he retired to a cave named Reigandō as a hermit to write The Book of Five Rings. He finished it a couple of weeks before his death around June 13, 1645.

Many tales have been told about Musashi being killed by the creator of the Jo Staff and Aikido. However, such a report is untrue. The creator of Aikido was Ueshiba Morihei who was born in 1883, so this could not be true.

Legends

After his death, various legends began to appear. Most talk about his feats in kenjutsu and other martial arts, some describing how he was able to hurl men over 5 feet backwards, other about his speed and technique, the majority being normal recollections of past events, more than Legends.

Other, more mythically-based legends, tell of how Musashi killed giant lizards in Echizen, as well as Nues in various other prefectures. He gained the stature of Kensei, a "sword saint" for his mastery in swordsmanship.

Today, Musashi Miyamoto resides in a humble grave alongside a busy road in Kyushu which is surrounded by rice fields, and faces a dojo which is seen as fitting for Musashi, who was thought to have finally found peace in Kyushu after his many years of battle and strife.

Philosophy and Background

Musashi’s way of life and his philosophy are relevant even in today’s world, and his book is popular with businessmen in Japan and has been translated into several languages. In a modern and democratic world, Musashi’s manual on military strategy and swordsmanship is a best seller.

Musashi lived just at the end of the Age of Civil Wars and the beginning of the Edo age, when the Tokugawa ruled all of Japan, peacefully and with cunning, .for 300 years. When Tokugawa’s last enemy, the Toyotomi clan, was eliminated by Tokugawa Ieyasu at the siege of Osaka, a new era named “Genna” was ushered in, fueled by the desire of the rulers and most of the people to build a peaceful country. It meant the abandonment of arms and warfare. In the midst of this time of peace Musashi spoke of battle strategy and military philosophy. As knowledge of tactics and strategy became less useful in actual life, it became more and more valuable to the samurai. The samurai (warriors) began to form a stable government and occupy the top class of a hierarchy which ordered from top to bottom into four divisions: samurai, farmers, artisans and tradesmen. The samurai class needed military tradition to ensure their survival and show their identity. Miyamoto Musashi and his books were hailed among the feudal lords. The need to live in readiness to for battle had passed, and the samurai and feudal lords felt nostalgic for the barbarous force of the past. Miyamoto Musashi was the symbol of the old samurai spirit. Ironically the real Musashi was anti-establishment and anti-shogunate his entire life. Musashi’s life was glorified and romanticized and featured as the subject of numerous theatrical dramas and novels .

The Book of Five Rings

In his last book, Go Rin No Sho (五輪の書, The Book of Five Rings), whose subject was “pragmatism at the risk of life,” Musashi said that he fought 60 duels undefeated. He was a religious man, but he insisted that he respected the gods and Buddha without relying upon them. In the introduction of the Book of Five Rings, Mushashi suggested that he was never defeated because of his natural ability, or because of the order of heaven, or because the strategy of other schools was inferior. The order of heaven was the principle behind the strategy, and he followed it. Musashi also insisted that he never quoted the law of Buddha or the teaching of Confucius, or any old war chronicles or books on martial tactics. He spoke only of what he himself had learned from his experiences on the battlefield and in duels. The original book, composed of four volumes, the Ground Book, , no longer exists. It was a textbook on battle strategy and an instruction manual for actual warfare, not a book on philosophy and instruction for life. However, the book teaches something of value for every person..

volume I :The Ground Book

This volume talks about the tactics and the strategy of military affairs and of individual swordmanship. Musashi seems to take a very philosophical approach to the "Craft of War": "There are four Ways in which men pass through life: as Gentlemen Warriors, Farmers, Artisans and Merchants." These categories were the groups of professionals that could be observed during Musashi's time. Throughout the book, Musashi employs the terms “way of the Warrïor,” and "true strategist" to refer to somebody who has mastered many art forms apart from those of the sword, such as tea drinking, painting, labouring and writing, such as Musashi practiced throughout his life. Musashi was hailed as an extraordinary sumi-e artist in the use of ink monochrome, evident in two of his famous paintings: "Shrike Perched in a Dead Tree" (Koboku Meikakuzu, 古木明確図) and "Wild Geese Among Reeds" (Rozanzu, 魯山図). He makes particular note of Artisans, and Foremen. In the time in which he was writing, the majority of the houses in Japan were made of wood. In building a house, a foreman had to employ strategy based upon the skill and ability of his workers, and surprisingly, could be seen as a model socialist. He suggested that the ideal foreman should know his men, and not presume to make unfair demands of them. In comparison to warriors and soldiers, Musashi notes the ways in which the artisan thrives through certain circumstances ; the ruin of houses, the customers’desires for splendor, changes in the style of houses, the tradition and name or origin of a house. These are similar to the circumstances in which warriors and soldiers thrive; the rise and fall of prefectures and countries, and other political events create a need for warriors. The book also includes literal comparisons such as, "The carpenter uses a master plan of the building, and the Way of strategy is similar in that there is a plan of campaign”.

Volume II: The Water Book

In this volume Musashi explains about understanding of the initial charge and one-on-one combat. Musashi asserted that, “Both in fighting and in everyday life you should be determined through calm (tranquility).” The purpose of self-possession is not to preserve one’s equanimity, but to be able to fight to the utmost. It is significant that Musashi strongly explained “Spiritual bearing in strategy” before explaining “Holding the long sword”.

Volume III: The Fire Book

In this volume Musashi explains the essence of how to get victory in battle. He writes, “In this Fire Book of the Ni To Ichi school of strategy, I describe fighting as fire.” This book is often quoted in modern books on business strategy and personal improvement. Mushashi’s explanations, gained from his actual fighting experiences, can be applied in many circumstances.

To hold down a pillow

This means not allowing the enemy’s head to rise. Whatever the enemy tries to bring about in the fight, you will see in advance and suppress it. The idea is to check his attack at the syllable “at…”; when he jumps check his jump at the syllable “ju…”; and check his cut at”cu…”. This strfategy means to spoil a person’s start.

Crossing at a ford

This description is exquisite. It means crossing the sea at a strait,or crossing over a hundred miles of broad sea at a crossing place. A good captain knows how to cross a sea route and he knows if his troops are almost across the strait or not. Musashi said “crossing at a ford”occurs often in a man’s lifetime.Crossing at a ford in our life means overcoming a critical moment. We also often face “crossing at a ford;” however we are unable to recognize the crucial moment. A master of the martial arts like Musashi can detect this moment. The Book of Five Rings summarizes “crossing at a ford” in two principles: know the times, meaning to know the enemy’s disposition; and “tread down the sword,” meaning to tread with body, tread with the spirit and to cut with a long sword, in other words,l preempt the action of your enemy.

Volume IV: The Wind Book

In this volume Musashi emphasizes the supremacy of Nitenichi-ryu (style) over other ryu (styles).

Volume V: The Book of the Void

The “void” is the goal of ascetic Buddhist practice, especially as taught by the second Buddha, Nāgārjuna, founder of the Middle Path school of Mahāyāna Buddhism. Musashi says that people in this world look at things in error, and think that what they do not understand must be the void. This is not the true void. It is bewilderment. Although Musashi talked of the “void,” his meaning” was different from the Buddhist “void.” Musashi’s void was the true way of strategy as a warrior.

The Way of Strategy

Throughout the book, Go Rin No Shō, the idea which Musashi pushes is that the "Way of the Strategist" is similar to how a carpenter and his tools are mutually inclusive, e.g. - A carpenter can do nothing without his tools, and vice-versa. This too, he compares to skill, and tactical ability in the field of battle.

Initially, Musashi notes that throughout China and Japan, there are many "sword fencers" who walk around claiming they are Strategists, but are in fact, not - this may be due to the fact that Musashi had defeated some such Strategists, such as Arima Kihei.

The idea is that by reading his writings, you can become a true strategist from ability and tactical skill that Musashi had learned in his lifetime. He pushes that Strategy and Virtue are something which can be earned by knowing the ways of life, the professions that are around, to perhaps learn the skills and knowledge of people and the skills of their particular professions.

However, Musashi seems to state that the value of Strategy seems to be transcendental or homogenous. He notes that:

The attendants of the Kashima Kantori shrines of the province Hitachi received instruction from the gods, and made schools based on this teaching, travelling from country to country instructing men. This is the recent meaning of strategy.

As well as noting that Strategy is destined to die;

Of course, men who study in this way think they are training the body and spirit, but it is an obstacle to the true Way, and its bad influence remains for ever. Thus the true Way of strategy is becoming decadent and dying out.

As a form, strategy was said to be one of "Ten Abilities and Seven Arts" that a Warrior should have, but Musashi disagrees that one person can gain Strategy by being confined to one particular style, which seems particularly fitting as he admits " I practice many arts and abilities - all things with no teacher" - this perhaps one of the reasons he was so highly-regarded a swordsman.

The way in which he refers to Strategy is that of the Nut and the flower, similar to western philosophy of "The chicken or the egg", the "nut" being the student, the "flower" being the technique. He also seems to have experience in saying that most places seem to be mostly concerned with their technique and it's beauty, perhaps ; " In this kind of Way of strategy, both those teaching and those learning the way are concerned with coloring and showing off their technique, trying to hasten the bloom of the flower" as opposed to the actual harmony between strategy and Skill.

With those who are concerned with becoming masters of strategy, Musashi points out that as a carpenter becomes better with his tools, and is able to craft things with more expert measure ; So too can a warrior, or strategist become more skilled in his technique. However, like a carpenter needs to be able to use his tools according to plans, so too must a strategist be able to adapt his style, or technique to the required strategy of the battle he is currently engaged in.

This description is also used to make similarities between the weapons of a trooper (or soldier), and the tools of a carpenter; The idea that "the right tool for the right job" seems to be implied a lot throughout the book, Go Rin No Shō. Musashi also puts into motion the idea that when a Carpenter is skilled enough in aspects of his job, and creates them with expert measure, then he can become a foreman.

Although it is not expressly mentioned, it may be seen that Musashi indicated that when you have learned the areas in which your craft requires, be it carpentry, farming, fine art or battle, and are able to apply them to any given situation, then you will be experienced enough to show others the wisdom of your ways, be it as a foreman of craftsmen, or as a general of an army.

From further reading into the book, the idea of "Weapons within strategy", as well as Musashi referring to the power of the Writer, may seem that the Strategy which Musashi refers to does not exclusively reside within the domain of weaponry and duels, butn within the realm of war and battles with many men:

Just as one man can beat ten, so a hundred men can beat a thousand, and a thousand can beat ten thousand. In my strategy, one man is the same as ten thousand, so this strategy is the complete warrior's craft.

Of Ni-Ten Ichi Ryu

Within the book, Musashi mentions that the use of Two swords within strategy is mutually beneficial between those who utilise this skill. The idea of using two hands for a sword is an idea which Musashi disagrees with, in that there is not fluidity in movement when using two hands - "If you hold a sword with both hands, it is difficult to wield it freely to left and right, so my method is to carry the sword in one hand", as well as the idea of using a sword with two hands on a horse, and/or riding on unstable terrain , such as muddy swamps, rice fields, or within crowds of people.

In order to learn the strategy of Ni-Ten Ichi Ryu, Musashi employs that by training with two long swords, one in each hand, you will be able to overcome the cumbersome nature of using a sword in both hands. Although difficult, Musashi agrees that there are times in which the Longsword must be used with two hands, but if your skill is good enough, you should not need it. The idea of using two longswords is that you are starting with something to which you are unaccustomed, and that you will find difficult, but will adapt to after much use.

After using two longswords proficiently enough, Musashi then states that your mastery of a Longsword, and a "Companion Sword", most likely a wakizashi, will be much increased - "When you become used to wielding the long sword, you will gain the power of the Way and wield the sword well.".

In short, it could be seen that from the excerpts from Go Rin No Shō, the real strategy behind Ni-Ten No Ichi Ryu, is that there is no real iron-clad method, path, or type of weaponry that is specific to the style of Ni-Ten No Ichi Ryu:

You can win with a long weapon, and yet you can also win with a short weapon. In short, the Way of the Ichi school is the spirit of winning, whatever the weapon and whatever its size.

Of the Long Sword

The strategy of the long sword is different to other strategies, in that is much more straightforward. In the strategy of the longsword, it seems that Musashi's ideal is that by learning to grasp the sword with two fingers, and master such a grip, that that will be a platform used for moving onto the mastery of Ni-Ten Ichi Ryu, as well as being able to use two broadswords, or more masterfully use a companion sword.

However, just because the grip is to be light, it does not mean that the attack or slash from the sword will be weak. Like with any other technique in the Ni-Ten Ichi Ryu, he notes:

If you try to wield the long sword quickly you will mistake the Way. To wield the long sword well you must wield it calmly. If you try to wield it quickly, like a folding fan or a short sword, you will err by using "short sword chopping". You cannot cut down a man with a long sword using this method.

Like with most disciplines in martial arts, Musashi notes that the movement of the sword after the cut is made must not be superfluous; instead of quickly returning to a stance or position, one should allow the sword to come to the end of its path from the force used. In this manner, the technique will become freely flowing, as opposed to abrupt; this principle is also taught in Tai Chi Ch'uan.

Myths

  • It was said that Musashi always "grasped his swords tightly" by many people reading information about him. However, he categorically states that your grip must not be too tight as it restricts your movement with a sword.
  • It has also been said that Musashi used nothing but a Wakizashi and a Katana. This is completely false. It is described countless times that Musashi would prefer a wooden sword over a katana in duels.

Miyamoto Musashi in fiction

There have been thirty six films made about Musashi, including six with the title of "Miyamoto Musashi" and a television series about his life. Even in Musashi's time there were fictional texts resembling comic books. It is therefore quite difficult to seperate fact from fiction when discussing Musashi.

See also

Miyamoto Musashi Station

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

Biography of Miyamoto Musashi

  1. William Scott Wilson. (2004). The Lone Samurai. Kodansha International. ISBN 4-7700-2942-X.

Writings of Miyamoto Musashi

  1. The 19 Articles of Self-Discipline
  2. The 35 Articles of Swordsmanship
  3. Dokkodo, (The Path of Self-Reliance)
  4. Go Rin No Shō / The Book of Five Rings (in reference to the Five Rings of Zen Buddhism)
  5. The Way of walking Alone (or The Way of Self-Reliance)

External links

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