Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai

Yamamoto Tsunetomo

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English translation of the eighteenth-century Japanese text that delves into the samurai mind.

Hagakure is a must-have for serious martial artists or fans of samurai and the bushido code.

Hagakure Kikigaki, is a practical and spiritual guide for a warrior, drawn from a collection of commentaries by the clerk Yamamoto Tsunetomo, former retainer to Nabeshima Mitsushige (July 10, 1632 - July 2, 1700), the third ruler of what is now Saga Prefecture in Japan. Tashiro Tsuramoto compiled these commentaries from his conversations with Tsunetomo from 1709 to 1716; however, it was not published until many years afterwards.

The book grapples with the dilemma of maintaining a warrior class in the absence of war and reflects the author's nostalgia for a world that had disappeared before he was born. Hagakure was largely forgotten for two centuries after its composition, but it came to be viewed as the definitive guide of the armed forces of the Empire of Japan during the Pacific War.

Hagakure is also known as The Book of the Samurai, Analects of Nabeshima or Hagakure Analects.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Unwavering Loyalty: Samurai were expected to prioritize loyalty above all else, even at the cost of their lives. Loyalty to their masters was of paramount importance.

  2. Embracing Death: The acceptance and contemplation of death were crucial aspects of the samurai mindset, leading them to live courageously and without fear.

  3. Mindfulness and Presence: The philosophy of living fully in the present moment without dwelling excessively on the past or worrying about the future was central to the samurai way of life.

  4. Simplicity and Frugality: Encouraging a minimalist lifestyle, the book promotes the idea of living modestly and avoiding material distractions.

  5. Discipline and Training: Samurai were expected to undergo rigorous training and adhere to strict discipline to cultivate mental fortitude, resilience, and mastery in their pursuits.

  6. Humility and Etiquette: Humility and proper etiquette were highly valued. Samurai were expected to behave with grace and respect towards others, regardless of their status.

  7. Adaptability and Resourcefulness: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and employ resourcefulness in various situations was an essential trait for a samurai.

  8. Courage and Fearlessness: Samurai were taught to be fearless in the face of danger, demonstrating unwavering courage in their actions and decisions.

  9. Servitude and Duty: Service and fulfilling one's duty were fundamental to the samurai ethos, guiding their actions and behaviors in service to their lord and society.

  10. Spiritual Development: The book emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth and self-improvement as integral components of the samurai path, encouraging introspection and personal refinement.

Language English
ISBN-13 9789395741972
No of pages 138
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher Sanage Publishing House
Published Date 02 Nov 2022

About Author

Author : Yamamoto Tsunetomo

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