Thoughts on International & Global Education
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Musings on Japanese and Ryukyu Budo
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International & Global Education
Recently I have been recommending this book to more people than usual. I thought I would provide a very short synopsis and encourage anyone with a passing interest in Japanese Budo to read this book. The title translates roughly to "The Mysterious Records of Immovable Wisdom". I utilise a chapter reference approach although to be more accurate the work is actually a series of three three-part treatise with some additional works in between these.
The Mysterious Record of Immovable Wisdom is divided into the following sections:
Chapter 1: Introduction The introduction provides a historical context for "The Unfettered Mind" by Takuan Soho, focusing on his teachings and their relevance to Japanese budo, the martial arts tradition. It highlights Takuan's background as a Zen master and his interactions with Yagyu Munenori, a renowned swordsman. This chapter establishes the connection between Zen philosophy and the practice of Japanese budo, emphasising the significance of cultivating a clear and focused mind in martial arts. Chapter 2: The Mysterious Record of Immovable Wisdom In this chapter, Takuan delves into the concept of immovable wisdom, analysing its implications for practitioners of Japanese budo. He explores the process of cultivating a steadfast and clear mind, which is of paramount importance in martial arts. Immovable wisdom allows martial artists to maintain composure, make wise decisions, and act with precision during combat situations, enhancing their effectiveness in the pursuit of budo. Chapter 3: The Sword That Kills and the Sword That Gives Life This chapter delves into the philosophical underpinnings of the sword in the context of Japanese budo. Takuan expounds upon the distinction between the sword that kills and the sword that gives life, shedding light on the ethical dimensions of martial arts practice. It underscores that budo is not solely focused on aggression or defeating opponents, but rather on the responsibility of protecting life and maintaining harmony within the martial arts community. Chapter 4: The Mind That Is No Mind The concept of "no mind" or "empty mind" discussed by Takuan is examined in relation to its application within the realm of Japanese budo. Takuan elucidates that a mind unburdened by attachment, distraction, and preconceptions is crucial for martial artists. This state of mind enables practitioners to respond spontaneously and intuitively, adapting swiftly to the dynamic nature of combat situations, and optimising their proficiency in budo. Chapter 5: The Water-Scroll Paintings The metaphor of water-scroll paintings is utilised by Takuan to illustrate the impermanence of life, resonating profoundly within the realm of Japanese budo. Similar to the ever-changing images in the scroll paintings, martial artists must embrace the fluidity and transience of combat. This chapter underscores the significance of adaptability, flow, and the ability to respond adeptly to the unpredictable nature of martial arts encounters. Chapter 6: The Zen Path of Enlightenment This chapter explores the Zen path of enlightenment and its connection to the practice of Japanese budo. Takuan emphasises the crucial role of self-discipline, unwavering commitment to practice, and the pursuit of self-improvement within the context of martial arts. These teachings align with the fundamental principles of budo, which underscore the cultivation of discipline, respect, and personal growth through dedicated training. Chapter 7: Abandoning the Familiar Chapter 7 delves into the teachings that urge martial artists to relinquish familiar patterns and embrace the unfamiliar, critically applicable within Japanese budo. Martial arts training often necessitates breaking free from comfort zones, challenging limitations, and exploring new techniques or strategies. By releasing attachment to the familiar, martial artists can expand their repertoire of skills, develop innovative approaches to combat, and nurture their personal evolution within the martial arts discipline. Chapter 8: The Body Moves, Mind Moves This chapter places emphasis on the inherent interconnectedness of the mind and body, which constitutes a cornerstone of Japanese budo philosophy. Takuan highlights the profound significance of physical and mental discipline, employing the context of martial arts to underscore the criticality of a focused mind in conjunction with precise physical movements. Martial artists strive to harmonise their mind and body, attaining optimal performance and effectiveness through synchronised action. Chapter 9: The Mind Neither Stops Nor Wanders Chapter 9 delves into the issue of the wandering mind and its impact on the practice of Japanese budo. Takuan underscores the imperative of cultivating a mind that remains fully engaged and present in each moment. In budo, distractions and wandering thoughts can impede concentration and reaction time. By cultivating mindfulness and unwavering focus, practitioners can enhance their awareness, clarity, and responsiveness in combat scenarios. Chapter 10: Extinguishing the Inner Fire The final chapter examines the concept of extinguishing the inner fire, which corresponds to desires and attachments that can consume the martial artist's mind. Within the realm of Japanese budo, practitioners strive to cultivate a mindset free from ego, anger, and personal desires. By relinquishing these attachments, martial artists can attain a state of inner peace and clarity, facilitating skilful and virtuous action within the martial arts domain. These revised chapter summaries provide a comprehensive exploration of how each chapter in "The Unfettered Mind" by Takuan Soho relates specifically to Japanese budo, elucidating the concepts of mindset, discipline, adaptability, presence, and personal growth inherent within this martial arts tradition. to edit. Okinawan and Japanese Budo
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James M. HatchInternational Educator who happens to be passionate about Chito Ryu Karate. Born in Ireland, educated in Canada, matured in Japan Archives
January 2025
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