Description
Book Synopsis:
The classic samurai-era text that fused Japanese swordsmanship with Zen philosophy—written by the incomparable Zen master Takuan Soho.
Written by the seventeenth-century Zen master Takuan Soho (1573–1645), The Unfettered Mind is a book of advice on swordsmanship and the cultivation of right mind and intention. It was written as a guide for the samurai Yagyu Munenori, who was a great swordsman and rival to the legendary Miyamoto Musashi. Takuan was a giant in the history of Zen; he was also a gardener, calligrapher, poet, author, adviser to samurai and shoguns, and a pivotal figure in Zen painting. He was known for his brilliance and acerbic wit.
In these succinct and pointed essays, Takuan is concerned primarily with understanding and refining the mind—both generally and when faced with conflict. The Unfettered Mind was a major influence on the classic manifestos on swordsmanship that came after it, including Miyamoto Musashi's Book of Five Rings and Yagyu Munenori's Life-Giving Sword.
Details
Unlock the secrets of ancient wisdom with The Unfettered Mind: Writings from a Zen Master to a Master Swordsman. Immerse yourself in the fusion of Japanese swordsmanship and Zen philosophy, as penned by the legendary Zen master Takuan Soho. This seventeenth-century masterpiece serves as a guide to not only mastering the art of swordsmanship but also cultivating the right mind and intention.
What sets The Unfettered Mind apart is Takuan's unparalleled expertise, not only as a Zen master but as a multi-talented individual. Beyond his mastery in Zen, he was a gardener, calligrapher, poet, and author, with close ties to samurai and shoguns. His brilliance and acerbic wit shine through in every essay, as he dives deep into understanding and refining the mind.
The Unfettered Mind serves as a cornerstone for samurai culture and philosophy, influencing renowned manifestos on swordsmanship like Miyamoto Musashi's Book of Five Rings and Yagyu Munenori's Life-Giving Sword. Allow yourself to be guided by the wisdom of Takuan Soho and discover the principles that have shaped the great warriors throughout history.
Dare to embark on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment through The Unfettered Mind. Unleash your inner strength and channel the power of a clear and focused mind. Don't miss out on this timeless masterpiece – grab your copy today and step into the shoes of a samurai.
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