Synopses & Reviews
The ancient warrior culture of Japan produced a sophisticated martial philosophy that we know today as Bushido—the Way of the Warrior. In
Samurai Wisdom, author Thomas Clearly provides five important new translations of major Japanese works on Bushido.
The writings of the scholar Yamaga Soko and his disciples are among the clearest expositions we have of the core ideals and philosophy underlying the Samurai's disciplined way of life and outlook. Together they provide an in-depth, practical guide to character building and conduct according to the precepts of Bushido—a code for professional warriors that retains as much relevance in today's world as it had when these works were written 400 years ago.
Yamaga's writings inspired the transformation of the Samurai from a feudal class of warriors under the command of the Shogun to a group of powerful individuals with great intellectual, political and moral leadership and influence. The works translated in Samurai Wisdom for the very first time are as timeless and important today as the works of Sun Tzu, Musashi and Clausewitz.
The five Japanese works on Bushido translated in Samurai Wisdom are:
- The Way of the Knight by Yamaga Soko
- The Warrior's Rule by Tsugaru Kodo-shi
- Essentials of Military Matters compiled by Yamaga Takatsune
- The Education of Warriors by Yamaga Soko
- Primer of Martial Education by Yamaga Soko
Review
"Samurai Wisdom is absolutely excellent. Not only does this book provide the reader with a deep understanding of the samurai mind and their values, but if studied and applied, it also provides the reader with many valuable principles to live by in today's world. [T]his is one of Thomas Cleary's best books."—Bodhi Sanders, author of Warrior Wisdom: The Warrior's Path
Review
"[A] refreshing look at the life of the samurai, his history, his way of thinking, the reason & benefits for living the way they did & a deep insight into their minds."—Terry Tozer, Traditional Japanese Shotokan Karate Academy (TJSKA)
Review
"These books provide a fascinating glimpse into the psyche of Edo period samurai and their struggles to retain the skills of war while remaining relevant in a time of peace, and they're also very affordable."—TheShogunsHouse.com
Review
"…presents modern versions of five texts on the traditional Japanese martial ways."—Black Belt magazine
About the Author
Thomas Cleary is one of the best known and most accomplished translators of the ancient wisdom of Asia. His work includes The Art of War, The Book of Five Rings, Code of the Samurai, Soul of the Samurai and Secrets of the Japanese Art of Warfare, as well as over 70 other books on Asian martial history and philosophy, Buddhism and Taoism.