Hagakure: The Book of the Samurai

Posted by Ali Reda | Posted in | Posted on 4/08/2015

The Way of the Samurai is in the death of his ego, so he selflessly lives a life that embraces death with honor. So deals with the transcendental area including both life and death. If man considers himself dead, he will live his life in complete peace.

Accepting Death is the only way to be free


The Way of the Samurai is found in death. When it comes to either/or, there is only the quick choice of death. It is not particularly difficult. Be determined and advance. To say that dying without reaching one's aim is to die a dog's death is the frivolous way of sophisticates. When pressed with the choice of life or death, it is not necessary to gain one's aim. We all want to live. And in large part we make our logic according to what we like. But not having attained our aim and continuing to live is cowardice. This is a thin dangerous line. To die without gaining one's aim is a dog's death and fanaticism. But there is no shame in this. This is the substance of the Way of the Samurai. If by setting one's heart right every morning and evening, one is able to live as though his body were already dead, he gains freedom in the Way. His whole life will be without blame, and he will succeed in his calling.

Be always prepared, you may not have time


Although all things are not to be judged in this manner, I mention it in the investigation of the Way of the Samurai. When the time comes, there is no moment for reasoning. And if you have not done your inquiring beforehand , there is most often shame. Reading books and listening to people's talk are for the purpose of prior resolution. Above all, the Way of the Samurai should be in being aware that you do not know what is going to happen next, and in querying every item day and night. Victory and defeat are matters of the temporary force of circumstances.

A person who knows but a little will put on an air of knowledge. This is a matter of inexperience. When someone knows something well, it will not be seen in his manner.

Live in the moment and free your mind from anything else.


There is surely nothing other than the single purpose of the present moment. A man's whole life is a succession of moment after moment. If one fully understands the present moment, there will be nothing else to do, and nothing else to pursue. Live being true to the single purpose of the moment.

A Samurai's Vows

  1. Never be outdone in the Way of the Samurai.
  2. To be of good use to the master.
  3. To be filial toward my parents.
  4. To manifest great compassion, and to act for the sake of Man.

Comments (2)

  1. Thank you for sharing I am new to this Way, and have taken to it as I think and wish to remold some deep layers, of should I say, shed of some deep deep layers of pain.

  2. Thank you for sharing I am new to this Way, and have taken to it as I think and wish to remold some deep layers, of should I say, shed of some deep deep layers of pain.

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