Hagakure
Hagakure ("In the Shadow of Leaves") is a manual for the samurai classes consisting of a series of short anecdotes and reflections that give both insight and instruction-in the philosophy and code of behavior that foster the true spirit of Bushido-the Way of the Warrior. It is not a book of
philosophy as most would understand the word: it is a collection of thoughts and sayings recorded over a period of seven years, and as such covers a wide variety of subjects, often in no particular sequen... (show more)
Hagakure ("In the Shadow of Leaves") is a manual for the samurai classes consisting of a series of short anecdotes and reflections that give both insight and instruction-in the philosophy and code of behavior that foster the true spirit of Bushido-the Way of the Warrior. It is not a book of
philosophy as most would understand the word: it is a collection of thoughts and sayings recorded over a period of seven years, and as such covers a wide variety of subjects, often in no particular sequence.
The work represents an attitude far removed from our modern pragmatism and materialism, and possesses an intuitive rather than rational appeal in its assertion that Bushido is a Way of Dying, and that only a samurai retainer prepared and willing to die at any moment can be totally true to his lord.
While Hagakure was for many years a secret text known only to the warrior vassals of the Hizen fief to which the author belonged, it later came to be recognized as a classic exposition of samurai thought and came to influence many subsequent generations, including Yukio Mishima.
This translation offers 300 selections that constitute the core texts of the 1,300 present in the original.
Hagakure was featured prominently in the film Ghost Dog, by Jim Jarmusch. (show less)
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Reviews (See all 28) Write a reviewfor this
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This book turned out to be a set of random passages and ideal life-lessons which both Samurai had picked up, stuck in a book and hoped someone would read 'n learn from years down the road.
At first, I was very pleased with what I was reading and learning. After a while, the stories became seemingly pointless to anything related to me or anyone random person. Then again, it was written back when times were different and if you had dishonored someone, you were likely to lose your head.
In th... (show more)
This book turned out to be a set of random passages and ideal life-lessons which both Samurai had picked up, stuck in a book and hoped someone would read 'n learn from years down the road.
At first, I was very pleased with what I was reading and learning. After a while, the stories became seemingly pointless to anything related to me or anyone random person. Then again, it was written back when times were different and if you had dishonored someone, you were likely to lose your head.
In the end, I took the important parts for what they were: simple, life-assisting passages to help me through either tough times or complex situations. I even use it for when I play sport.
It's a reference book that I shall keep next to me for years to come. I should go back and highlight some of the passages for gloomy days. (show less)
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An interesting work that is not a linear story, but a collection of thoughts and anecdotes - from opening a book and having it smell of cloves, to the proper way for a Kaishaku to perform his duty in ensuring the swift end of one who commits seppuku. I found this useful in my own profession as a soldier - the idea of the warrior, and the inherent gems of truth to be found in the pages of this work.
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