way and strategy i

excerpts from a book of five rings

the ground book
>The foreman carpenter allots his men work according to their ability.

It is difficult to know yourself if you do not know others.

When you appreciate the power of nature, knowing the rhythm of any situation, you will be able to hit the enemy naturally and strike naturally.

 This is the truth: when you sacrifice your life, you must make fullest use of your weaponry.

However, when it is difficult to cut an enemy down eith one hand, you must use both hands.

It will seem difficult at first, but everything is difficult at first.

 The long sword should be wielded broadly, and the companion sword closely.

In short, the Way of the Ichi school is the spirit of winning, whatever the weapon and whatever its size.

If he attains the virtue of the long sword, one man can beat ten men.

 Men must polish their particular Way.

Weapons should be hardy rather than decorative.


You should not have a favourite weapon.

 To become over-familiar with one weapon is as much a fault as not knowing it sufficiently well.

 Timing in strategy cannot be mastered without a great deal of practice.

In all skills and abilities there is timing.

, first seeing the distance timing and the background timing.

Do not think dishonestly.
The Way is in training.
Become aquainted with every art.
Know the Ways of all professions.
Distinguish between gain and loss in worldly matters.
Develop intuitive judgement and understanding for everything.
Perceive those things which cannot be seen.
Pay attention even to trifles.
Do nothing which is of no use.