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Although it is difficult to grasp it from the book, Go Rin No Sho, these books
are actually the teachings which Musashi preached to his students
in his own dojo. Despite the ideas from others, the books are not
based on any other school of teaching.
The five "books" refer to the idea that there are different elements
of battle, just as there are different physical elements in life,
as described by Buddhism, Shinto, and other Eastern religions. The
Five books below are descriptions by Musashi of exact methods, or
techniques which are described by such elements.
The term "Ichi School", which is referred to in the book, Go Rin
No Sho, when referring to such books, refers to "Niten No Ichi Ryu",
or "Ni Ten Ichi Ryu", which literally translated, means "Two Swords,
one heaven", although the translation could be seen by many as "Two
Swords, One spirit", or "Two Swords, One Entity". However, the translation
of "Two Swords, one Dragon" was thought to be a transliteral misinterpretation
of the Kanji "Ryu".
- The Ground chapter serves as an introduction, and
metaphorically discusses martial arts, leadership, and training
as building a house.
- The Water chapter describes Musashi's style, Ni-ten
ichi-ryu, or "Two Heavens, One Style". It describes some basic
technique and fundamental principles.
- The Fire chapter refers to the heat of battle,
and discusses matters such as different types of timing.
- The Wind chapter is something of a pun, since the
Japanese character can mean both "wind" and "style" (e.g., of
martial arts). It discusses what Musashi considers to be the failings
of various contemporary schools of swordfighting.
- The Void chapter is a short epilogue, describing,
in more esoteric terms, Musashi's probably Zen-influenced thoughts
on consciousness and the correct mindset.
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