"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."
Quote Details
Added by wikiquote-import-bot
Unverified quote
0 likes
Non-fiction authorsBuddhist monksBuddhists from JapanMartial artists from JapanPhilosophers from Japan
Original Language: English
Available Languages (1)
Sources
Revision History
No revisions have been submitted for this quote.
Categories
Yamamoto Tsunetomo
Yamamoto Tsunetomo (12 June 1659 – 1719) was a samurai of the Saga Domain in Hizen Province under his lord Nabeshima Mitsushige. He was famous for his sayings in Hagakure [In the Shadow of Leaves], a controversial exposition of his views on Bushido (the "Way of the Warrior"). He is also known as Yamamoto Jocho, the name he took after becoming a monk.
45 quotes on TrueQuotesView all quotes by Yamamoto Tsunetomo →
Related Quotes
"Although it stands to reason that a samurai should be mindful of the Way of the Samurai, it would seem that we are al…"
"According to their nature, there are both people who have quick intelligence, and those who must withdraw and take ti…"
"It is difficult for a fool's habits to change to selflessness. ... Because we do most things relying only on our own …"
"To give a person one's opinion and correct his faults is an important thing. It is compassionate and comes first in m…"
"All of man's work is a bloody business. That fact, today, is considered foolish, affairs are finished cleverly with w…"
"To hate injustice and stand on righteousness is a difficult thing. Furthermore, to think that being righteous is the …"
"There is a saying that great genius matures late. If something is not brought to fruition over a period of twenty to …"
"If you are slain in battle, you should be resolved to have your corpse facing the enemy."
"If everyone were in accord and left things to Providence, their hearts would be at ease. If they are not in accord, t…"
"The eleven volumes of this book are to be burned after they are read. There are some people in this book who are stil…"