The Book of Five Rings: The Definitive Translation of the Timeless Masterpiece by Japan’s Greatest Samurai

The classic text on the code of the warrior by legendary samurai Musashi (1584–1645) has been newly and artfully translated by Bennett, a professor of Japanese history and holder of black belts in several Japanese martial arts. Written near the end of Musashi’s life, the text is still widely read for practical purposes, by some as a business guide, by others as a Zen Buddhist treatise. The five chapters discussing the rings (earth, water, fire, wind, ether) offer tactics for self-mastery, understanding opponents, and training for victory. In an informative introduction, Bennett takes great care to separate the myths from the known facts of Musashi’s life, while covering Japanese history and Musashi’s daring exploits—including over 60 duels to the death—during the Edo period. Bennett also addresses the samurai’s lasting influence, including on the warrior ideology of early 20th-century Japan and through the lively tourist trade in historical sites where Musashi lived or fought. Extensive footnotes offer illumination on topics ranging from the fragility of weapons in combat to the shades of meaning in ideograms. Color illustrations enhance this superb new edition of a classic, an evident labor of love. (Oct.)