The Art of Peace

Teachings of the Founder of Aikido

By: John Stevens - translator, Morihei Ueshiba

Narrated by: Brian Nishii

The inspirational teachings in this collection show that the real way of the warrior is based on compassion, wisdom, fearlessness, and love of nature. The teachings are drawn from the talks and writings of Morihei Ueshiba, founder of the popular Japanese martial art of Aikido, a mind-body discipline he called the "Art of Peace", which offers a nonviolent way to victory in the face of conflict. Ueshiba believed that Aikido principles could be applied to all the challenges we face in life - in personal relationships, as we interact with society, and at work and in business.

This edition is a much-expanded version of the original miniature edition that appeared in the Shambhala Pocket Classics series. It features a wealth of new material, including a biography of Ueshiba; an essay by John Stevens that presents Ueshiba's views on "The Art of War versus the Art of Peace"; newly translated doka, didactic "Poems of the Way"; and Ueshiba's own calligraphies.

©2002 John Stevens (P)2016 Audible, Inc.

A really great book

An awesome book that I found to be developmental and maturative for a young man coming of age such as myself. I found this book to be relatable and generally worthwhile to get through. I found it also to be highly intelligent and I further highly recommend this book.

Quick intro into martial arts and Japanese philosophy

I enjoyed their audio book because it involves the philosophy of aikido and Japanese culture. There is wisdom in how we perceive and influence the world around us.

Inspirational universal wisdom.

Excellent narrative. Perfect pronunciation and historical content. I laughed and cried, goosebumped from head to toe, and felt the warm current of chi welling up then circulating within me. I have wanted to study Aikido for years, and now I know why. This has been exactly my thought process concerning the martial arts throughout my practice and study. I will continue to re-listen to O'Sensei's timeless wisdom over and over. Truly a priceless treasure.

Story and performance of this book

History of Aikido founder and the principles of The Art of Peace. Recommended to any Aikido student.

Required Reading

This should be on every person's book list. Whether relatable or not, it is material that should be experienced. I recommend to every kind of reader.

A little book packed with loads of wisdom

I practiced aikido for a few months before the pandemic as a sport. But then I found out that aikido is not a sport, but a way of living. This book is worth listening and relistening by anyone interested in the way of living :)

Resonates with my life

This is the most needed story I had to hear. The Art of Peace is a path that I could not perceive before, but now when I’m having trouble finding direction in life I believe this story will show me to the light I’m looking for.

The best way to get the overall big picture of this book is this audio form

I’ve been reading this book often , on and off for over 20 years and listening to it in this format is the best summary
I’ve come across. It leaves nothing out and includes more context than I knew.

Highly recommended!

If you are at conflict with yourself on trying to be a warrior,but not filled with rage and anger. This book is very enlightening and helps you understand the way to pushing beyond that conflicting ideology.

Not a bad book

I read it, due to my love of TWD. I expected a little more but overall it's a nice read if you're a fan of morgan