Training the Samurai Mind

A Bushido Sourcebook

By: Thomas Cleary - translator/editor

Narrated by: Brian Nishii

Length: 8 hrs and 15 mins

Publisher's summary

Through the ages, the samurai have been associated with honor, fearlessness, calm, decisive action, strategic thinking, and martial prowess. Their ethos is known as bushido, the Way of the Warrior-Knight. Here, premier translator Thomas Cleary presents a rich collection of writings on bushido by warriors, scholars, political advisors, and educators from the 15th century through the 19th century that provide a comprehensive, historically rich view of samurai life and philosophy. Training the Samurai Mind gives an insider's view of the samurai world: the moral and psychological development of the warrior, the ethical standards they were meant to uphold, their training in both martial arts and strategy, and the enormous role that the traditions of Shintoism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism had in influencing samurai ideals.

The writings deal with a broad range of subjects - from military strategy and political science, to personal discipline and character development. Cleary introduces each piece, putting it into historical context, and presents biographical information about the authors. This is an essential listen for anyone interested in military history and samurai history, and for martial artists who want to understand strategy.

©2008 Thomas Cleary (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Excellent Narrative.

An excellent use of the Art of War , bringing forth
the Way of the samurai for modern eye's to see
the true way of the warrior.
Excellent narration, the manorism to which he speaks in the second and third person
perspectives makes this perfect for the mind of the commoner, not just aristocrats. Enjoy.

Calm the mind

This book was so mentally relaxing. It is easy to understand and it makes you feel like you are sharpening the blade that is your mind. Fun read and well worth the listen!

EXCELLENT

I highly recommend listening to this book.
So much interesting information and such a philosophy to apply to our daily life.
In looking back, I realize that my father, an expert “ black belt “ in martial arts, raised me in many ways on the principals described in the book.
I am a female, 86 yrs.old now and he taught me martial arts for “ self defense “ as I was growing up.
So all in all I highly recommend this book.
Brian Nishii as the narrator was an excellent choice. Only he can narrate a book such as this, he is an EXPERT!!
My thanks to all involved, JK.

A Warrior's Mindset!

Great book for anyone interested in a warriors mindset. If you are a Martial Artist you should listen to this book.

Gem of life!

Incredible in every sense of the use of the word. I am speechless at the clarity and rationality of its core principles. Thank you for preserving and making this work known, I will listen and meditate upon the wisdom contained for a really long time having to listen to it perhaps but the physical copy several times much like the use of a bible for worldly conduct !

Legit

I listened to this multiple times. tbh it might only be good for those with the mindset to understand the lessons.

A great classic

Read it as a book a long time ago ... As an audible book I have once again fell in love with it again... Specially as the narrator has perfect pronunciation of Japanese words and names !

Recommended for any one who is searching for a Samurai mind ...

Excellent and informative

The book is laid out in a way that is easy to follow, even if some of the names are less easy to remember.
The details are very interesting and the way they are linked to life and history is very thought provoking.
A wonderful book
I will listen again

Thorough knowledge of the country Martial history and evolution of philosophy.

I like that the Warriors way is in sync with universal law. These teachings and lessons are timeless and relevant

History, Philosophy, Spirituality, and Martial Art

A Japanese classical work that details the depth and wonder of the Samurai concept. It is sweeping in the subject matter that was the heart, soul, spirit, and body of the Samurai. More than just a warrior well trained in the art of combat a Samurai was also a man of well-rounded studies and knowledge. I enjoyed the book especially because it took me inside the heart, soul, and mind of a Samurai warrior. It was enlightening to discover just how knowledgeable a man had to be to become a Samurai. Teachings not only covered what I have listed in the title above but also ethics and social behaviors. The mind of a Samurai was truly far more than a deadly and effective killing machine. Once again I have zero complaints concerning the narration. The narrator was excellent and a joy to listen to.