Samurai Wisdom: Lessons from Japan's Warrior Culture - Five Classic Texts on Bushido

Samurai Wisdom is absolutely excellent. Not only does this book provide the reader with a deep understanding of the samurai mind and their values, but if studied and applied, it also provides the reader with many valuable principles to live by in today's world. This book is a good translation of five literary works concerning Bushido from Yamaga Soko (1622-1685). In my opinion, this is one of Thomas Cleary's best books (and I have enjoyed many of his books).I highly recommend this book for anyone who is interested in Samurai history, Bushido, or the warrior lifestyle, or who just plain wants to develop his or her character in a world becoming more and more void of character and integrity. This book is excellent. Don't just read it, but apply it to your life. 5 Stars!Bohdi Sanders, author of the award-winning bestseller,  Modern Bushido: Living a Life of Excellence

I'm not a fan of Thomas Cleary. I much prefer the translations done by William Scott Wilson and Ralph D. Sawyer particularly when the subject of war or warrior hood comes into play. Mr. Cleary's work tends to be aimed at the Scholar or Businessman not the Professional Warrior or Martial Artist. Mr. Cleary did an excellent job with these works making them come to life for the 21st century reader. Having read other English translations in academic sources (like Monumentia Nipponica) not available to the average Joe, I believe he out did himself.

Great read if you're a ninja that never trained. I have no idea what they are talking about in this book. I thought I'd become wiser but that's not the case here...... Maybe crazier?

This excellent translation of the writings of Confucianist samurai Yamaga Soko and some of his followers goes a long way in correcting the false impression created unintentionally by Cleary and others that Bushido was a predominantly Zen ethos. On a side note, the leaders of the famous 47 Ronin raid were inspired by Soko's writing.

The book provides good insight in the thinking of the Samurai class. The preface assumes some background knowledge of the regions / philosophies of that time requiring some additional research to full appreciate the work.

Its intresting but i lost intrest after a week.

Product as described, fast shipping!

Great