Complete Musashi by Miyamoto Musashi

Author:Miyamoto Musashi
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Tuttle Publishing

It is difficult to write about such matters in detail. Read what I have outlined here and find ways to work it out for yourself. These three initiatives must be employed in line with to the right time and principles. Although you will not always be the first to attack, seize the initiative to control your opponent’s movement.10 Whatever the case, train diligently to forge a spirit that seeks victory through the application of strategic wisdom.

(3) About “Stopping the Start” （一、枕をおさゆると云事）

“Stopping the start”11 involves not allowing the enemy’s head to rise. In the Way of combat is it perilous to go on the defensive in a bout by allowing yourself to be manipulated. Whatever it takes, you must be the one who dominates. It stands to reason that both you and the enemy are of the same mind, so taking the initiative and leading him will be difficult unless you can read his intentions. Blocking his attack, deflecting his thrusts and breaking free of his grip means that you are on the back foot in terms of combat strategy.

Through mastery of the correct Way, “stopping the start” involves anticipating your opponent’s movements in a fight, knowing what he will do before he knows himself. Stop his strike at the “S…” and do not allow him to continue. This is the mindset of “stopping the start.” As he attacks, stop him at the “A….” When he leaps back, stop him at the “L….” When he cuts, nip it in the bud at the “C….” It is all done with the same mind.

Even when the enemy attacks you with some technique, allow futile ones to pass but prevent any that you feel are genuine by not allowing execution. This is foremost in combat. That said, aiming to suppress and thwart your opponent’s attempts is akin to losing the initiative. First, any techniques that you employ must be in accordance with the Way.12 Stifling the enemy’s technique at the start just as he contemplates striking, and taking control without giving him a chance to succeed, is the hallmark of a master of strategy, a level attained only through rigorous training. Examine thoroughly the principle of “stopping the start.”

(4) About “Traversing Critical Points” （一、とをこすと云事）

In the context of navigating the ocean, “traversing critical points” entails negotiating difficult currents. There may be treacherous straits as long as forty of fifty leagues to be crossed, and this is what is meant by “critical points.” Traversing problematic positions is also necessary at many junctures during a man’s life. With sea routes, you must know the hazardous places that need crossing, know the condition of your vessel and know well the lucky or unlucky omens of each day.13 Without an accompanying vessel, you must be aware of your position and ride the crosswinds or catch the tailwind. Be prepared for wind changes and to row two or three leagues to port if required. This is how one traverses perilous passages at sea. This mindset relates to overcoming problematic points in life and should be applied with due concern to the demands of the situation.

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