The Philosophy of Aikido

Description

At last, a clear and insightful look at the system of beliefs that may be the basis for the practice of Aikido. The Philosophy of Aikido is a useful guide for practitioners-whether beginning or advanced-wishing to know more about the context in which Aikido used to be developed and Aikido’s implications for the world today.

Some of the ideas discussed are:

•the relation of Aikido to such Asian traditions as Shinto, Shingon Buddhism, Omotokyo esotericism, Taoist mysticism, and Tantra

•points of correspondence between Aikido and Western philosophical and non secular systems-Greek philosophy, Christianity, Kabbalah, alchemy, and up to date scientific theories

•links between Aikido and art

•ways that Aikido thought can be utilized to advance the causes of such urgent issues as health and healing, conflict resolution and environmental responsibility

The Philosophy of Aikido will be of vital interest to all people who find themselves drawn to a dynamic philosophy centered on harmony, peace, and religious strength. The book includes 70 black-and-white illustrations of woodblock prints, calligraphy, and photographs from the creator’s extensive collection.

John Stevens lived in Japan for thirty-five years, where he used to be a professor of Buddhist studies at Tohoku Fukushi University in Sendai. Stevens is a widely respected translator, an ordained Buddhist priest, a curator of several major exhibitions of Zen art, and an aikido instructor. He has authored more than thirty books and is likely one of the foremost Western experts on aikido, holding a ranking of 7th dan Aikikai. Stevens has also studied calligraphy for decades, authoring the classic Sacred Calligraphy of the East. Other John Stevens titles that are likely to be of interest include Extraordinary Zen Masters and The Marathon Monks of Mount Hiei.