A definitive treatise on the code of the samurai--revised and with a
new introduction
Upholding the samurai code both on and off the battlefield is one of the
essential tenets of bushidō, the Way of the Warrior--and
Budōshoshinshu is a definitive treatise on living in accordance with
the samurai code. When it comes to books on samurai philosophy, the
Edo-period classic Hagakure is iconic to contemporary readers, but
Budōshoshinshu, which was written during same period, was equally
influential at the time. Many scholars consider Hagakure, which was
influenced by Zen, to be the most radical and romantic of samurai texts,
while Budōshoshinshu is more measured and practical, owing to its
heavy Confucian influence. Taken in tandem, they provide a range of
insights on the role of the individual within the samurai order--both
addressing the warrior's role in times of peace and emphasizing the
importance of living selflessly.
Written by Daidoji Yūzan, a Confucian scholar who descended from a long
line of prominent warriors, Budōshoshinshu comprises 56 pithy
instructive essays for young samurai on how to live morally, with
professional integrity and a higher purpose, and to carry on the true
chivalrous tradition of bushidō. Budōshoshinshu is imbued with classic
Confucian philosophy, centered on living one's life with sincerity and
loyalty.
