📚 [Zen in the Art of Archery (Eugen Herrigel)] An Intellectual Adventure Traveling Through Books | Heart-Resonating Book Review Vol. 2

📚 An Intellectual Adventure Traveling Through Books | Heart-Resonating Book Review Vol. 2 "Zen in the Art of Archery (Eugen Herrigel)"

🏹 Exploring the Spirit Beyond Martial Arts——"Zen in the Art of Archery"

🎯 "Drawing the bow was not merely a technique, but a way of life——"

If you want to deeply understand "what is martial arts?", you absolutely must read this book!✨

"Zen in the Art of Archery" is a record of the German philosopher Eugen Herrigel's experience of Zen philosophy through Kyudo (Japanese archery).

The author, who possesses a Western "goal-oriented" mindset, struggles with the Japanese concept of "mushin" (no-mind), yet eventually reaches a deep enlightenment—the process is depicted like a journey.🚶‍♂️

"Learning martial arts is knowing yourself"

Reading this book will lead you to confront such essential questions.💡

📖 Basic Book Information

📗 Title: "Zen in the Art of Archery"
✍️ Author: Eugen Herrigel
📅 First Edition: 1948 (Japanese translation: 1956)
📚 Genre: Philosophy / Martial Arts / Zen
📄 Page Count: Around 120 pages (varies by edition)
🎯 Recommended Readers:

• People interested in martial arts and Zen

• People interested in "no-mind" and "self-discipline"

• People who want to deepen their philosophical thinking

🎯 The Core of the Book: "Do Not Aim at the Target"

1️⃣ Spiritual Training, Not Technique

At first, Herrigel thought of Kyudo as a "technique for hitting the target."🏹

However, his master, Kenzo Awa, taught something completely different.

✨ "You must not aim at the target"
✨ "The moment you release the arrow, it is you yourself who is being released"

The author was deeply shocked by these words.⚡️

2️⃣ The Difficulty of Being "Mushin" (No-Mind)

After years of training, Herrigel finally begins to understand his master's teachings. 😌

✅ Let go of unnecessary tension
✅ Release the arrow without conscious thought
✅ Not "I release it," but "it is released"

By reaching this state, the arrow began to hit the target naturally. 🎯

"Acting without thinking"—that was true Kyudo.

3️⃣ From Martial Arts to Life

The teachings in this book relate not only to martial arts but also deeply to our daily lives.

💼 Work → If you are too conscious of "trying to get results," things often go wrong
⚽️ Sports → If you are impatient to "win," you cannot perform at your true potential
💬 Relationships → If you think about "trying to look good," you become unnatural

In other words, the "state of no-mind" in Kyudo applies to our very way of living. 🌱

🏹 Insights and Lessons After Reading

The author was a member of the Kyudo club when in university.

Although I hadn't really participated in club activities until high school, I became deeply absorbed in Kyudo, which I started as a complete beginner.

While there were many who had experience since high school, I went to the dojo almost every day, even between classes and on holidays, wanting to catch up even a little. I was clumsy, but I managed to earn my first-dan rank.

Also, at that time, there was a regular club meeting called "Hyakushakai" (Hundred-Shot Meeting) where we would shoot arrows through the night at the dojo, but I even tried doing a 10-times-greater, solo "Senshakai" (Thousand-Shot Meeting)" over 24 hours. 🏹

If you don't touch the bow for a day, it takes three days to regain the feel—.

The exhilaration and freshness of wearing tabi socks and a hakama, and facing the target in the dojo, was an experience that could not be replaced by anything else. ✨

Kyudo is essentially a self-cultivation, not a competition with others. Even so, at tournaments and the like, it is impossible for a young person of 20 or so to completely erase the desire to hit more targets than the opponent and win.

Naturally, there are waves of good and bad form.

It is not just physical condition, but also one's state of mind that affects the shot.

Even if you intend to draw the same way, a tiny difference—a deviation of just one millimeter—causes the released arrow to miss the 15.5 ken: 28 meters away target, which is 1 shaku 2 sun: 36 centimeters in size, and it is not uncommon for it to be heartlessly kicked by the edge of the target and pierce the soil of the azuchi (earthen mound).

If you don't hit the target, you get frustrated; if you get frustrated, you don't hit the target... ⚡️

My seniors often warned me when they could see my emotions showing. ⚡️

This book was introduced to me by one of those seniors back then. ✍️

At the time, there was no Amazon, and since many years had passed since the first edition, it wasn't in bookstores, and I couldn't find it even after visiting second-hand bookstores.

After decades of putting down the bow, I remember finally getting my hands on it at a second-hand bookstore I happened to stop by while on a business trip to Tokyo. 💼

Reading this "Zen in the Art of Archery," what left the deepest impression on me were the following words spoken by Herrigel's teacher, Kenzo Awa. 💭

✨ "You must not think of the target, or of hitting it, or of anything else. Just draw the bow and wait until the arrow is released. Let everything else take care of itself." ✨

These words resonated deeply within me. 🔔

Even in daily life, instead of being caught up in distracting thoughts and seeking only "results,"

"simply immerse yourself in the moment"

This book teaches us the importance of that. 💡

📚 Related Books

For those who became interested after reading "Zen in the Art of Archery," I also recommend the following books! ✨

🔹 "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance" by Robert M. Pirsig
A masterpiece that explores the "way of the mind" through philosophical inquiry and travel.

🔹 "Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience" by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
Explains what the "flow state" is, where one achieves peak performance.

🔹 "Bushido: The Soul of Japan" by Inazo Nitobe
A classic that introduced the Japanese spirit of Bushido to the world.

✨ Summary: What this book teaches us

"Zen in the Art of Archery" is not just a technical manual for Kyudo. 📖

🎯 "Focus on the process, not the result"
🧘 "The difficulty and importance of being selfless"
⚔️ "A philosophy of life that transcends martial arts"

It is a book from which you can gain these lessons! 📕

✅ Those interested in martial arts
✅ Those who want to re-examine their state of mind
✅ Those who want to experience the state of "mushin" (no-mind)

This is a book I highly recommend to such people.📖✨

📖 Read this book now and set your mind free! 🚀

Bonus

I asked ChatGPT about Kyudo.

Q1 Please explain Kyudo.

A1 What is Kyudo?

Kyudo (Japanese archery) is one of Japan's traditional martial arts, aimed at the cultivation of both the technique of shooting at a target with a bow and the spirit. Unlike Kendo or Judo, there is no direct combat; it is a discipline that pursues the perfection of individual technique and spirit.

Modern Kyudo originated from "Kyujutsu" (archery techniques), which samurai used on the battlefield. It developed through the Sengoku period and into the Edo period as a means of spiritual training for samurai. Since the Meiji era, its aspect as a martial art has been emphasized, and today it is enjoyed worldwide as a sport that values etiquette.

Characteristics of Kyudo

Kyudo has the following characteristics:

1. Characteristics of the bow and arrow

• Bow: The Japanese bow is called a "Yumi" (or Wakyū), and it is characterized by its large size, approximately 2.2 meters in length. Unlike Western bows, the grip is located in the lower part of the bow rather than the center, which requires a unique shooting method.

• Arrow: Arrows made of bamboo or carbon are used. Traditionally, bird feathers are used for the fletching.

2. Shooting method and shooting form

In Kyudo, the beauty of the movement when releasing the arrow and the correct form are also highly valued. The shooting method in Kyudo consists of basic movements called "Hassetsu" (eight stages), which are performed in the following order:

1. Ashibumi - Placing the feet at the appropriate width

2. Dozukuri - Establishing the correct posture

3. Yugamae - Preparing the bow

4. Uchiokoshi - Raising the bow

5. Hikiwake (Drawing) - Preparing to draw the bow and release the arrow

6. Kai (Full Draw) - Holding steady at the maximum draw

7. Hanare (Release) - Releasing the arrow

8. Zanshin (Remaining Mind) - Maintaining the lingering effect after releasing the arrow

Performing this sequence of movements accurately is important, and emphasis is placed not only on hitting the target but also on mental concentration and etiquette.

3. Target and Distance

• In general competitions, a target with a diameter of 28 meters away is placed with a diameter of 36 centimeters.

• Kinteki (Near Target): A common shooting method aiming at a target 28 meters away.

• Enteki (Far Target): A competition format aiming at a target approximately 60 meters away.

The Spirit of Kyudo

Kyudo is not just a sport, but a martial art with a very strong aspect of mental discipline. In particular, the following spiritual qualities are required.

1. Etiquette

In Kyudo, etiquette is cherished. Entering and leaving the shooting range, handling equipment, and showing respect for others are emphasized.

2. Harmony of Mind, Technique, and Body

In Kyudo, it is considered important to balance the 'Mind (spirit), Technique (skill), and Body (physical).' It is crucial to calm the mind and face the target with a composed heart.

3. Shooting is Life

It is said that 'shooting is a mirror of life,' and one's daily posture and way of thinking are reflected in the shot. Through Kyudo, one is expected to polish their own spirit and character.

Kyudo Competitions and Ranks

1. Competitions

In Kyudo competitions, not only accuracy (hit rate) but also the beauty and stability of the shooting form are evaluated. There are individual and team matches, and national and international tournaments are also held.

2. Dan-Kyu Grading System

Kyudo has a Dan-Kyu grading system that indicates proficiency. Beginners start at the "Kyu" level, and as they improve, they advance through "Shodan" (first degree), "Nidan" (second degree), "Sandan" (third degree), and so on. At higher Dan levels, not only technique but also spirituality is evaluated.

The Appeal of Kyudo

1. Training the Mind: Improves concentration and provides mental discipline that can be applied to daily life.

2. Can be continued regardless of age or gender: A martial art that does not depend on physical strength and can be practiced for a lifetime.

3. Beauty of movement: You can learn beautiful movements as part of traditional Japanese culture.

4. Global reach: In recent years, the popularity of Kyudo has increased overseas, and many foreigners are learning it.

Summary

Kyudo is a traditional Japanese martial art that refines both spirit and technique. It is characterized not merely by the goal of hitting the target, but by the emphasis on etiquette, concentration, and mental unification. It is easy for beginners to learn and can be continued at any age, so if you are interested, you should definitely give it a try!

Q2 Please tell me more about the 'Shaho Hassetsu' (eight stages of shooting).

A2 What is the Shaho Hassetsu?

The Shaho Hassetsu is the division of the basic shooting movements in Kyudo into eight stages. This systematizes the entire flow from drawing the bow to releasing the arrow, and it serves as the foundation not only for mastering technique but also for mental stability and etiquette.

The Shaho Hassetsu consists of the following eight movements.

1. Ashibumi (Foot placement)

――The preparatory stage before drawing the bow, creating a stable posture

• Spread your feet about shoulder-width apart and position them facing the target direction.

• Move your right foot first, then place your left foot, being conscious of the stability of your hips.

• Point: By balancing the left and right sides equally, you enable a stable shot.

2. Dozukuri (Forming the body)

――Correcting the posture of the upper body and aligning the balance of the entire body

• Straighten your back and stabilize the position of your head.

• Relax your shoulders and keep the axis of your entire body straight.

• Point: It is important to be conscious of your body and align your center.

3. Yugamae (Preparing the Bow)

-- The action of holding the bow and nocking the arrow

• Hold the bow with your left hand, pull the string with your right hand, and nock the arrow (set the arrow onto the string).

• Firmly hold the string with the fingers of your right hand and set the arrow in the correct position.

• Point: Pay attention to how you use your fingers and aim for smooth movement.

4. Uchiokoshi (Raising the Bow)

-- The action of raising the bow

• Slowly raise the bow until it is about at the height of your face.

• At this time, perform the movement naturally without putting unnecessary force into your arms or shoulders.

• Point: Relax your shoulders and maintain a relaxed state.

5. Hikiwake (Drawing the Bow)

-- The action of drawing the bow and preparing to release the arrow

• While drawing the bow evenly to the left and right, create a posture to aim the arrow.

• Draw until the arrow reaches the side of your face, pulling with the image of bringing your shoulder blades together.

• Point: Do not apply force suddenly; draw evenly and slowly.

6. Kai (The Full Draw)

-- Remaining still in the state of having drawn the bow to its maximum

• Stop when the arrow reaches the mouth or cheek area.

• Maintain balance throughout the entire body and calm the mind.

• Point: Regulate breathing and focus the mind.

7. Hanare (Release)

-- The moment of releasing the arrow

• The arrow is launched by naturally releasing the bowstring from the fingers.

• The right hand flows backward, while the left hand firmly points toward the target.

• Point: Have a natural sensation of the hand 'opening' rather than 'releasing'.

8. Zanshin (Remaining Mind)

-- Maintaining the posture after releasing the arrow and feeling the lingering effect

• Maintain the posture for a while even after the arrow hits the target.

• Be conscious of the body's axis and ensure there is no disturbance.

• Point: Maintain the awareness that 'the shot continues even after the arrow is released'.

Significance of the Eight Stages of Shooting

• It is not merely a sequence of movements, but a flow to unify 'mind, technique, and body'.

• It emphasizes etiquette and concentration, with a strong aspect of spiritual cultivation in addition to technique.

• By performing each movement carefully, a beautiful shot is born.

Summary

The Eight Stages of Shooting are the foundation of Kyudo and serve as the basics for learning the importance of correct posture, breathing, and mental unification. By correctly performing this sequence, you can not only hit the target but also train your mind and understand the depth of Kyudo.

Q3 What is the 'Jumonji' (cross) in Kyudo?

A3 What is the "Jumonji" (cross shape) in Kyudo?

In Kyudo, the "Jumonji" (cross shape) is an important concept for ensuring the stability of the shooting form, referring to the alignment of various parts of the body and the bow to form a "ten" (cross/right angle) shape. This increases the stability of the shot, improving accuracy and the beauty of the shooting form.

Basic Composition of the Jumonji

In Kyudo, the following three major "Jumonji" are considered important.

1. Vertical Jumonji

• Relationship between the bow and the arrow

  • Hold the bow and arrow so they form a right angle.

  • The arrow is set to pass through the center of the bow and fly in a straight line.

2. Horizontal Jumonji

• Relationship between the shoulders and the bow

  • The line of both shoulders and the bow extend in a straight line parallel to the ground.

  • It is important that the left and right shoulders are level and balanced.

3. Three-Dimensional Jumonji (Solid Cross Shape)

• Relationship between the body's central axis, the bow, and the arrow

  • The body's median line (the axis passing through the center of the body) and the arrangement of the bow and arrow form a three-dimensional cross.

  • Maintain three-dimensional balance while being conscious of the "vertical" and "horizontal" Jumonji.

Benefits of being conscious of the Jumonji

1. Stability of shooting form

   • By correcting your posture and eliminating wasted effort, you can achieve a stable shot.

2. Improvement in accuracy

   • Proper form stabilizes the arrow's trajectory, leading to accurate shots.

3. Elimination of wasted effort

   • By reducing tension and unnecessary movements, you can draw the bow naturally.

4. Beautiful shooting form

   • The beauty of the form increases, and mental concentration is also enhanced.

Practicing the eight stages of shooting with an awareness of the cross (jumonji)

1. Ashibumi (Footing)

• Open both feet parallel, being aware of the 'horizontal cross' level with the ground.

2. Dozukuri (Body formation)

• Straighten your back and align your body's axis to create a 'vertical cross'.

3. Yugamae (Readying the bow)

• Confirm the relationship between the bow and arrow, and form the correct 'Jumonji' (cross).

4. Uchiokoshi (Raising the bow)

• When raising the bow, be conscious of the positional relationship between the bow and shoulders to maintain the 'horizontal cross'.

5. Hikiwake (Drawing the bow)

• When drawing, be conscious of the central axis of the bow and body, and maintain the 'three-dimensional cross'.

6. Kai (Full draw)

• In the state of maximum draw, be conscious of the bow and body aligning into a cross.

7. Hanare (Release)

• Without collapsing the cross, let the arrow fly in a straight line.

8. Zanshin (Remaining mind/posture)

• Maintain the posture while keeping the consciousness of the cross.

Summary

The Jumonji is an essential foundational concept in Kyudo for achieving correct shooting form and stable shots. By constantly being conscious of the relationship between the bow and arrow, the shoulders and bow, and the central axis of the body and the arrow, it leads to beautiful shooting form and improved accuracy.

Q4 What is Uro no Hanare?

A4 What is Uro no Hanare (Raindrop Release)?

'Uro no Hanare' (Raindrop Release) is a term that describes the ideal state of 'Hanare' (the action of releasing the arrow) in Kyudo.

This expression is likened to the way a raindrop naturally falls from a leaf, and it means that a natural and pure release without applying forced power is the ideal.

Characteristics of Uro no Hanare

1. No unnecessary tension

   • At the moment of releasing the arrow, there is no excess force in the fingers or arms.

   • The arrow is released in a natural flow.

2. Smooth and beautiful movement

   • The action of releasing the string is not awkward, but smooth and graceful.

   • It is a natural movement, like a raindrop gathered at the tip of a leaf falling according to gravity.

3. Harmony of mind and technique

   • There is mental composure, with no impatience or tension regarding the release of the arrow.

   • The tranquility of the mind is reflected in the shot.

Key points for achieving a release like a falling raindrop

1. The correct form for drawing the bow

• Draw the bow evenly to the left and right while being conscious of the cross shape.

• Maintain a relaxed state without putting unnecessary force into the shoulders or arms.

2. Stability of the 'Kai' (full draw)

• Remain perfectly still while the bow is drawn to its maximum extent.

• Regulate your breathing without rushing until you are ready for the arrow to be released.

3. Natural opening of the fingers

• Do not grip the string tightly with your fingers; support it appropriately.

• Instead of the conscious intent to 'release,' aim for it to 'open naturally.'

4. Unification of breath and consciousness

• Do not hold your breath at the moment of release; perform it while exhaling in a natural flow.

• Calm your mind and prevent unconscious tension.

The Importance of the 'Raindrop Release'

• Creating a beautiful shooting form
  Leads to ideal Kyudo movements free from unnatural motion or strain.

• Improving accuracy
  A natural, relaxed release stabilizes the arrow's trajectory, allowing it to fly straight.

• Mental discipline
  By releasing the arrow with a calm, unhurried mind, one cultivates mental focus.

Summary

The 'Raindrop Release' is the ideal form in Kyudo, representing a natural and beautiful release without applying forced effort. Just as a raindrop gathered at the tip of a leaf falls quietly according to gravity, the release in Kyudo should also occur naturally. By maintaining this awareness, more graceful and highly accurate shooting becomes possible.