The samurai and the dao
SAmurai Books: Legend
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Wisdom, removed from its depth
Is no longer alive…
The greatest Dao philosophers were true sages even though their ideas might seem mystical or controversial. As such, a wrong interpretation of their ideas can be extremely harmful. For instance, the Dao does not promote an inactive existence like that of the aforementioned old man fishing for frogs. The Dao states that by becoming detached from all vices, temptations and ambitions of society one will come to posses simple, honest and natural morals that are in accord with the Dao, the Way and the Universe. Such a mind is pure, and its perception of reality is untainted. But one’s mind must be highly developed to grasp Dao philosophy.
However paradoxical it may seem, Confucius’ system of stern moral standards can help us understand Dao philosophy. The samurai combined a deep understanding of natural morals characteristic of the Dao with a pedantic, Confucian perspective. The truth is that the more disciplined a person is, the less he needs it. Accordingly, the strict rules of Confucius evolve into a harmonious Dao state of mind without contradiction because within higher planes of consciousness rules and morals are not necessary. Once that inner guidance controls his behavior, he will hear the voice of Dao his entire life.
Conscious living, governed by Dao, creates harmony, beauty and force – the three components that make a true warrior’s life complete. As the sages used to say,
Wisdom is the divine eye of mind, seeing beyond the veil of scheming and doubts.
There’s no use speculating about true understanding; it must be felt.
Eyes cannot see what the heart can.
An opinion cannot be true or false; it can only help in life or not; an opinion is a temporary thing that loses its significance over time. So rise beyond opinions and look for eternal wisdom.
Adhering to rules is what freedom is based on; that is why most spiritual teachings encourage disciples to strictly follow the rules in the most basic areas of their life before their souls can rise towards the perfect freedom of divine existence.
Those teachings that allow freedom are either aimed at those who are strong in spirit and already free or those who have obtained freedom in their past incarnations.
If you, the one who does great deeds with great consequences, are able to realize that you’re doing nothing, know that God has lifted the veil from your eyes.
Sri Aurobindo
The Sword is clean and light.
Everybody sees their own reflection in it.
Everybody can spot the stars
On the hamon waves…
A. Berg
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This the chapter "The Samurai and the Dao" from Samurai. Legend by A. R. Berg
