To master the virtue of the long sword is to govern the world and oneself, thus the long sword is the basis of strategy. The principle is strategy by means of the long sword. If he attains the virtue of the long sword, one man can beat ten men. Just as one man can beat ten, so a hundred men can beat a thousand, and a thousand men can beat ten thousand. In my strategy, one man is the same as ten thousand, so this strategy is the complete warrior's craft. The Way of the warrior does not include other Ways, such as Confucianism, Buddhism, certain traditions, artistic accomplishments and dancing. But even though these are not part of the Way, if you know the Way broadly you will see it in everything. Men must polish their particular Way.
Miyamoto Musashi
Miyamoto Musashi
Swordsman, philosopher, strategist, writer, artist, and rōnin (c. 1583–1645)

About This Quote

About Miyamoto Musashi

Miyamoto Musashi was Japanese swordsman, philosopher, strategist, writer, artist, and rōnin (c. 1583–1645). Miyamoto Musashi was a Japanese swordsman, strategist, artist and writer who became renowned through stories of his unique double-bladed swordsmanship and undefeated record in his 62 duels. Musashi is considered a kensei of Japan. Read more on Wikipedia →

More quotes by Miyamoto Musashi