Читать книгу Traditions. Essays on the Japanese Martial Arts and Ways онлайн

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Is the tale of the Hozoin spear’s inspiration in the reflection of lightning in a pond true? Or just a legend? It is impossible to tell. But there is no doubt at all that the most renowned school of the spear in old Japan was not founded by great samurai or noble warriors. Its creation is owed to the monks of an otherwise insignificant temple on the southeastern edge of Nara. So lasting was their reputation, in fact, that even today priests of all Buddhist sects all over Japan are sometimes referred to by the title of Osho. It is a title that has nothing to do with their religious calling. Instead, it means, “Honorable Teacher of the Spear.”

Ryomi (Reflection)

“In following the ways of the warrior, see that you yourself are right. Then you may think of defeating others.”

—Innei Kakuzenbo

Kofujita Kangejuzaemon Toshinao was a master swordsman of the feudal age in Japan, one whose entire life was dedicated to his craft. His apprenticeship in fencing began under a teacher of the Chujo ryu. While still a boy, though, Kofujita was accepted into the dojo of Itto Ittosai Kagehisa, the founder of the Itto or “One Sword” style of martial strategy.