At last, a clear and insightful look at the system of beliefs that is the basis for the practice of Aikido. The Philosophy of Aikido is an invaluable guide for practitioners-whether beginning or advanced-wishing to know more about the context in which Aikido was developed and Aikido's implications for the world today.
Some of the ideas discussed are:
- •the relation of Aikido to such Asian traditions as Shinto, Shingon Buddhism, Omotokyo esotericism, Taoist mysticism, and Tantra
•points of correspondence between Aikido and Western philosophical and religious systems-Greek philosophy, Christianity, Kabbalah, alchemy, and modern scientific theories
•links between Aikido and art
•ways that Aikido thought can be used to advance the causes of such urgent issues as health and healing, conflict resolution and environmental responsibilityThe Philosophy of Aikido will be of vital interest to all those who are drawn to a dynamic philosophy centered on harmony, peace, and spiritual strength. The book includes 70 black-and-white illustrations of woodblock prints, calligraphy, and photographs from the author's extensive collection.
John Stevens lived in Japan for thirty-five years, where he was a professor of Buddhist studies at Tohoku Fukushi University in Sendai. Stevens is a widely respected translator, an ordained Buddhist priest, a curator of several major exhibitions of Zen art, and an aikido instructor. He has authored more than thirty books and is one of the foremost Western experts on aikido, holding a ranking of 7th dan Aikikai. Stevens has also studied calligraphy for decades, authoring the classic Sacred Calligraphy of the East. Other John Stevens titles that are likely to be of interest include Extraordinary Zen Masters and The Marathon Monks of Mount Hiei.