Budoshoshinshu: Essential Teachings on the Way of the Warrior

A definitive treatise on the code of the samurai–revised and with a new introduction.

When it comes to books on samurai philosphy, Hagakure is iconic to contemporary readers. But Budoshoshinshu, which was also written by a respected samurai during the Edo period, was equally influential at the time. Both works address the warrior’s role in times of peace and emphasize the importance of living selflessly. Written by Daidoji Yuzan (1639-1730), a Confucian scholoar who descended from a long line of prominent warriors, Budoshoshinshu comprises 56 pithy instructive essays for young samurai on how to live morally, with professional integrity and a higher purpose; to carry on the true chivalrous tradition of bushido. Budoshoshinshu is imbued with classic Confucian philosophy, centered on living one’s life with sincerity and loyalty.