If you want to learn the craft of war, ponder over this book. The teacher is as a needle, the disciple is as thread. You must practice constantly.
Miyamoto MusashiRead
Aspire to be like Mt. Fuji, with such a broad and solid foundation that the strongest earthquake cannot move you, and so tall that the greatest enterprises of common men seem insignificant from your lofty perspective. With your mind as high as Mt Fuji you can see all things clearly. And you can see all the forces that shape events; not just the things happening near to you.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Strive for a strong and unwavering foundation while maintaining a broader perspective.
This quote encourages individuals to develop a solid foundation in their beliefs and values, akin to the steadfastness of Mt. Fuji. It also emphasizes the importance of having a high perspective, which allows one to understand the broader context of events and see beyond immediate challenges, thus enabling clearer vision and thoughtful action in life.
Themes
AspirationPerspectiveFoundationsStrengthClarity
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about resilience and perspective.
More from Miyamoto Musashi
All quotes →If you fail to take advantage of your enemies' collapse, they may recover.
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One must make the warrior walk his everyday walk.
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To cut and slash are two different things. Cutting, whatever form of cutting it is, is decisive, with a resolute spirit. Slashing is nothing more than touching the enemy.
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You win battles by knowing the enemy's timing, and using a timing which the enemy does not expect.
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In the void is virtue, and no evil. Wisdom has existence, principle has existence, the Way has existence, spirit is nothingness.
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