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
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the difference between decisive action and superficial efforts in confrontations.
Miyamoto Musashi highlights the distinction between effective, decisive action (cutting) and mere attempts to engage (slashing). The former involves a clear intention and determination, while the latter is aimless and lacks commitment. This reflects a broader principle applicable in various aspects of life, urging individuals to act with clarity and purpose rather than resorting to half-hearted measures.
Themes
ActionDecisivenessPurposeCommitmentStrategy
In practice
Example use cases
In a leadership workshop discussing the importance of making clear decisions.
More from Miyamoto Musashi
All quotes βIf 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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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.
Miyamoto MusashiRead
Strategy is the craft of the warrior.
Miyamoto MusashiRead
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