Books

HANSHI KAUFMAN ON THE ESSENCE OF THE FIVE RINGS

THE BOOK OF EARTH Before going into the true essence of the Book of Five Rings, Gorin no Sho, I will preface this paper with the following statement that I have personally come to understand after many years of devotion to my particular martialist form, Hebi-ryu budo, The School of the Serpent. The more you […]

THE ART OF WAR – BOOK 2: PART 4

Concerning the warriors of the enemy that have not fallen before you: treat them with respect, especially if they have fought with all of their hearts. They can be made into allies and will serve you with great zeal if they learn respect for you. It does not matter that they have fallen. Perhaps their […]

THE ART OF WAR – BOOK 2: PART 3

PREPARATIONS FOR WAR – BOOK 3 PART 3 Taking what he needs from local peasants and merchants to replenish his troops, the warlord does not involve himself with commerce when he is in the midst of battle. He makes sure to leave some for the local people, knowing there is always the possibility that he […]

THE ART OF WAR – BOOK 2: PART 2

PREPARATIONS FOR WAR – BOOK 2 PART 2 When mobility of troops is difficult and the enemy is more familiar with the territory, the edge in the battle will go to the enemy. Attacks must be delivered with blinding speed and proper plans must be well thought out. If they are not, the enemy will […]

THE ART OF WAR – BOOK 2: PART 1

BOOK 2 – PREPARATIONS FOR WAR PART 1 Supplies are essential for the proper management of a conflict and its resolution. Without supplies there is nothing to sustain the army except bare hands and berries. Oversupply presents problems of a different nature. Though it may appear better to be oversupplied, consider the hindrance in mobility […]

THE ART OF WAR – BOOK 1: PART 5

BOOK 1 – CONSIDERATIONS AND ESTIMATIONS FOR WAR PART 5 Destroy your enemy in any way you can, but never forget that he may have resources as well and may be prepared for your attack. Consider him a fool for self-aggrandizement if it is appropriate, but do not become vain in your estimation of him […]

THE ART OF WAR – BOOK 1: PART 4

BOOK 1 – CONSIDERATIONS AND ESTIMATIONS FOR WAR PART 4 If warriors under your command follow your instructions you will have great success. Reward them well and reward them equally, but not too often. If you feel otherwise, for whatever reason, or they give you cause to suspect that their true natures are not sympathetic […]

THE ART OF WAR – BOOK 1: PART 3

BOOK 1 – CONSIDERATIONS AND ESTIMATIONS FOR WAR PART 3 The successful warlord does not put someone in charge of the warehouse if that person only cares about negotiating. Everyone should be content with their given tasks and in that manner they will perform admirably. You must praise and admonish your men with the same […]

THE ART OF WAR – BOOK 1: PART 2

BOOK 1 – CONSIDERATIONS AND ESTIMATIONS FOR WAR PART 2 The wrong weapons placed in the hands of untrained soldiers will result in defeat because of a lack of consideration given the matter by the leader. Generally, men know their own weapons and are comfortable with them. Choose your men with great care and consideration. […]

THE ART OF WAR – BOOK 1: PART 1

BOOK 1 – CONSIDERATIONS AND ESTIMATIONS FOR WAR PART 1 Conflict is essential to the development and growth of man and society. It leads either to the construction or destruction of an entire group or state. As a leader of men, you should understand this concept without question. If you do not understand the need […]

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF SUCCESS

To celebrate 25 years of successful sales of my interpretation of Sun Tzu’s Art of War, Tuttle Publishing will be releasing a hard cover version of the book on November 30, 2021. Preorders are now being taken at Amazon.com The Art of War by Sun Tzu is the best known book on military strategy ever […]

THE LIVING TAO

STANZA 1 The true way is unknown and so is the untrue way There are no names to understand It Creation does not care that It is the source of creation Emanating as some thing It is not without nourishment Mysteries are revealed Become Its way Attain Its perfection Do not use words to describe […]