Miyamoto Musashi, widely regarded as Japan’s greatest swordsman, was not only an extraordinary martial artist but also a profound philosopher. His most enduring contribution to philosophy can be found in the “Dokkodo” or “The Way of Walking Alone,” a short work written a week before his death. This work consists of 21 precepts or principles that served as Musashi’s guide to both martial arts and life.
Understanding the Dokkodo
The Dokkodo is a succinct collection of principles that Miyamoto Musashi intended to convey his understanding of life and death, the nature of human beings, and the path to enlightenment. The precepts, written as Musashi neared the end of his life, encapsulate the wisdom he gleaned from decades of combat, strategy, and introspection.
Miyamoto Musashi’s 21 Principles
Below are Miyamoto Musashi’s 21 principles, along with a brief interpretation of each:
- Accept everything just the way it is. This precept encourages acceptance and mindfulness of the world as it truly is, not as we wish or fear it to be.
- Do not seek pleasure for its own sake. This teaches the avoidance of hedonism and the understanding that temporary pleasures are not the path to lasting happiness.
- Do not, under any circumstances, depend on a partial feeling. This advises against making decisions based on incomplete emotions or information.
- Think lightly of yourself and deeply of the world. This instructs us to remain humble and considerate of the bigger picture beyond our personal needs and wants.
- Be detached from desire your whole life long. This guides us to not be controlled by our desires, but to control them instead.
READ MORE: Miyamoto Musashi’s Real Sword: The Blade of a Legend - Do not regret what you have done. This principle encourages taking responsibility for our actions, learning from them, and moving forward without regret.
- Never be jealous. This teaches the avoidance of envy and the appreciation of our own journey and abilities.
- Never let yourself be saddened by a separation. This advises acceptance of the inevitability of change and loss in life.
- Resentment and complaint are appropriate neither for oneself nor others. This principle instructs us to avoid harboring resentment and to focus on understanding and empathy instead.
- Do not let yourself be guided by the feeling of lust or love. This encourages us not to let our actions be dictated by intense emotions, which can cloud our judgment.
READ MORE: Miyamoto Musashi’s Grave: The Final Resting Place of the Legendary Swordsman - In all things, have no preferences. This precept advocates open-mindedness and flexibility, helping us avoid becoming trapped by our own biases and preferences.
- Be indifferent to where you live. This teaches us that contentment comes from within, not from our external circumstances.
- Do not pursue the taste of good food. This warns against the pursuit of sensory pleasure at the expense of health or discipline.
- Do not hold on to possessions you no longer need. This encourages a minimalist lifestyle, valuing necessity over excess.
- Do not act following customary beliefs. This precept instructs us to question tradition and customary beliefs, and to form our own understanding.
- Do not collect weapons or practice with weapons beyond what is useful. This teaches pragmatism and practicality over the collection of unnecessary tools or skills.
- Do not fear death. This principle is a reminder of the impermanence of life, encouraging us to live fully and fearlessly.
- Do not seek to possess either goods or fiefs for your old age. This precept warns against the relentless pursuit of material wealth, particularly as a means of security in old age.
- Respect Buddha and the gods without counting on their help. This advises spiritual respect but emphasizes personal responsibility for our actions.
- You may abandon your own body but you must preserve your honor. This teaches the value of integrity and honor over personal survival or comfort.
- Never stray from the Way. This final precept instructs us to remain steadfast on our path, despite the challenges and distractions we might encounter.
READ MORE: Miyamoto Musashi’s Sword Style: Mastery Through Niten Ichi-ryu
Conclusion
Miyamoto Musashi’s 21 principles are not only a guide for martial artists but also a roadmap for anyone seeking a fulfilling and principled life. These precepts, rooted in humility, discipline, and deep understanding, remain as relevant today as they were in the 17th century, reminding us of the enduring wisdom of this legendary swordsman and philosopher.
