The Spiritual Foundations of Aikido

摘要: Morihei Ueshiba, who founded Aikido early in this century, intended that his martial art would give form to profound spiritual truth, and lead a unification of the world's peoples. He saw not as fighting method or competitive sport but rather means becoming one with laws universal order--ki, life energy. Unfortunately, subtleties Ueshiba's teachings, veiled esoteric terminology Shinto, can be puzzling for even most advanced practitioners. They are passed down today, have never been introduced West. Gleason, fifth-degree (Godan) black belt Aikido, recognizing importance aspects discipline, researched its roots book is able offer clear explanation teachings. Unlike common "how-to" manuals on basic technique, first introduce underlying principles Aikido--the elusive concept kototama (word souls), expressed spirit, four souls, three origins, eight powers--and how they relate forms. Teaches student use accomplish goals. Reveals little-known teachings Shinto relating them Buddhism, Christianity, other