Un libro al día: Tsunetomo Yamamoto: Hagakure

Original language: japanese

Original title: Hagakure

Translation: Alejandro Pareja Rodriguez

Year of publication: 1716

Valuation: recommended for men of action

I came across this book through the good Mishima, our favorite nationalist-imperialist. in his book Spiritual lessons for young samuraia mixture of exalted patriotism and cringe, Mishima lets himself fall openly (and without allegories) with his most radical ideas (but not without their particular acuity) on the decline of Japan, the role of the emperor as a spiritual symbol of the nation, the role of the samurai, etc. Mishima is not the first nor the last with these types of ideas. In fact, many of them come from this other text reviewed here, the Hagakure.

Indeed, the world is going through a period of degeneration; Men lose their virility and look more and more like women.

Phrases like this, which fit perfectly with the type of inflammatory speeches that Mishima uses at the slightest opportunity, were the teachings of a Buddhist monk compiled at the beginning of the 18th century. Being a warrior in his younger years, Yamamoto had very strong opinions regarding behavior and reason for being of the samurai. Now, what is interesting about these Zen quasi-aphorisms? Perhaps the most striking aspect is the window that is offered to us into the samurai mentality of the time, not excessively distorted by the films, offering a vision (if perhaps clouded by the longing for their times of warrior youth) about loyalty, honor and preparation for death. Through his aphorisms, Yamamoto emphasizes the importance of living with integrity and purpose, values ​​that, although they emerged in a feudal context, are still valid today (mostly because we can find similar phrases in many self-help books).

His wisdom, nourished by the advice of others, can be compared to the roots of a large tree with thick, dense foliage. There are limits to the wisdom of the human being, a weak bush, shaken by the wind.

If we get Zen for a moment, one of the most fascinating aspects of Hagakure is its focus on impermanence and the acceptance of death as an integral part of life. This perspective was intended to make those to whom it was directed reflect on their own lives and priorities, questioning the superficiality and lack of purpose that often prevail in society (in favor, of course, of the feudal lord).

Compared to other texts from the same era, the Hagakure stands out for its direct and practical approach. While other writings may delve into theology or politics with greater complexity, Yamamoto opts for a clarity that makes his teachings accessible to a broad audience. This accessibility, however, does not diminish the richness of his reflections, but rather amplifies them by allowing more people to benefit from his wisdom, without leaving aside the precepts of Zen Buddhism, which have already become part of the culture. general.

It is very difficult to read when there is almost no one to listen.

In conclusion, Hagakure is an essential work for those interested in samurai philosophy, personal ethics, and Japanese history. You just have to be careful not to take too many red pills.