John Stevens (1) (1947–)

Kodokan Judo, one of the most well-known martial arts in the world today, was originated by Jigoro Kano (1860-1938), a martial artist and career educator who developed the art after studying several types of jujutsu, sumo, and Western wrestling. Openness and refinement were hallmarks of his personal and professional style, and he relentlessly searched for the best way to practice, teach, and perform techniques.

This biography shows how Kano saw judo as a vehicle not just for self-defense, but for physical, spiritual,and moral development as well. His teachings clearly emphasize his ideal of judo as a way of self-cultivation that leads to physical health,ethical behavior, and, ultimately, a better society. Kano was a tireless activist who promoted the practical application of judo's principles in all realms of life-in one's personal behavior, for education, in work, for economic benefit, and in both the local and international political arenas.

Kano's students were a colorful, sometimes notorious bunch,and his book reveals how several went on to become famous-or infamous-in their own right. They include a prime minister of Japan, the leader of the Communist party in China, a famous novelist, a spy, high-level military leaders, and a media mogul, among many others.

John Steven's lived n Japan for thirty-five years. He was professor of Buddhist studies and Aikido instructor at Tohoku Fukushi University in Sendai. Previously, he has written on the life and teachings of the Zen swordsman Tesshu Yamaoka; the founder of aikido, Morihei Ueshiba; the hero of Zen and the Art of Archery, Kenzo Awa; and the Buddhist nun-martial artist Rengetsu Otagaki.

Contents

Preface
1 The public career of Jigoro Kano
2 Kano, the man himself
3 The challenge of creating Kodokan Judo
4 Kano and his students
5 The teachings of Jigoro Kano
Resources… (mer)

from dust jacket

At last, a clear and insightful look at the system of beliefs that is the basis for the practice of Aikido. The Philosophy of Aikido is an invaluable guide for practitioners-whether beginning or advanced-wishing to know more about the context in which Aikido was developed and Aikido's implications for the world today.

Intended as a companion volume to Kisshomaru Ueshiba's classic The Spirit of Aikido, the book is authored by John Stevens, the foremost non-Japanese expert in the field. It is written from an international perspective that considers how Aikido is related to the emerging global culture.

Some of the ideas discussed are:

-the relation of Aikido to such Asian traditions as Shinto, Shingon Buddhism, Omoto-kyo esotericism, Taoist mysticism and Tantra

-points of correspondence between Aikido and western philosophical and religious systems-Greek philosophy, Christianity, Kabbalah, alchemy and modern scientific theories

-links between Aikido and art

-ways that Aikido thinking can be used to advance the caues of such urgent issues as health and healing, conflict resolution and environmental responsibility

The Philosophy of Aikido will be of vital interest to all those who are drawn to a dynavic philosophy centered on harmony, peace and spiritual strength. The book includes 70 black-and-white illustrations of woodblock prints, calligraphy and photographs from the author's extensive collection.

John Stevens is the foremost western expert on Aikido. A professor of Buddhist studies and Aikido instructor at Tohoku Fukushi University in Sendai, Japan, he is the author of more than thirty books on Aikido, Buddhism, Zen and Asian culture. Previous works on Aikido include The Essence of Aikido, The Secrets of Aikido and Aikido: The Way of Harmony.

Contents

Foreword by Moriteru Ueshiba
Preface
Part I Theory
1 Essential Principles
2 Aikido, Nature, and Health
3 Aikido as Tantra
4 Aikido and Art
5 Aikido and Global Society
Part II Practice
Suggested Reading
Photo Credits… (mer)

(from dust jacket)

Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969) was a visionary whose quest for the true meaning of warriorship led to the creation of the martial art called Aikido, 'The Art of Peace.' Morhei is considered one of the greatest martial artist in history. His ability to disarm any attacker, throw a dozen men simultaneously, and down and pin opponents without even touching them has accorded his life legendary status. Invincible Warrior presents the real story behind Morihei's achievement, illuminating the man and his teachings. The author describes the people, events, and ideas that influenced Morihei's lifelong spiritual quest and his extraordinary career as a martial artist and teacher. The book includes over two hundred photographs documenting Morihei's life as well as showing the master in action demonstrating the physical techniques of Aikido. Invincible Warrior includes a revised and expanded version of material previously published in Abundant Peace: Morihei Ueshiba, the Biography of the Founder of Aikido, also by John Stevens, and completely new pictorial sections that further document Morihei's amazing career.

John Stevens is a Professor of Buddhist Studies and Aikido instructor at Tohoku Fukushi University in Sendai, Japan. He is authokr or translator of over twenty books on Buddhism, Zen, Aikido, and Asian culture.

Contents

Preface, Acknowledgements
The Life and Times of Morihei Ueshiba
Morihei Ueshiba and the Creation of Aikido
The Marvelous Techniques of Morihei Ueshiba
Bibliography, Credits… (mer)