The Dokkodo – 21 Rules For Life

From swordsman and philosopher, Miyamoto Musashi a code of conduct. I see many parallels with the stoic way of life. His proverbs can be applied to many things in life. This is his last known work before he succumbed to lung cancer. The word Dokkodo can be translated to the path to progress alone with self-confidence.

Miyamoto Musashi (1584-1645) also known as Shinmen Takezo, Miyamoto Bennosuke or by his Buddhist name Niten Doraku, was a famous samurai swordsman, Ronin and Zen philosopher during Japan’s feudal era in the 17th century.

He was known as an excellent and unrivaled swordsman during his day, as he fought over sixty duels without losing a single one. Not only was Musashi an excellent swordsman, he was also a writer and philosopher.

His book, The Book of Five Rings, is a book about strategy, tactics and philosophy and is still printed and read to this day. The book became a classic – not just for martial artists and those interested in Eastern philosophy, but also for politicians and businessmen looking for an competitive edge in modern times. Musashi’s philosophy is one of self reliance, inner calm, acceptance, and discipline. His work is read all over the world to help people develop mental strength and the qualities needed for a resilient and happy life.

I know it is helping me to heal.

He speaks to the idea that the more we endure, the better we become, because every action has a purpose, and when every action has a purpose, every action has a result. Always be willing to get up and go at it again and again and again, for that’s the person who has their hands raised later in life, because that was the person with dreams and goals. We are what we do repeatedly, because today it begins, tomorrow it continues and it never ends, until we reach our goals.