Author(s): John Stevens

Philosophy

Here are the biography and teachings of Awa Kenzo (1880 - 1939), the legendary Zen and kyudo (archery) master who gained worldwide renown after the publication of Eugen Herrigel's classic Zen in the Art of Archery. Kenzo lived and taught at a pivotal time in Japan's history, when martial arts were practiced primarily for self-cultivation. ZEN BOW, ZEN ARROW presents his wise and penetrating instructions for practice (and life) - including aphorisms, poetry, instructional lists, and calligraphy - all infused with the spirit of Zen. Kenzo uses the metaphor of the bow and arrow to challenge the practitioner to look deeply into his or her own true nature.Respected author, aikido teacher, Zen practitioner, and Zen calligraphy expert John Stevens presents Kenzo's teachings in an accessible way for contemporary readers. He also presents several classic stories about archery in the East as well as rare photographs of the master.