Hagakure - The Way of the Samurai (v2) (download)

Although it stands to reason that a samurai should be mindful of the Way of the Samurai, it would seem that we are all negligent. Consequently, if someone were to ask, "What is the true meaning of the Way of the Samurai?" the person who  would be able to answer promptly is rare. This is because it has not been  established in one's mind beforehand. From this, one's unmindfulness of the Way  can be known. Negligence is an extreme thing.

The Way of the Samurai is found in death. When it comes to either/or, there is only the quick choice of death. It is not particularly difficult. Be determined and  advance. To say that dying without reaching one's aim is to die a dog's death is  the frivolous way of sophisticates. When pressed with the choice of life or death, it is not necessary to gain one's aim.

We all want to live. And in large part we make our logic according to what we like. But not having attained our aim and continuing to live is cowardice. This is a thin dangerous line. To die without gaining one's aim is a dog's death and fanaticism.  But there is no shame in this. This is the substance of the Way of the Samurai. If  by setting one's heart right every morning and evening, one is able to live as  though his body were already dead, he pains freedom in the Way. His whole life  will be without blame, and he will succeed in his calling.