The Book of Fire – 3 Ways

Musashi utilizes the Book of Fire to delve deeper into the concepts of timing and rhythm through various methods.

1. Ken no Sen
2. Tai No Sen
3. Tai Tai No Sen

Ken No Sen

This is a blitzkrieg, a lightning war. Musashi emphasizes faster-than-normal footwork if this method is employed. The faster footwork breaks your previously observed rhythm.  The goal is to disrupt the enemy’s timing and, in doing so, expose their weakness and strike them down. Regarding the spirit of this movement, Musashi cautions against remaining reserved. The fire comes from the movement, the spirit remains in control.  If put into broad martial arts terms, this is karate.

Tai No Sen

Fake weakness and move away, with the knowledge that the moment the enemy relaxes, you are striking. The fake weakness and the strike happen in sequence, but quickly. Again, in broad martial arts terms, this is Drunken Master Kung-fu

Tai Tai No Sen

Can best be described as blending in with the enemy movement. Light skipping foot movement is emphasized. Think Aikido, or Fencing

These explanations are incomplete in that the techniques are ineffable. Musashi also points to this fact in his writing.

Regardless of what method is chosen, the goal is to strike down the enemy.

You may enjoy this past posting: https://www.martialjournal.com/the-ground-seeing/

You can reach Kris Wilder here: https://linktr.ee/KrisWilder

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Kris Wilder

Kris Wilder is a martial artist, author, and life coach. He holds multiple black belts in various martial arts disciplines, including Goju-Ryu Karate, Taekwondo, and Judo. Kris is known for his deep understanding of martial arts and his ability to connect with students on a personal level.
He has authored several books on martial arts and self-defense, such as "The Way of Kata" and "The Little Black Book of Violence". Kris also runs the Wilder Karate Academy, where he teaches classes and conducts seminars.

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