Some Writings of the Founder of Aikido

By Tom Reed, Dojo Cho

In class I have talked about the pulsing and dynamic quality of our interactions in kumitachi; we alternate between yang and yin in both intention and movement (mind and body). We also continually shift the geometric quality of our movement between triangular, circular and square. These qualities are fairly obvious. What O sensei describes in the quote below is on a much more esoteric level. His understanding was based on his study of a small religion called "Omoto-kyo," which was based on Shinto but included the teachings of Jesus Christ and others. I have never met or herd of an aikido teacher who followed Omoto-kyo, not have I ever met anyone who completely understood O sensei's writings and spiritual teachings which often included aspects of mythology such as dragons. The few masters I have known all just scratched their heads and admitted that no one understood him. The one possible exception is the Shinto priest and aikido teacher, Koichi Barrish sensei, who runs Kannagara Jinja in Washington state.

Tengu Ryu is based on the principles of aiki as well as the sword techniques taught by T.K.Chiba sensei, and placed into a forum of kumitachi for us to develop with attention to our mind body and spirit. While we think of "developing" as growing, it often requires letting go, releasing or outgrowing old habits and aspects of our mind, body and spirit. This subtraction may be more important that the addition of knowledge.

I have transcribed these excerpts (below) from the book, Budo, The Teachings of the Founder of Aikido for your contemplation (the lack of capitals and odd punctuation is as printed in the book):

“Budo is a divine path established by the gods that leads to truth, goodness, and beauty; it is a spiritual path reflecting the unlimited, absolute nature of the universe and the ultimate grand design of creation.

Through the virtue acquired from devoted practice, one can perceive the principles of heaven and earth. Such techniques originate from the subtle interaction of water and fire, revealing the path of heaven and earth and the spirit of the imperial way; these applied techniques also display the marvelous functioning of kotodama, the principle that directs and harmonizes all things in the world, resulting in the unification of heaven and earth, god and humankind. Such virtue generates light and heat, forming the divine sword of spiritual harmonization between heaven, earth, and humankind; when the situation arises, armed with that sword of harmonization and acting according to the principles of heaven and earth, one can continuously slash through falshood and evil, clearing a path leading toward a beautiful and pristine world. Thus totally awakened, one can freely utilize all elements contained in heaven and earth throughout spring,summer, autumn, and winter. Reform your perception of how the universe actually looks and acts; change the martial techniques into a vehicle of purity, goodness, and beauty; and master these things. When the sword of harmonization linking heaven, earth and humankind is manifest, one is liberated, able to purify and forge the self.”

—Morihei Ueshiba, O sensei

“You yourself and all that you posess should be dedicated to majestic causes; as warriors on the martial path, it is our duty to follow the will of the gods, externally and internally, and serve the people. In budo, we guide the enemy where we please. The true purpose of the methods described herin is to teach a warrior how to receive and fill his mind with a valorous spirit—one must polish one’s ki and forge the spirit intently with your entire mind and body, temper yourself ceaslessly, and advance on and on; weld yourself to heaven and earth and unify practice and enlightenment. Realize that your mind and body must be permeated with the soul of a warrior, enlightened wisdom, and deep calm.”

—Morihei Ueshiba, O sensei

from the beginning of his manual

Excerpts from the founder's poetry:

"Cut down the enemy

lurking inside oneself"

"Deep and mysterious

the grand design

of the path of the sword--

place its heat and light

in your heart.

"Foster and polish

the warrior spirit

while serving in the world;

illuminate the Path

in accordance with the divine will."

"The penetrating brilliance of a sword

wielded by a follower of the Way

strikes at the evil enemy

lurking deep within

one's own body and soul."

"Crystal clear,

sharp and bright,

the sacred sword allows no opening for

evil to roost."

"The path of the sword

unlimited and unfathomable,

should be open to the world

and made manifest in the

bodies and souls of all people.

"Warriors!

Rally around and brandish the

Universal Sword.

Shine brightly and

reveal it to the world."

"Keep this in your heart:

sword techniques are not things.

Follow the divine--

the soul does not speak

yet its divinity shines."

"At the instant

a warrior faces

an enemy

all things serve

to make the teachings more focused."

"When learning

becomes superficial,

follow the guidance

of the sword

in both body and mind."

Morihei Ueshiba, O sensei