Yamamoto Tsunetomo

Date of Birth: June 11, 1659

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: November 30, 1719

Biography

Yamamoto Tsunetomo was a samurai of the Saga Domain in Hizen Province under his lord Nabeshima Mitsushige during the early Edo period of Japan. He is best known for his work “Hagakure” (Hidden by the Leaves), a spiritual and practical guide for a warrior, which emphasizes the way of the samurai and bushido, the samurai code of conduct. Born into a samurai family, Tsunetomo served his lord loyally until the latter’s death. After his lord’s death, Tsunetomo was prohibited from committing junshi (following one’s lord into death) due to a new law. Subsequently, he retired to a hermitage and dictated “Hagakure” to Tashiro Tsuramoto over seven years. The work contains his thoughts on the samurai way of life, loyalty, and death, making it a crucial text in understanding samurai philosophy.

5 Interesting Facts about Yamamoto Tsunetomo

1. Yamamoto Tsunetomo never actually saw combat during his lifetime, despite being a samurai.

2. “Hagakure” was not widely known until the 20th century when it was rediscovered and popularized.

3. Tsunetomo’s work significantly influenced the bushido code and has been referenced in various modern Japanese cultural contexts.

4. He served his lord Nabeshima Mitsushige for 30 years before retiring.

5. Tsunetomo was a devout Buddhist, and his spiritual beliefs heavily influenced his philosophy and writings.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Yamamoto Tsunetomo

1. “The way of the samurai is found in death.”

2. “Even if a man has no natural ability, he can be a warrior by sticking assiduously to both practice and discipline.”

3. “Matters of small concern should be treated seriously.”

4. “There is nothing outside of yourself that can ever enable you to get better, stronger, richer, quicker, or smarter. Everything is within. Everything exists. Seek nothing outside of yourself.”

5. “The ultimate aim of martial arts is not having to use them.”