The Sword Saint. Undefeated in over 60 duels. He sought not just victory in combat, but enlightenment through the Way of the Sword.
Philosophy
By knowing things that exist, you can know that which does not exist.
Style
Niten Ichi-ryΕ«. Fighting with both the long sword and the short sword.
Focus
Do not seek pleasure for its own sake. Do not hold on to possessions.
Musashi wrote The Book of Five Rings weeks before his death, meditating in a cave. It contains the essence of his strategy, which applies as much to life and business as it does to dueling.
"You must understand that there is more than one path to the top of the mountain."
His core teaching is adaptability. He famously defeated Sasaki KojirΕ with a wooden sword carved from an oar, using his opponent's reach and the glare of the sun against him.
Defeated the entire school single-handedly. First master at age 13.
Defeated the lance monks. Mastered the timing of the spear.
The legendary duel with KojirΕ. Arrived late to unsettle his opponent.
Retires from violence to seek spiritual perfection and write his masterpiece.