Question: It is said that Miyamoto Musashi achieved a “unity of sword and zen,” and that he did not have to kill an opponent or protect himself, that he had freedom from all ideas with perfect serenity. Are there such effects?

Meishu-Sama: Yes, there are, but they differ from “freedom from all ideas with perfect serenity.” Human beings cannot reach such a state. There were no other words to describe such effects so they used these words. In any case, his soul reached a very high level. Musashi was greatly helped by the priest Takuan Soho. He was continually taught by Takuan. But Musashi was born with his soul already on a very high level. That’s why he could paint such wonderful paintings. One excels in all endeavors. Even with the sword, he could attain such distinction. Such a principle works in all matters.

Record of Instructions, Issue 24

September 15, 1953