The Way of the warrior (bushido) is to be found in dying.

If one is faced with two options of life or death, simply settle for death. It is not an especially difficult choice; just go forth and meet it confidently.

To declare that dying without aiming for the right purpose is nothing more than a “dog’s death” is the timid and shallow way of Kamigata warriors.

Whenever faced with the choice of life and death, there is no need to try and achieve one’s aims.

Human beings have a preference for life. As such, it is a natural tendency to apply logic to justify one’s proclivity to stay alive.

If you miss the mark and you live to tell the tale, then you are a coward. This is a perilous way of thinking.

If you make a mistake and die in the process, you may be thought of as mad (kichigai), but it will not bring shame.

This is the mind-set of one who firmly lives by the martial Way.

Rehearse your death every morning and night. Only when you constantly live as though already a corpse (jōjū shinimi) will you be able to find freedom in the martial Way, and fulfill your duties without fault throughout your life.