ZEN IN THE ART OF ARCHERY

by Eugen Herrigel
ZEN IN THE ART OF ARCHERY cover
Good Books rating 4.05
Philosophy
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 8423
  • Added: 2025-12-21
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published: 1971-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Zen in the Art of Archery delves into the spiritual and philosophical principles of Zen Buddhism as they are applied to the practice of archery. The author shares his experiences studying both Zen and archery in Japan, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of mind, body, and spirit. This book is not just about archery; it's a meditation on the art of living mindfully and the pursuit of mastery in any discipline. /n/n The narrative is both a personal memoir and a philosophical exploration, blending the author's firsthand accounts with deeper insights into Zen teachings. It challenges readers to consider how the principles of focus, discipline, and presence can be applied to their own lives, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in Eastern philosophy or the pursuit of personal growth.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-12-22
excellent 3.50

The book is praised for its exploration of Zen principles and the journey of learning and perfecting archery. It is noted that mastering archery is not the key to achieving Zen, but rather a guide to understanding Zen principles.

This review highlights how the book is an excellent little book on a German's quest to better understand Zen Buddhism by learning archery. It notes that while the book starts slow, it eventually provides a deeper understanding of Zen principles. The reviewer appreciates the book's unique approach to teaching Zen through the practice of archery, making it a valuable read for those interested in both archery and Zen Buddhism.

Quick quotes

    Mastering archery is not the key to achieving Zen, and this is not a practical guide to archery.

    It is more a guide to Zen principles and learning and perfecting the art of archery.

    The book provides a deeper understanding of Zen principles through the practice of archery.

The Storygraph · 2023-01-01
enlightening 4.20

The book is praised for its exploration of Zen Buddhism through the lens of archery, although it starts slowly. The reviewer appreciates the deeper understanding gained towards the end.

This review highlights the book's slow start but ultimately praises it for its deep exploration of Zen Buddhism through the practice of archery. The reviewer finds the journey of the German author seeking to understand Zen to be compelling, especially as the book progresses. They appreciate the insights gained into the nature of Zen and the mind-body connection, making it a valuable read for those interested in both archery and Zen philosophy. The reviewer also notes that the book's practical lessons are timeless and applicable to various aspects of life.

Quick quotes

    Excellent little book on German's quest to better understand Zen Buddhism by learning archery.

    Though slow to start, towards the end we get to better understand the nature of Zen.

    The book offers a deep exploration of the mind-body connection in the pursuit of mastery.

Chris Jones Writes · 2018-10-16
enchanting 4.50

The book is described as beautiful and elegant, opening a gateway to understanding Zen principles. It is praised for its ability to convey complex ideas in an accessible manner.

In this review, the book is celebrated for its beauty and elegance, serving as a gateway to understanding Zen principles. The reviewer finds the writing to be accessible and the concepts to be profound, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in Zen Buddhism. They appreciate how the book translates the esoteric nature of Zen into practical insights, particularly through the metaphor of archery. The reviewer also notes that the book's slim volume belies its depth, offering a rich exploration of the mind-body connection in the pursuit of mastery.

Quick quotes

    Eugen Herrigel's Zen in the Art of Archery is a very beautiful book.

    For me it's very elegance opened a gateway, and I found the concepts easy to grasp.

    The book translates the esoteric nature of Zen into practical insights.

Empty Mirror Books · 2017-01-10
insightful 4.00

The book delves into the spiritual and religious aspects of archery in Japan, offering a unique perspective on the practice. It highlights the deep connection between the physical act of archery and the mental discipline required to achieve mastery.

This review explores how Zen in the Art of Archery transcends the mere act of shooting arrows, delving into the spiritual and religious dimensions of the practice in Japan. The author emphasizes that archery is not just a sport but a profound ritual that requires mental discipline and spiritual awareness. They appreciate the book's ability to convey the essence of Zen through the lens of archery, making it a compelling read for those interested in Eastern philosophy and martial arts. The reviewer also notes that the book's insights are timeless, offering valuable lessons on focus, patience, and the pursuit of perfection.

Quick quotes

    Herrigel's book focuses on the author's experience learning the religious ritual of archery.

    In modern Japan archery is no mere sport, but a religious ritual.

    The book offers a unique perspective on the practice of archery and its deep connection to mental discipline.

Appears in Lists