Kuji: A Spiritual Path

Heard about this book and decided to get it. I do the seals in the morning usually. All nine said with power and conviction. Seals are made with force.Shortly after I start, I feel the heat. I believe it is also helping me to be more calm but not docile. I don’t need to fight every battle but it gives me the courage if battles arise.

Here’s the thing. If you were raised in Western, Judeo-Christian, or secular paradigm, it is very difficult to understand kuji. The only way to explore this topic is find a personal teacher or find something written by a Westerner who has gone through the process. In Kuji: A Spritual Practice, James Clum serves as a guide first and foremost. Starting with the historical roots of nomadic cultures and oral traditions, the author explains the origins of the practice (to the best of our present understanding). Once the groundwork is set, readers are prepared to journey into the interpretations, applications, and explanations of kuji.One of the most satisfying elements of this text is it is written for both those interested in learning kuji, as well as those (like myself) who simply wish to better understand the subject. Within the pages you will find: what is the difference between kuji-kiri and kuji-in? Is this a Buddhist or secular practice? Do all Buddhists practice/believe in kuji? Is kuji sorcery, spell casting, or witchcraft? and much more.In some martial arts circles, the kuji is a hotly debated topic. But most are spouting uninformed opinions. I'm happy to have found James Clum’s book. I can now safely ignore the preposterous claims made from uninformed armies of Internet trolls.Whether your interest originates from martial arts, religious, academic, or cultural reasons, Kuji: A Spiritual Path is an outstanding resource. Clearly written, amply illustrated, and well presented, this is a must have addition to any library that covers these areas. I wish such a resource were available to me 30 years ago, but I am happy to accept this gift with enthusiasm. (And bonus points for all of the citations, for both written and for graphic/photo images. A+ on good ethics here).

Thank you coming out with this book I wish I would have had it years ago I had interest in his hand gestures chatting and cuz I know it was more than just a ninja way of living a Buddhist way of living so do you have any more literature or books to read if so do you have a a website or certain email address and keep in touch

The book called to me, very insightful. I devoured its contents in a couple of days. I am reading over again at a slower pace and experimenting with some of the exercises in the book. The only drawback is the lack of clarity in the images that are depicted here to describe the mudras for which , I have had to research on the web and on YouTube for a more detailed set of instructions and information. It has fulfilled my expectations and desire for knowledge. If only i had found this information earlier when I was active Karate and Iaijutsu, I am certain that it would have added an incredible experience. I am practicing some of the exercises and rituals in this book but as with everything else, practice, honest intention and patience are the keys to everything in the universe. Looking forward for the other manual.

The author has "been there, done that" so to speak. I began Buddhism in 1959 in Honolulu at th Jodo Zen mission just off the Lunalilo freeway. I later worked (and still do) with the Tibetan Buddhists. I felt an attraction to this book, bought it and soon saw why I was attracted to it. The author knows what he is talking about. I wish I had seen the book many years ago, but then I wouldn't have been ready for it.

I Learned of Kuji when living in Japan and my teacher showed me some of the basics. The author had exceptional rapports and I liked how he mentioned about aspects of learning when in debates. There is also an element to transfer certain knowledge in daily life. This reading was very pragmatic for me.

Useful overview of an obscure subject. There are other books which are more practical, but this book goes into more detail regarding the history and deeper meanings of the mudras. Provides descriptions of all nine mudras and the accompanying mantras, meditations and deities. The short histories and comparisons of exoteric and esoteric Buddhism are valuable in and of themselves. After reading this, you may also want to read Maha Vajra's books as well as any books you can find regarding Kukai and Shingon Buddhism.

It's always wise to know more about such a delicate topic.

Excellent information in the way I want it and understand it.