 NIN [yaiba+kokoro]
The meaning of nin is the topic of this essay. In China this skill has been called kan, cho, saisaku, tantei, and kansai. In our country the Chinese term was replaced, written as yaiba (blade) over kokoro (heart) as a single character representing nin [or shinobi], which carries a deep meaning. Without realization of its meaning, it is impossible to enter its path. Therefore, it is necessary to explore the meaning of nin. *While the Chinese used terminology that expressed plain understanding of espionage, the Japanese chose a character whose compounded ideograms represent a certain ideology. The Japanese reading (kunyomi) of the character nin is shinobi. The term itself had been in use since before the Heian period (794-1185) but was written with three characters used for their sounds rather than meaning. What is significant is the later choice of nin. |
 Why is a single character written as yaiba over kokoro used for terming these [set of] skills (jutsu)?
Because as a whole it encapsulates the essence of valor. A person dedicated to this jutsu must first commit to valor. And committing to this jutsu is similar as [committing to] valor. When a person does not know how to commit his heart, even if he tries, he shall not succeed. For the meaning of committing the heart and mind is to go beyond sheer enthusiasm. It is the commitment to valor that first and foremost comes out of obligation. Similarly, when valor is not prompted by obligation, it is not [true] valor in [the service] of one's lord. Valorous enthusiasm is but a temporary burst of anger that creates strength. However, as anger dissipates, this strength will not remain for long because it has not become innate. |
 Even when strength is deeply founded, if valor is fundamentally arising from impetuous impulse, it will surely cause resentment towards loyalty and excellence. [Then], there will not be thorough evaluation [of matters], nor proper preparation [for battle]. Consequently, one will only be concerned with saving oneself, and annihilating the enemy will fail.
* The content of this essay is important for both beginners and veterans. It explains that nin means being valorous as the result of obligation to one's lord. Young warriors should contemplate on the issue of strength as a matter of explosive anger vis-a-vis the result of a calm sense of duty. The first, though may create exceptional strength, it will not last long, and furthermore, it will hinder one's mind, thus eventually leading to failure. Veteran warriors, on the other hand, need to contemplate on the meaning of loyalty and obligation before self benefit. This is not easy at all. When the relationship between the lord and vassal or teacher and student, are well, there is no sacrifice involved in declaring loyalty. This is rather easy. It is much more difficult to adhere to loyalty and obligation when the retainer does not have a sense they are receiving immediate benefit from their lord. Only those who can unfetter themselves from what is essentially their own ego can understand this jutsu of nin. |
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