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The spirit of the smacking parry is not parrying, or smacking strongly, but smacking the enemy's long sword in accordance with his attacking cut, primarily intent on quickly cutting him. If you understand the timing of smacking, however hard your long swords clash together, your swordpoint will not be knocked back even a little. You must research sufficiently to realise this.

Miyamoto Musashi#38

CombatTimeTechniqueAttackDefenseResearch

About this quote

What does it mean?
The spirit of a parry is not defense but counter-attack in perfect timing. Research enough to keep your point steady even when swords clash.
In plain terms
Use a parry to strike back quickly, not just to block.
What can you take from it?
Research timing so your sword does not yield.

Where it applies

  • combat
  • defense
  • physical training

Putting it to work

  • study timing
  • practice counterattacks
  • steady your weapon

Questions to consider

  • How do you maintain balance under pressure?
  • What is your intent in defense?

Another view

Physical research takes significant time to yield results.

More from Miyamoto Musashi

  1. Fixed formation is bad. Study this well.

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  2. 'There are many enemies' applies when you are fighting one against many. Draw both sword and companion sword and assume a wide-stretched left and right attitud…

    Permalink to quote #39
  3. The primary thing when you take a sword in your hands is your intention to cut the enemy, whatever the means. Whenever you parry, hit, spring, strike or touch …

    Permalink to quote #36

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