Mikkyo, Is this Mandatory?
Hello,
I understand that there is a good book by Mr.Serge Mol called Invisible Armor,which covers much of the Eastern Esoteric Practices that go hand in hand with the Combative nature and application of Warrior Arts.
I have unfortunately been unable to acquire the book so am at a bit of a loss.
I have read Mr.Risuke Otake's Book on Katori Shinto Ryu and obviously Shintoism and to a degree the esoteric practices of Mikkyo were prevalent.There was a brief explanation of the practice,however it was taken from one book,and this is obviously very little information for me to understand it even on a basic level.
I would just like to ask as a practicing Christian,if someone were to learn these Heiho,lets take Katori Shinto Ryu for example,how important is the study of this esoteric practice with relation to tuition and learning in the Dojo and the system as a whole.
As Christians we have similar practices.We do not have the Kuji-In,but we do have our own "mudra" such as making the sign of the cross,placing our hands together when in prayer etc.
We do not have mantra,but we do have prayers.
The Christian Knights of old would often cross themselves or kiss a cross around their neck before embarking on a Combative journey etc.
As a Christian I can understand,relate to and believe in these practices and what they symbolize.
I would like to know if a Christian would have to,need to,or even study Mikkyo or Esoteric Buddhism(even on an Academic Level) even though you do not believe in its nature as it is different to yours.In fact much of it would be going against my own religion,as some of it(excuse my lack of knowledge here)deals with divination etc.
Any insights or information would be great(especially practical information).I understand that the study of this type of practice might be necessary simply as a sign of respect to the Heiho and Warriors who died for its existence.
Thank you,
Gareth.