How can we fully understand aikido, or any other martial art, when we have only been exposed to part of it? While learning about the art, it is easy to make assumptions and be misled by false impressions. In most cases, even instructors do not have the depth of background to grasp the entirety of the art and may be content with teaching only a portion of it.

This special two-volume anthology details the many facets of aikido as formulated by Morihei Ueshiba (1883–1969)—O-Sensei, the great teacher. Each chapter adds a piece to the aikido puzzle by providing historical details, insightful technical drills (both bare-handed and with weapons), and elements that have imbued the art with a spiritual essence. From Ueshiba’s teachings, a number of streams have emerged—political splinter groups that offer their own interpretation of what aikido should be and how it should be practiced. While each branch stands on its own, many scholars and practitioners prefer a more holistic representation of what O-Sensei originally taught. The chapters in these volumes aim to help "put Humpty Dumpty back together again."

Volume I includes ten chapters, while Volume II offers another fourteen. The authors—twenty-one in total—bring superb credentials as both scholars and practitioners of aikido. On the academic side, you'll find chapters that explore aikido’s philosophy, ranging from ethical relationships and practical theory to the subtle spiritual dimensions of the art. Several authors examine the transmission of aikido from teacher to student, while others discuss how culture influences the perception and understanding of aikido, especially as it has traveled outside Japan.

Aikido is often practiced as a system of body movement grounded in a philosophy of peace and harmony, but many also study the art for its effective self-defense techniques. Composed of material previously published in the Journal of Asian Martial Arts, this two-volume anthology is rich in technical content, offering detailed discussions of training methods supported by hundreds of illustrations demonstrating attacks and defenses.

Whatever your primary interest in aikido may be, Aikido: O-Sensei’s Sublime Synthesis will prove to be a valuable reference for both scholars and practitioners. We hope this carefully curated collection of material on Morihei Ueshiba’s martial discipline will enhance your research and inspire your practice of this elegant art.