SHOOTING WITH BOW AND ARROW IN JAPANESE VERSUS WESTERN CULTURES
SHOOTING WITH BOW AND ARROW IN JAPANESE VERSUS WESTERN CULTURES

Summary/Abstract: This paper will use sociological cultural analysis to compare values and practices of shooting with the bow and arrow in Japanese vs Western culture, focusing on Eugen Herrigel’s Zen in the Art of Archery, first published in 1948. Herrigel shows the differences in mentalities between the two cultures with respect to shooting with a bow, which in Japanese culture is considered a philosophical act, rather than an act of strength. Japanese archery requires extensive training, as well as a certain state of mind, together with specific values related to the deep respect of the student for the master. As Herrigel is a Westerner, he can use the Japanese cultural approach to archery to guide his readers regarding their expectations for learning the practice. Herrigel’s book is of particular interest, due to current fascination with the specificities of the mindset and values inherent to any culture and civilization. The contemporary world urges us to be aware of the differences among cultures, and also to respect each and every way of thinking. Showing empathy towards cultural differences in thinking is customary, and even necessary, for anyone wishing to live in today’s society. Moreover, the contemplation of Zen archery, as presented by Herrigel, can be helpful even to those who have no intention of taking up the sport, particularly, though not intuitively, academics.The practice of archery and the symbol of the bow and arrow has been analysed from several viewpoints: religion, philosophy, cultural awareness and evolutionary anthropology.

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