Esoteric Warriors

Kozma relates his strange encounters with unusual martial arts masters from China, Tibet and South East Asia. He tells of the methods of the Masters, their philosophies and life stories. Subjects include the Spontaneous Boxing of Dr. Serge Augier; the Taoist arts of Bruce Kumar Frantzis, the Phoenix Eye Fist of Pentjak Silat and many more.

Inspired by the author's personal training experiences, this book presents an intimate exploration of the philosophy of some of the rarest martial art forms. Encompassing the arts of China, Japan and India/South East Asia, it includes in-depth conversations with esteemed Masters such as Dr Serge Augier and Master He Jing Han.

Assembling original contributions, this book is a pioneering attempt to address the Euro-American esoteric reception and appropriation of China. Positioned between eighteenth-century's mesmerism and intersections with the modern martial arts current, the contributions specifically centre on nineteenth and early twentieth-century occult appraisals and representations. This book opens up an under-explored area of research in the field of East–West interactions and the global history of religions.

This unique study of the genesis and development of the earliest form of Buddhist self-defense practiced by Chuan Fa monks and mystics shows both the philosophical and physical basis of the skills developed and passed on to subsequent generations. This book seeks to reunite these concepts. Its teaching draws equally on the practices of North Chinese Chaan Movement Meditation Traditions and on the South Chinese Esoteric (Mi Chiao) School--both secret traditions rarely revealed to the general public. The material is presented so readers can understand that what we think of as a competitive sport is really a meditation mandala in action. Extensive appendices list the main Chinese dynasties, a chronology of Buddhist Sutras, a chronological record of scriptures, teachers, events during 1000 years of Indian and Chinese Buddhism, and translations of Bodhidharma`s texts including The Six Gates, Entering the Buddha`s Path, and the treatise upon the Bloodline Teaching of True Dharma.

In "An Esoteric Approach to The Bhagwad Gita," each verse is explained in 1.the context of Advainta Vedanta,Yoga .Sankhya 2.Western wisdom teachings' perspective 3. in terms of consciousness,subconsciouness and superconsciousness 4. interpreted in terms of will-power,wisdom and activity as far as possible. Embark on a transformative journey through the profound teachings of the Bhagavad Gita with "An Esoteric Approach to The Bhagwad Gita." This extraordinary book delves into the depths of each verse, offering a multi-dimensional exploration that goes beyond mere translation. Unlock the hidden wisdom and mysteries of this sacred scripture as the author presents an esoteric understanding, grounded in Hindu philosophy. But it doesn't stop there—the book expands the reader's perspective by integrating Western wisdom teachings, bridging the gap between ancient Eastern traditions and contemporary thought. Delve into the realms of consciousness, subconsciousness, and superconsciousness as you discover practical insights for personal growth and self-realization. Explore the interplay of willpower, wisdom, and activity, and learn to harmonize these essential elements of your being. "An Esoteric Approach to The Bhagwat Gita" is a profound guide that unlocks the hidden depths of this sacred scripture, empowering you to embrace its timeless wisdom and apply it to your life

Winner of the Norbert Elias Book Prize 2020 This is the first long-term analysis of the development of Japanese martial arts, connecting ancient martial traditions with the martial arts practised today. The Historical Sociology of Japanese Martial Arts captures the complexity of the emergence and development of martial traditions within the broader Japanese Civilising Process. The book traces the structured process in which warriors’ practices became systematised and expanded to the Japanese population and the world. Using the theoretical framework of Norbert Elias’s process-sociology and drawing on rich empirical data, the book also compares the development of combat practices in Japan, England, France and Germany, making a new contribution to our understanding of the socio-cultural dynamics of state formation. Throughout this analysis light is shed onto a gender blind spot, taking into account the neglected role of women in martial arts. The Historical Sociology of Japanese Martial Arts is important reading for students of Socio-Cultural Perspectives in Sport, Sociology of Physical Activity, Historical Development of Sport in Society, Asian Studies, Sociology and Philosophy of Sport, and Sports History and Culture. It is also a fascinating resource for scholars, researchers and practitioners interested in the historical and socio-cultural aspects of combat sport and martial arts.

Originally published: Wellingborough: Aquarian Press, 1983.