[Buddha-l] Query--forest tradition monks in Japan today?

[Stephen Hodge]

Kate Marshall wrote:

>"Bushi" means "warrior," though in light of Joanna's question regarding 
>weapons,
> perhaps a further explanation is warranted.

No, no, no !  Not here.  The "bushi" in "yamabushi" is a completely 
different word.  It is written with the character human radical (ninben) + 
dog, meaning something like "quelling" -- though I am not sure ofthe precise 
etymology for "yamabushi".  I think there is some useful material about 
these people in Carmen Blacker's Catalpa Bow.  I met some of these guys 
while I was in Japan and did fire-walking (one of their specialities) with 
them while I was in Japan.

Best wishes,
Stephen Hodge