The Tao of War

The Tao of War is more than a book, it’s a philosophical training manual for those walking the path of the Warrior Poet. Blending the physical discipline of Martial Arts with the inner journey of self-mastery, this guide explores the balance between action and contemplation, strength and wisdom.

Drawing from the timeless principles of Applied Philosophy, it reveals how true martial practice is not just about mastering others, but mastering the self. Without philosophy, combat becomes tyranny; without action, philosophy is inert. The Tao of War bridges this divide, offering a roadmap for seekers of truth to uncover deeper layers of reality, identity, and purpose.

Ideal for martial artists, philosophers, and anyone drawn to the archetype of the Warrior Poet.

About the Author

Mikhail Abdul-Latif is an author, poet, musician, and lifelong martial artist from Seattle, Washington. He holds national wrestling titles in both Canada and the United States, is a Black Belt in Jiu-Jitsu, and spent many years traveling the world as a professional athlete while studying under various masters of martial arts and spiritual traditions. As an instructor and educator, he strives to help his students integrate the philosophical, practical, artistic, and spiritual aspects of their pursuits.

Praise for The Tao of War

Mikhail Abdul-Latif has written a compelling manual to guide the poet or spiritual warrior. He does so through a thoughtful examination of the philosophy undergirding the martial arts, along with an examination of the utility of various martial arts themselves. He posits that just as the fight against the outer enemy cannot be divorced from the fight against the inner enemy, the true martial arts cannot be separated from fighting itself. When these separations occur they leave fraud in their wake. As Mikhail reminds us, war is real. Its true reality is not to be found in brutalizing the weak and downtrodden, violence for the sake of violence, base domination, or weapon sales. Rather, it is in the liberation and protection of the soul, internal processes that lay the path for the liberation and protection of others. The beauty of war is to be found in this meaning. Hence, the beauty of the martial arts. 'The Tao of War' is a penetrating examination of that beauty.

— Imam Zaid Shakir