Any aficionado of Japanese history and samurai lore is familiar with the story of Miyamoto Musashi. During the height of the power of the Shogun in the early 17th century, Musashi established himself as the greatest swordsman in Japan. His story has been told countless times, chronicled in numerous movies, television series, and books. Thus, it was not surprising that a new Japanese production entitled, “Musashi-The Battle and Truth of Miyamoto Musashi” was released in 2019. With a title like that, I was intrigued. Everybody knows the story. What would be the new angle for this story?
The entire movie is the opposite of any previous characterization of his story. I was incredulous as I viewed it and I was not the only one. Numerous reviewers, including those who were known scholars of the life of Musashi, chimed in and labeled the entire production as a farce. What was touted as the truth was exposed as an undeniable lie. The writers depicted Musashi as a clumsy and dim-witted ruffian. Even the sword fighting scenes, ones that should have been the highlight of any biography of Musashi, were poorly executed and amateurish.
This series reminded me about several “documentaries” I have recently viewed, touting the real Jesus Christ. These shows usually air around Christmas and Easter. While many faithfully retell the story of Jesus Christ, some take more liberties than others. Jesus is sometimes depicted as petty, confused, even fawning for another woman! This is not the story I know!
As He was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” And Jesus answered and said to them, “See to it that no one misleads you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will mislead many.
Matthew 24:3-6 (NASB)
It was inevitable that someone would create an erroneous version of the familiar story of Japan’s greatest swordsman. In these dark days in which we live, it is also inevitable that many will create their own false stories and depictions of Jesus Christ. Thanks be to God that He made sure that everyone knows the true story. He gave us the Holy Bible. Don’t settle for anything less than the original!
Love and trust in the Lord; seek His will in your life.
The Bereans Blog 