This is the fifth volume of Aikido Journal’s definitive series on the Founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba. “Divine Techniques” is comprised of a collection of 12 films of O-Sensei—several of them in color—from the period of 1962 to shortly before his death in 1969. It also includes a heretofore unpublished audio recording of the Founder’s voice.

Contents include: Iwama Dojo and Aiki Shrine, 1962 All-Japan Aikido Demonstration, 1964 Aikikai Hombu Dojo class, 1964 All-Japan University Aikido Demonstration, 1966 All-Japan Aikido Demonstration, 1966 Kumano Hongu Shrine Demonstration, 1967 Self-Defense Force Demonstration, 1967 Opening of the New Aikikai Hombu Dojo, 1968 Aikikai Hombu Dojo Special Demonstration, 1968 All-Japan Aikido Demonstration, 1968 Aikikai Hombu Dojo Kagami Biraki, 1969

Bonus Feature: O-Sensei audio interview

The final segment of this video program consists of excerpts from an unpublished taped interview of the Founder made c. 1965 wherein he talks about the unusual circumstances of his birth and his spiritual possession by a martial deity that determined the course of his long career. There are only a few surviving voice recordings of O-Sensei and hearing his actual voice will add a further dimension to the viewer’s appreciation of his charismatic personality. (11:12)