The release of the arrow is a moment of surrender from "summary" of Zen in the Art of Archery by Eugen Herrigel
When the arrow is released, it is not just the fingers that let it go, but also the will. For in the archer's hands, the bow becomes a living thing. It is not merely a mechanical device, but an extension of the archer's body and mind. The archer must let go of his desire to control the outcome, his need to hit the target. This act of surrender is not a passive resignation, but an active release of all preconceived notions and expectations. In that moment of release, the archer enters a state of pure concentration and unity. He becomes one with the bow, the arrow, and the target. There is no separation between the archer and his action. The arrow flies true because the archer has let go of his ego, his doubts, and his fears. He has surrendered to the moment, to the flow of the universe. This concept of surrender is at the heart of Zen practice. It is not about giving up or losing control, but about letting go of attachments and distractions. It is about being fully present in the here and now, without judgment or resistance. When the archer surrenders to the moment of release, he is able to tap into a deeper level of awareness and skill. He is able to transcend his limitations and connect with the fundamental nature of reality. Through the practice of archery, the archer learns the art of surrender. He learns to trust in his instincts, to be present in the moment, and to let go of his ego. He learns that true mastery comes not from force or effort, but from a place of inner stillness and harmony. And in that moment of surrender, the archer experiences a sense of freedom and liberation. He becomes one with the arrow, the bow, and the target. And in that moment, he is able to hit the bullseye, not through force or willpower, but through the power of surrender.
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