Karate is not a game of points, weight
classes or showy demonstrations. It is a martial art and way of life that
trains a practitioner to be peaceful; but if conflict is unavoidable, true
karate dictates taking down an opponent with a single blow.
Such an action requires strength, speed,
focus, control. But these physical aspects are only part of the practice; they
are just the vehicle, not the journey itself.
True karate is based on Bushido. In true
karate, the body, mind and Spirit
the whole person must be developed
simultaneously. Through kihon, kumite and kata we learn to control our
movements. But more importantly, we learn to give up control too. We can
perform the techniques without thinking about them, and remain focused
without
having to concentrate on any one thing. In essence, the body remembers
how to
move and the mind remembers how to be still.
This harmonious unity of mind and body is
intensely powerful. Even the greatest physical strength and skill are no match
for the power of wholeness.
The result of true karate is natural,
effortless action, and the confidence, humility, openness and peace only
possible through perfect unity of mind and body. This is the core teaching of
Zen, the basis of Bushido, and the of
the JKA’s karate philosophy.
Bushido:
The Way of the Samurai
Bushido has been the samurai code of conduct
in Japan for centuries. Based firmly on the teachings of Zen, Bushido was
intended to help the samurai master their nature and understand their minds and
the universe through direct experience as well as through fostering strength,
self-control and wisdom.
Bushido
is based on seven essential principles:
1. Seigi
: The right decision and rectitude
2. Yuki
: Bravery and heroism
3. Jin:
Compassion and benevolence to all
4. Reigi
: Courtesy and right action
5. Makoto:
Truthfulness and utter sincerity
6. Meiyo:
Honor and glory
7. Chugi:
Devotion and loyalty
Martial spirit and courage were, of course,
essential aspects of Bushido. But for the samurai, Bushido's highest goal was
complete virtue in thought and action. Each samurai followed a
carefully-designed regimen of polite ceremony and etiquette intended to promote
such virtue. With its emphasis on prescribed form, Bushido helped the samurai
harmonize mind with body, enabling them to maintain a certain calmness, or
heijoshin (literally, "ordinary everyday mind"), even in the face of
hardship. Sincerity, kindness, honesty, filial piety and honor all formed part
of the core of Bushido. And they were the seed from which the karate tradition
grew. These attributes, and the wisdom, understanding and peaceful strength
they promote, are some of karate's greatest benefits. They are also among
Japan's greatest gifts to the world.
