Friday, May 27, 2011 by C. Michial Jones
Karate is not a game of points, weight classes, or showy demonstrations. It is a martial art and a way of life that trains a practitioner to be a person of peace. However, if conflict becomes unavoidable, the reality of true karate dictates a singular, decisive objective: neutralizing an opponent with a single, focused blow (Ikken Hissatsu).
To achieve such an action requires strength, speed, focus, and control. Yet, these physical attributes are merely the vehicle—they are not the journey itself.
The Triad of Development: Body, Mind, and Spirit
True karate is anchored not only in the physical body but in a deep moral philosophy rooted in Bushido. In the traditional dojo, the body, mind, and spirit—the whole person—must be developed simultaneously. We utilize the “Three K’s” to achieve this:
- Kihon (Basics): To build the structural foundation.
- Kumite (Sparring): To test the application under pressure.
- Kata (Forms): To internalize the principles of the art.
Through these practices, we learn to control our movements. But, more importantly, we eventually learn the art of giving up control. We reach a stage where the body performs the technique without conscious thought, and the mind remains 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.
The Power of Wholeness
This harmonious unity of mind and body is more powerful than any isolated muscular feat. Even the greatest physical strength is no match for the power of wholeness. When the mind is divided—worrying about the outcome, fearing the opponent, or over-calculating the move—the technique is fractured. When the mind is still, the action is effortless.
The result of true karate is natural action. It fosters a unique kind of confidence, humility, and openness that is only possible through the perfect unity of self. This is the core teaching of Zen, the basis of Bushido, and the ultimate goal of our karate philosophy.
Expanding the Philosophical Horizon
While most karate-ka are familiar with Gichin Funakoshi’s Twenty Precepts, the Matsumura Makimono, or the Seven Virtues of Bu, the serious practitioner should look even deeper into the roots of Asian thought. To further one’s moral and philosophical training, I suggest exploring the foundational teachings of Siddhartha Gautama (The Buddha).
Specifically, the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path offer a profound framework for the martial artist. These teachings—focused on right understanding, right intent, and right action—provide the ethical compass necessary to carry the “lethal weapon” of karate through a civilized world.
By forging a mind that is as resilient as the body, we ensure that our karate is not just a method of fighting, but a vehicle for enlightenment and peace.
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