Karate = Learning How to Live

Karate = Learning How to Live

Karate-do, the way of the empty hand, is often perceived as a discipline focused solely on physical prowess and self-defence. However, this understanding overlooks the profound and holistic nature of the practice, encapsulated in the expression "忠孝両全" (as "ちゅうこうりょうぜん"). This aphorism, frequently used by Chotoku Kyan (喜屋武 朝徳), a prominent figure in Karate history who lived from 1870 to 1945, highlights the deeper, integrative mind/body/spirit benefits of Karate-do. The phrase "忠孝両全" is really about cultivating the mind and spirit in a manner that enhances piety and thus one's contribution to society. To be perfect in both loyalty and filial piety. Since loyalty and filial piety are essentially the same thing, it means that if filial piety is perfect, loyalty can also be fulfilled.

In the contemporary Karate world, there is a tendency to emphasise the physical and competitive aspects of the art, potentially overlooking its broader, more holistic benefits. Kyan’s philosophy reminds us that Karate-do is not merely about fortifying the body but also about cultivating a balanced and enduring state of mental and physical health.

This holistic approach aligns seamlessly with Itosu Anko's (糸洲 安恒) 10 Precepts of Karate. Itosu, who lived from 1831 to 1915, advocated for Karate as a lifelong pursuit beneficial to health and well-being, rather than just a means of combat. His precepts underscore the multifaceted nature of Karate training:

1. Karate is not merely practised for your own benefit; it can be used to protect one's family or master. It is intended as a way of avoiding injury by using the hands and feet should one be confronted by a villain or ruffian.

2. The purpose of Karate is to make the muscles and bones hard as rock and to use the hands and legs as spears. If children began training in military prowess from an early age, they would be well suited for military service. Remember the Duke of Wellington's words after defeating Napoleon: "Today's battle was won on the playing fields of our schools."

3. Karate cannot be quickly learnt. Like a slow-moving bull, it eventually travels a thousand leagues. Diligent daily training over years will bring about significant changes in physique and an understanding of the deeper principles of Karate.

4. Training the hands and feet is crucial in Karate. Practise thoroughly with a sheaf of straw, dropping your shoulders, opening your lungs, mustering your strength, gripping the floor with your feet, and concentrating your energy into your lower abdomen.

5. When practising stances, keep your back straight, lower your shoulders, strengthen your legs, stand firmly, and drop your energy into your lower abdomen.

6. Practise each technique repeatedly. Learn the explanations of every technique well, and decide when and how to apply them. The rule for torite is to enter, counter, and withdraw.

7. Decide if Karate is for your health or to aid your duty.

8. Train as if on the battlefield. Your eyes should glare, shoulders drop, and body harden. Always train with intensity and spirit as if facing the enemy, and you will naturally be ready.

9. Avoid excessive use of strength in training. Overexertion can deplete the energy in your lower abdomen and harm your body, causing your face and eyes to turn red. Control your training carefully.

10. Many past masters of Karate enjoyed long lives. Karate aids in developing bones and muscles, helps digestion, and improves circulation. Introducing Karate in elementary schools could produce many men capable of defeating ten assailants.

Complementing Itosu’s precepts are the Seven Principles of Bu by Matsumura Soken (松村 宗棍), who lived from 1809 to 1899. These principles outline the broader societal and ethical impacts of martial arts:

1. Bu prohibits violence: The practice of martial arts should prevent violence and promote peace.
2. Bu maintains discipline in soldiers: Martial arts instil discipline, making soldiers more effective and controlled.
3. Bu keeps control among the population: The presence of martial virtues helps maintain social order.
4. Bu spreads virtue: Martial arts encourage the spread of ethical and moral behaviour.
5. Bu gives a peaceful heart: Training fosters inner peace and emotional stability.
6. Bu helps to maintain peace between people: The virtues of martial arts promote harmony and reduce conflict.
7. Bu makes a people or nation prosperous: The discipline and virtues cultivated through martial arts contribute to the overall prosperity and well-being of a society.

These principles, together with Kyan’s favoured maxim, create a tapestry of teachings that champion Karate as a comprehensive discipline, fostering overall wellness and moral character. Matsumura’s emphasis on the broader social and ethical benefits of martial arts aligns with the holistic vision of Karate, where physical training is intertwined with ethical and mental development.

By juxtaposing Kyan’s expression with Itosu’s precepts and Matsumura’s principles, it becomes evident that the foundational teachings of Karate-do advocate for a practice that transcends mere physical prowess. This broader vision for Karate, integrating the cultivation of the spirit with the training of the body, remains crucial for practitioners seeking to understand the full scope and depth of their art. Karate-do teaches practitioners to embody values such as loyalty, filial piety, and respect, which extend beyond the dojo and into everyday interactions. By cultivating these virtues, practitioners learn to contribute positively to their communities, promote harmony, and foster an environment of mutual respect and support. The holistic approach of Karate-do encourages individuals to develop not only physical strength and mental resilience but also a strong moral character, guiding them to act with integrity and compassion in all aspects of life.

This philosophy aligns with the idea that true mastery of Karate-do involves a commitment to the well-being of others and the betterment of society as a whole. Practitioners are encouraged to use their skills and knowledge to protect the vulnerable, support their families, and contribute to the common good. In this way, Karate-do becomes a way of life that encompasses personal development, social responsibility, and a dedication to creating a positive impact on the world.

Embracing these holistic principles allows modern Karate practitioners to reconnect with the true essence of Karate-do, fostering a balanced and harmonious life. This broader vision for Karate-do not only enhances individual well-being but also strengthens the fabric of society by nurturing individuals who are committed to living ethically and contributing to the collective welfare.

Indeed, as I often try to have my students understand, "Budo is not about killing. Rather, it is about learning how to live" - you must study this well (James M. Hatch).

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