Shu Ha Ri

Page 3

On March 26th 1921, Crown Prince Hirohito of Japan, who would later become emperor, visited Okinawa while in route to  Europe.  There, Prince Hirohito saw Funakoshi demonstrate the art of karate and was quite impressed.  In 1922, the Japanese Ministry of Education arranged for Funakoshi to give further demonstrations in Japan.  With some well intended prodding by Dr. Jigoro Kano, the founder of Kodokan Judo, Funakoshi left his home at age 53 to teach karate to the Japanese people.  His karate would soon evolve into the refined style known today.  Shortly afterward, Funakoshi changed the meaning of the word "karate" from "China hand" to "empty hand".  This subtle transformation enabled the Japanese people to more readily accept this art, which became know as Japanese-style karate.  

This was not the end of Funakoshi's quest to bring karate into the modern age, however.  Firmly believing that karate was destined to be more than a form of self defense, he modified his art to become known as karate-do.  His art accepted as a form of budo, a martial way of life with prescribed principles, Funakoshi reaffirmed the ways of peace and harmony in his techniques.  To augment this task, he incorporated several sayings and precepts into his system.  His peaceful dedication against violence and his belief in fostering humility took karate back to it's traditional origins and also transcended it: ri.

Dojo Kun

Of Funakoshi's peaceful expressions, the most famous are know as the "dojo kun".  These five maxims are said to have originated with Okinawan karate master Tode "Karate" Sakugawa (1733-1815).  Although the set contains five maxims, they all begin with a prefix number "one", enabling each to remain separate in meaning, yet inclusive of one underlying theme: to build inner strength and outward humility.

The Dojo Kun

One: To Seek Perfection of Character

One: To Always Be Faithful

One: To Endeavor to Excel

One: To Always Respect Others

One: To Refrain From Violent Behavior. 

Although the dojo kun can be read as "the rules of the dojo", they are actually rules to adhere to in everyday life.  The interpretations of the precepts vary, but they can assist students both in and out of the dojo.

'To Seek Perfection of Character", for example, could include perfecting your character and attitudes to conform with society and ethical practices; seeking to perfect your karate techniques to their fullest understanding; and forging your spirit without surrender.

"To Always Be Faithful", encourages faithfulness and loyalty to those things of importance and reverence in your life: your word, spouse, religion, etc.: being faithful, diligent and serious in your karate training; and being faithful to your sensei; his word goes without question.

"To Endeavor to Excel", includes moving forward in your life at home, school and work; forging ahead and excelling in your attainment of karatedo and strengthening your endeavors and dedication towards mastery of the spirit and the self.

To Always Respect Others", means to respect others regardless of their differences, as you would have then respect you; to respect the achievements of all who train in the dojo, recognizing that we all have different gifts as well as frailties; and to develop courtesy first and last. 

To Refrain From Violent Behavior", advocates that the martial artist stay clear of trouble and conflicts, never being antagonistic, never fighting with violence.  Rather, defend yourself with calm, train your spirit with humility and modesty and you will earn respect.

By adopting these simple phrases, Funakoshi brought karate back to its sixth-century roots, establishing it as a way of life.  By following these guidelines both in and out of the dojo, martial artists understand the true meaning and messages that karate holds.  Funakoshi left us a message in a calligraphy entitled Hatssun Jindo:  "Parting the clouds-Seeking the way".  If we part the clouds of ignorance and violence, we may yet see the way that karate offers each one of us.  To bring perfection to your karate, you must bring the mind, body and spirit into total harmony.

The next time that you put on your gi and begin to train, dismiss any misconceptions of aggression and replace them with the lessons of the schoolteacher from Okinawa.  Karate is not only a way of self defence, but also seeks enhanced understanding, humility and a wonderful way of life.