Remember, your cultural programming will greatly influenced the experience. Your cultural programming also influenced your expectations. The only way you can even begin to experience Japanese is to become one and that would take being born in Japan or at the very least to live in Japan for an entire lifetime.
Otherwise, even if you lived there for decades, your personal cultural programming will greatly influence that experience to a degree that you would and still are an "outsider" to the Japanese and the Japanese culture.
Many folks assume that to be a true martial artists one "must" travel to the place where it was born and to participate under the guidance of a Japanese Sensei and all that entails. Then we get these grandiose idea's that we will be certified by them and come back home as true Sensei of the traditional kind.
Often the well intentioned and anxious/excited visitor will be surprised and frustrated when that vision of exotic Asian martial arts turns out to not fit the picture, the assumptions, they created within their own minds.
So, the next question would naturally be, "how can I get the most out of my visit?" The answer is to study as much of the cultural system of the people of Japan, or Okinawa if your practicing karate, and learn as much about the culture, beliefs and cultural words, kanji and kana as possible then go with not expectations other than to train hard. Expect that the reality gap between you, a Westerner, and the Japanese Sensei, Senpai and Kohai of the dojo will be huge and work hard with humility. Especially, refrain your instinct and impulse to talk, talk, talk. Listen and Observe and when appropriate, not in the dojo but after when indulging in food and drink, ask our questions and actively/syntonically listen.
Have a good time and soak it all up, it is worth the time, effort and discipline.
Lessons on the Internet
Today, I gleamed another new trait that a martial practitioner might find useful. It is avoidance when you encounter indignation via viral flame postings in the news, on television and on blog posts. The current viral thing is causing a lot of postings and that inflames others and more postings, etc.
We are feeding the monkey and the monkey is driving the bus. So, lets practice our ability at avoidance by first addressing the emotions this all triggers in all humans instinctively. Now, let it pass as all emotions do - emotions are transitory.
Now, lets address the substantive aspects of this viral flame war.
Is it kind? No, not one bit. It is an injustice to all parties. Let the proper authorities do what they do best and wait for the end of the story.
Is it true? No, almost all the information we encounter is slanted to gain the most readers and thus the most money. Let the proper authorities do what they do best and wait for the end of the story.
Is it necessary? No, this viral gossip traffic simply inflames the monkey chatter and that promotes the flame wars, etc. What is this but "CONFLICT." Conflict that accomplishes nothing.
So, now that the emotions are flittering away into the far reaches of oblivion and the facts that remain are No! No! and No! Remove yourself from the conflict, remove yourself from the environment and wait, be patient, and see how the story ends. It is going to end that way anyway so relax, take a deep breath and avoid it all.
This is a lesson that comes from martial practice and can enhance and train your mind to avoid, deescalate, and display good manners. Isn't this the "way" in both martial and living life?
Here is a technique I am trying to use to avoid, deescalate, etc. Open your notepad on your computer. Go ahead and express all the indignation you want on the note pad. Use all the words euphemisms, etc. you want, really let it all out and don't worry about spelling, etc.
Now, go back and read it. Read it again. Now ask the three questions, i.e. "Is it kind?," "Is it true?," and "Is it necessary?" Be honest and then after ward hit the delete button. By that time your emotionally driven monkey brain will have gone through all the emotions and you can delete it without having to add your tirade to the flames of the Internet communications. Now, didn't that feel good and you did no harm to anyone and you actually diverted the ill effects of indignation and emotions from their un-healty effects on your mind and body. Ain't that cool. I used this one today after a slip up :-)
We are feeding the monkey and the monkey is driving the bus. So, lets practice our ability at avoidance by first addressing the emotions this all triggers in all humans instinctively. Now, let it pass as all emotions do - emotions are transitory.
Now, lets address the substantive aspects of this viral flame war.
Is it kind? No, not one bit. It is an injustice to all parties. Let the proper authorities do what they do best and wait for the end of the story.
Is it true? No, almost all the information we encounter is slanted to gain the most readers and thus the most money. Let the proper authorities do what they do best and wait for the end of the story.
Is it necessary? No, this viral gossip traffic simply inflames the monkey chatter and that promotes the flame wars, etc. What is this but "CONFLICT." Conflict that accomplishes nothing.
So, now that the emotions are flittering away into the far reaches of oblivion and the facts that remain are No! No! and No! Remove yourself from the conflict, remove yourself from the environment and wait, be patient, and see how the story ends. It is going to end that way anyway so relax, take a deep breath and avoid it all.
This is a lesson that comes from martial practice and can enhance and train your mind to avoid, deescalate, and display good manners. Isn't this the "way" in both martial and living life?
Here is a technique I am trying to use to avoid, deescalate, etc. Open your notepad on your computer. Go ahead and express all the indignation you want on the note pad. Use all the words euphemisms, etc. you want, really let it all out and don't worry about spelling, etc.
Now, go back and read it. Read it again. Now ask the three questions, i.e. "Is it kind?," "Is it true?," and "Is it necessary?" Be honest and then after ward hit the delete button. By that time your emotionally driven monkey brain will have gone through all the emotions and you can delete it without having to add your tirade to the flames of the Internet communications. Now, didn't that feel good and you did no harm to anyone and you actually diverted the ill effects of indignation and emotions from their un-healty effects on your mind and body. Ain't that cool. I used this one today after a slip up :-)
New Blog
I tend to spend time posting on terminology as it relates to the kanji/kana so thought it might best serve the martial community to create a blog devoted to defining the terms with an association to the kanji/kana or "ideograms," used from a traditional point of view. At least as close as I can come from my understanding and perception.
I ask for patience and indulgence with a caveat that all comments complementing, correcting or refuting my views are "Welcome." If you do refute or correct my posting please provide a source for the correction.
I have five web sites I use in my research along with several books on the cultural words of the country involved, i.e. Japan and China, not to forget two outstanding dictionaries in book form.
Welcome or "Mensori," to the martial art terminology blog, I look forward to an continuous exchange of information to take us closer to the culture and belief systems that brought us the arts such as Okinawan Karate/Kobudo, Japanese Aikido and the many other systems in practice today.
I ask for patience and indulgence with a caveat that all comments complementing, correcting or refuting my views are "Welcome." If you do refute or correct my posting please provide a source for the correction.
I have five web sites I use in my research along with several books on the cultural words of the country involved, i.e. Japan and China, not to forget two outstanding dictionaries in book form.
Welcome or "Mensori," to the martial art terminology blog, I look forward to an continuous exchange of information to take us closer to the culture and belief systems that brought us the arts such as Okinawan Karate/Kobudo, Japanese Aikido and the many other systems in practice today.
The link is : Martial Art Terminology
Prejudice
Prejudice: Preconceived opinion not based on reason or experience; a prejudgment: i.e. an assumption made about someone or something before having adequate knowledge to be able to do so with guaranteed accuracy. ...
Assumptions are a dangerous commodity when dealing with violence. It is difficult to not allow nature's survival instincts to take what is and connect it with what is perceived and often ending in a inaccurate assumption that can and does lead to damage.
Another reason why I try to gather as much accurate and valid data I can to bring my data-storage up to speed so the brain will have something to draw on and learn from in practice, before I have to apply it on the street. Our accuracy in applying or lives to living depends greatly on what we have accurately and correctly in the minds storage banks.
Remaining open-minded even after achieving a level of competence in knowledge is not a guarantee assumptions won't be inaccurate. To constantly allow for change is critical. To allow your beliefs to remain flexible to change when encountering more data on a daily basis. Isn't it the principle of the universe, yin-n-yang, that all things, phenomena and beings are a matter fo dynamic relativity in each and every moment as it is encountered and experienced?
A lack of neutrality is truth and truth is relative then all things martially applied are neutral and relative to the moment. Isn't the goal of training and practice to achieve a level of dynamism whereby the quality, quantity and structure of application is constituent on yin-yang elements or tendencies which are combined in various proportions for the desired results.
To take a dogmatic and absolute view of martial systems due to some preconceived notion of loyalty to some long deceased master seems counter to the principle of dualistic monism - the yin-yang principles of the universe. If we are to truly live up to the nature of the universe then we have to allow ourselves to reach limits far, above and past the limitations our former leaders provided. Isn't the epitome of respect to demonstrate a level that exceeds those who have come before us?
Isn't it the true goal of any art form to things beyond any absolute and to remain flowing within the two ranges of the spectrum governed by the universes polar opposites - that of the yin and of the yang?
Don't prejudice your practice with assumptions and dogmatic adherence to something ephemeral in nature - go beyond the art.
Assumptions are a dangerous commodity when dealing with violence. It is difficult to not allow nature's survival instincts to take what is and connect it with what is perceived and often ending in a inaccurate assumption that can and does lead to damage.
Another reason why I try to gather as much accurate and valid data I can to bring my data-storage up to speed so the brain will have something to draw on and learn from in practice, before I have to apply it on the street. Our accuracy in applying or lives to living depends greatly on what we have accurately and correctly in the minds storage banks.
Remaining open-minded even after achieving a level of competence in knowledge is not a guarantee assumptions won't be inaccurate. To constantly allow for change is critical. To allow your beliefs to remain flexible to change when encountering more data on a daily basis. Isn't it the principle of the universe, yin-n-yang, that all things, phenomena and beings are a matter fo dynamic relativity in each and every moment as it is encountered and experienced?
A lack of neutrality is truth and truth is relative then all things martially applied are neutral and relative to the moment. Isn't the goal of training and practice to achieve a level of dynamism whereby the quality, quantity and structure of application is constituent on yin-yang elements or tendencies which are combined in various proportions for the desired results.
To take a dogmatic and absolute view of martial systems due to some preconceived notion of loyalty to some long deceased master seems counter to the principle of dualistic monism - the yin-yang principles of the universe. If we are to truly live up to the nature of the universe then we have to allow ourselves to reach limits far, above and past the limitations our former leaders provided. Isn't the epitome of respect to demonstrate a level that exceeds those who have come before us?
Isn't it the true goal of any art form to things beyond any absolute and to remain flowing within the two ranges of the spectrum governed by the universes polar opposites - that of the yin and of the yang?
Don't prejudice your practice with assumptions and dogmatic adherence to something ephemeral in nature - go beyond the art.
Time is Relevent
When you no longer notice time as it slips past each present moment is a desired effect of practice and training. Why? Once you forget time and just remain in that present moment practicing and training for each moment exclusively you may find that time passes in a different way. It seems today that the time that passed since Sho-dan in 79 is but a flash to the present moment.
I cannot say when I stopped considering time but instead just practiced and trained daily, in the moment. I just suddenly realized one day due to some event I undertook that suddenly I had spent thirty some odd years in practice and training. It is like when I think of my first day at MCRD Parris Island, 1972, I find it interesting that this occurred forty years past - incredible how time flies when you pay it no attention, i.e. focus on the minutes, hours and days.
I look forward to retirement from work. Why? Because I intend to take my watch and throw it in the back of the closet. I will try my utmost to convert my body and mind over to time as dictated by nature, i.e. night to day to night, summer to fall to winter to spring, etc. I hope to leave the calendar off the wall and simply track movement by the moment in accordance with nature.
In karate-jutsu-do in the beginning time was something one tried to get past quickly as time was attached to the award of levels or rank or colored belts. To say I took only one year to achieve a black belt was pretty impressive and today it is more the meaning of the black belt and the time has fallen off and out of the mind. It is more important to remain true to the meaning of black belt then to actually wearing one or saying I am one or saying I achieved this distinction in only a year or so.
Shifting paradigms is another important aspect of following the more traditional/classic way of the empty hand. We begin as one thing and if we are successful we shift into something else - continuously for change is forever, moving is forever and thinking of practice and training as ephemeral is the way.
Think about the successes. Think about the failures to guide you toward the successes. Think about the moment, remain present and in that moment for all training and practice. Far better than focusing on the time, i.e. the time to the next class; the time to the next tournament; the time to the next belt test; the time to reach black belt.
What does it require inside yourself to achieve the level that benefits your practice and training? Some considerations as you travel the way of the empty hand!
There once was a young man who practiced hard for over ten years on just one kata. He just couldn't get it but he forgot about all else but learning that one thing. No matter what was done and how hard all the dojo worked diligently and continuously this young man just couldn't get it down. He came every class with few exceptions. He gave one hundred fifty percent of his time and effort with motivation and desire, every single session. Now, that to me is a black belt! He hasn't quit yet and this was around 1991 to 2001.
I cannot say when I stopped considering time but instead just practiced and trained daily, in the moment. I just suddenly realized one day due to some event I undertook that suddenly I had spent thirty some odd years in practice and training. It is like when I think of my first day at MCRD Parris Island, 1972, I find it interesting that this occurred forty years past - incredible how time flies when you pay it no attention, i.e. focus on the minutes, hours and days.
I look forward to retirement from work. Why? Because I intend to take my watch and throw it in the back of the closet. I will try my utmost to convert my body and mind over to time as dictated by nature, i.e. night to day to night, summer to fall to winter to spring, etc. I hope to leave the calendar off the wall and simply track movement by the moment in accordance with nature.
In karate-jutsu-do in the beginning time was something one tried to get past quickly as time was attached to the award of levels or rank or colored belts. To say I took only one year to achieve a black belt was pretty impressive and today it is more the meaning of the black belt and the time has fallen off and out of the mind. It is more important to remain true to the meaning of black belt then to actually wearing one or saying I am one or saying I achieved this distinction in only a year or so.
Shifting paradigms is another important aspect of following the more traditional/classic way of the empty hand. We begin as one thing and if we are successful we shift into something else - continuously for change is forever, moving is forever and thinking of practice and training as ephemeral is the way.
Think about the successes. Think about the failures to guide you toward the successes. Think about the moment, remain present and in that moment for all training and practice. Far better than focusing on the time, i.e. the time to the next class; the time to the next tournament; the time to the next belt test; the time to reach black belt.
What does it require inside yourself to achieve the level that benefits your practice and training? Some considerations as you travel the way of the empty hand!
There once was a young man who practiced hard for over ten years on just one kata. He just couldn't get it but he forgot about all else but learning that one thing. No matter what was done and how hard all the dojo worked diligently and continuously this young man just couldn't get it down. He came every class with few exceptions. He gave one hundred fifty percent of his time and effort with motivation and desire, every single session. Now, that to me is a black belt! He hasn't quit yet and this was around 1991 to 2001.
Makoto
The outgoing intuitive capacity of mind; its model in the physiological is the creation of life by means of the harmonious integration of the yin and yang. It rests upon the state of selflessness.
誠実（せいじつ） / good faith, sincerity, faithfulness, honesty, fidelity, honest, faithful, truthful, sincere
誠心誠意（せいしんせいい） / wholeheartedly, devotedly, faithfully, from the bottom of one's heart
誠に（まことに） / really, truly, indeed, very, much, greatly, sincerely
誠を尽くす（まことをつくす） / do in good faith
When speaking of integration of yin and yang we have to speak in both literal and spiritual aspects pulling both together into one whole-heart view, perception and understanding. Shinto is wa and wa is harmony in all things.
Heaven, man and Earth - harmonious balance that connects and brings enlightenment in the actions, deeds and thoughts of humanity. The universe encompasses many systems including ours as if they were separate persons while our solar system is but one of many. The sun can be equated to the heart of man while the moon can be the hara where the sun provides a solar energy and the hara influences the Earth as man's hara influences his being.
Only by a cohesion of all parts into a whole integrated and harmonious one can the way be followed to the betterment of the person, the dojo and society or humanity as a whole.
誠実（せいじつ） / good faith, sincerity, faithfulness, honesty, fidelity, honest, faithful, truthful, sincere
誠心誠意（せいしんせいい） / wholeheartedly, devotedly, faithfully, from the bottom of one's heart
誠に（まことに） / really, truly, indeed, very, much, greatly, sincerely
誠を尽くす（まことをつくす） / do in good faith
When speaking of integration of yin and yang we have to speak in both literal and spiritual aspects pulling both together into one whole-heart view, perception and understanding. Shinto is wa and wa is harmony in all things.
Heaven, man and Earth - harmonious balance that connects and brings enlightenment in the actions, deeds and thoughts of humanity. The universe encompasses many systems including ours as if they were separate persons while our solar system is but one of many. The sun can be equated to the heart of man while the moon can be the hara where the sun provides a solar energy and the hara influences the Earth as man's hara influences his being.
Only by a cohesion of all parts into a whole integrated and harmonious one can the way be followed to the betterment of the person, the dojo and society or humanity as a whole.
Gyo 業 (?):
Note: If anyone knows the true character for gyo, i.e. those exercises called in Shinto as gyo to achieve reinvigoration of intuition.
The exercises of gyo:
DIET: cereals are the foundation of "wa" or "harmony." Man's main foods should be obtained form cereals or grains.
HARA: one should focus physical energy here, dynamic physical activities are needed.
BRAIN: to exercise the mind continuously is necessary. to learn to think in a way to focus mental energy. to see the world as two-in-one. to constantly exercise your mental faculties is important.
SERVICE: there is no greater work then to provide service to others. to revitalize the human capacity for giving.
SELF-REFLECTION: to be practiced diligently and refined continuously. to peer int the "mirror" that reflects life in its totality.
To change into the freedom of "Makoto" to become spontaneous in self-expression in harmony with the life and order of the universe.
The exercises of gyo:
DIET: cereals are the foundation of "wa" or "harmony." Man's main foods should be obtained form cereals or grains.
HARA: one should focus physical energy here, dynamic physical activities are needed.
BRAIN: to exercise the mind continuously is necessary. to learn to think in a way to focus mental energy. to see the world as two-in-one. to constantly exercise your mental faculties is important.
SERVICE: there is no greater work then to provide service to others. to revitalize the human capacity for giving.
SELF-REFLECTION: to be practiced diligently and refined continuously. to peer int the "mirror" that reflects life in its totality.
To change into the freedom of "Makoto" to become spontaneous in self-expression in harmony with the life and order of the universe.
Truly Gifted
Those who manage to maintain a traditional way while earning a living with martial teaching are few and warrant a good deal of respect and admiration for they are balanced on the sharpest blade imaginable. To remain true to your traditions while teaching for monetary gain, regardless of the size of the income, takes courage and fortitude few have.
To those who are in that category, my hat goes off to you and your chosen way for it is most difficult and denotes greatness that few attain - Kampai Sensei, thanks for leading the charge.
To those who are in that category, my hat goes off to you and your chosen way for it is most difficult and denotes greatness that few attain - Kampai Sensei, thanks for leading the charge.
The Bigger Picture
Today I read the post by Sensei Clarke, HERE CLICK HERE ;-), and found two quotes I feel are important. My thanks to Sensei Clarke for inspiring correct thinking with these quotes.
Often we get so involved in status, ego, pride and the workings of such gargantuan tasks we lose sight of the core of follow the way of the empty hand. Mike Clarke tells is like it is and that is very good - cool. Read these two for me and tell me if they don't or do hit a resonant cord with your practice. I especially like the reference to what a person considers for themselves, i.e. a member with all that brings with it both good and bad and a colored belt vs. what you have inside you, your true proficiency in following the way and applying karate-jutsu.
I hope I am more than either of these, a member and a belt color. I admit I have experienced both and found something missing. I am finally in a state of feeling where I am discovering what I am truly and completely - so I continue to hope.
Thanks Mr. Clarke, for the inspirations you provide today.
p.s. when I state "the bigger picture" I am not saying this in a literal sense.
p.s.s. the quotes:
"Of course, there is little kudos to be gained by just training, and you could find that a couple of decades have slipped by and no one (outside your dojo) knows who you are. But....I think that is a far better situation to be in than the place many in karate and on the internet find themselves today." - Mike Clarke Sensei of Shinseidokan Dojo Blog
"So, as far as your karate is concerned, if you're considered a member rather than a student, or a belt color rather than a person.....perhaps you need to change your situation, refocus your gaze, and get a better look at the bigger picture." Mike Clarke Sensei Shinseidokan Dojo Blog
Often we get so involved in status, ego, pride and the workings of such gargantuan tasks we lose sight of the core of follow the way of the empty hand. Mike Clarke tells is like it is and that is very good - cool. Read these two for me and tell me if they don't or do hit a resonant cord with your practice. I especially like the reference to what a person considers for themselves, i.e. a member with all that brings with it both good and bad and a colored belt vs. what you have inside you, your true proficiency in following the way and applying karate-jutsu.
I hope I am more than either of these, a member and a belt color. I admit I have experienced both and found something missing. I am finally in a state of feeling where I am discovering what I am truly and completely - so I continue to hope.
Thanks Mr. Clarke, for the inspirations you provide today.
p.s. when I state "the bigger picture" I am not saying this in a literal sense.
p.s.s. the quotes:
"Of course, there is little kudos to be gained by just training, and you could find that a couple of decades have slipped by and no one (outside your dojo) knows who you are. But....I think that is a far better situation to be in than the place many in karate and on the internet find themselves today." - Mike Clarke Sensei of Shinseidokan Dojo Blog
"So, as far as your karate is concerned, if you're considered a member rather than a student, or a belt color rather than a person.....perhaps you need to change your situation, refocus your gaze, and get a better look at the bigger picture." Mike Clarke Sensei Shinseidokan Dojo Blog
Martial Essence
First one must understand that the essence of martial systems is a physio-psychological sensitivity to the structure and direction of movement within nature, i.e. constituting nature. If we fail to recognize this true essence then it will become a physical means of dominance toward man. This is in direct contradiction to the true meaning of the way.
One must strengthen and refine the physical center (hara: haragei) of the individual. Only when the self is balance and in harmony can it achieve the same in society. Once the self is fully centered and the centering is centered in the physical body, the hara, only then can one achieve a harmonious unification, i.e. create a holistic whole, wholeheartedly, of the entire self.
This is accomplished through diet, physical activity (karate-jutsu-do to name one means), mental activity, establishment of order (in its most basic state achieved through kata or shikata of life), by serving others (the senpai/kohai and dojo community achieves this so the individual can express and achieve this in the greater society), and self-reflection (to look into the mirror of self and truly see both sides of self).
When we add the yin, i.e. mental activities, etc., to the yang, i.e. kihon, kata and kumite of karate-do, we achieve a whole that begins to train the intuitive aspects of the mind so that it may lead the body toward a holistic practice in both physical and spiritual domains.
One must strengthen and refine the physical center (hara: haragei) of the individual. Only when the self is balance and in harmony can it achieve the same in society. Once the self is fully centered and the centering is centered in the physical body, the hara, only then can one achieve a harmonious unification, i.e. create a holistic whole, wholeheartedly, of the entire self.
This is accomplished through diet, physical activity (karate-jutsu-do to name one means), mental activity, establishment of order (in its most basic state achieved through kata or shikata of life), by serving others (the senpai/kohai and dojo community achieves this so the individual can express and achieve this in the greater society), and self-reflection (to look into the mirror of self and truly see both sides of self).
When we add the yin, i.e. mental activities, etc., to the yang, i.e. kihon, kata and kumite of karate-do, we achieve a whole that begins to train the intuitive aspects of the mind so that it may lead the body toward a holistic practice in both physical and spiritual domains.
Literalism vs. Symbolism
It seems to be our nature in the West, to see things in a literal sense. In the East and many other cultures symbolism is that which denotes a good deal of things in one snapshot.
When we see things or read things or experience things we tend to see that which is the surface, that which is without metaphor or allegory and usually without any symbolic meaning - it is literally raining outside. It is that which is absolute, the exact words of the original, copied exactly, etc. It expresses the essential or genuine character of something.
Symbolism is that which represents something else, an idea or a quality. It has something intrinsic to some natural object, fact or event. It is poetic in nature in providing an image that directly or in most cases, indirectly, provides an indirect suggestion to express some idea, emotion or state of mind. It is that system which presents symbols or symbolic representations. It opens the mind to more that merely the literalism of some exact idea, quality or event, etc.
In what I see from my recent studies of the Asian cultures that provided us the practice and study of the art of the empty hand or any martial system was its conveying of said studies through symbolism, i.e. both images and characters which are in and of themselves symbolic in expressing and communicating.
This type of communications has more depth and results in a person achieving a fluid mind whereby all things are not set in stone but rather a fluid nature changing at every moment. Literalism is a rigid unforgiving method often used in initial training and teachings. It is not understood that it is meant to achieve a more holistic approach to the whole that is the way or Tao.
Literalism is that which opens the gate to symbolic communications required for a more holistic way vs. the dogmatic adherence to a literal way of life. Another lesson to the symbolic meaning in Yin-Yang. It is not just a black and white design but holds a hidden meaning far and beyond the literal view taking us to the other side of that mirror showing us the dualistic monism of life.
Ain't life grand?
When we see things or read things or experience things we tend to see that which is the surface, that which is without metaphor or allegory and usually without any symbolic meaning - it is literally raining outside. It is that which is absolute, the exact words of the original, copied exactly, etc. It expresses the essential or genuine character of something.
Symbolism is that which represents something else, an idea or a quality. It has something intrinsic to some natural object, fact or event. It is poetic in nature in providing an image that directly or in most cases, indirectly, provides an indirect suggestion to express some idea, emotion or state of mind. It is that system which presents symbols or symbolic representations. It opens the mind to more that merely the literalism of some exact idea, quality or event, etc.
In what I see from my recent studies of the Asian cultures that provided us the practice and study of the art of the empty hand or any martial system was its conveying of said studies through symbolism, i.e. both images and characters which are in and of themselves symbolic in expressing and communicating.
This type of communications has more depth and results in a person achieving a fluid mind whereby all things are not set in stone but rather a fluid nature changing at every moment. Literalism is a rigid unforgiving method often used in initial training and teachings. It is not understood that it is meant to achieve a more holistic approach to the whole that is the way or Tao.
Literalism is that which opens the gate to symbolic communications required for a more holistic way vs. the dogmatic adherence to a literal way of life. Another lesson to the symbolic meaning in Yin-Yang. It is not just a black and white design but holds a hidden meaning far and beyond the literal view taking us to the other side of that mirror showing us the dualistic monism of life.
Ain't life grand?
Social Connections Okinawa Karate ....
Courtesy Sensei Mike Clark from his latest post at the Shinseidokan Dojo blog. I am passing along both the article he wrote cause its a good one and the actual dojo bar URL for those who may or already are visiting the Island of Karate.
Body-Mind Holistic Approach
"Structure of mental movement should be one with the structure of physical movement to develop the body's instinctive understanding of life." - Nahum Stiskin.
The body follows the mind and the mind leads the body whereby the body trains the mind to see, hear and feel the body creating a unified mind-body for a wholehearted understanding of all things.
The quote came from the writings of Nahum Stiskin in the book "The Looking-Glass God: Shinto, Yin-Yang, and a Cosmology for Today." It provided me the idea that reinforces my belief that our body-mind training holds a high place in the practice of martial survival systems like karate-jutsu-do. It also alludes to the connection the practice of mind-body training includes the more philosophical side as presented with the "ken-po goku-i." This along with other findings in my research tend to bear this out as true and the only solid way to move through life.
We tend to take to many shortcuts because we seem to have this overwhelming urge, an obsession really, to get to the end and the heck with all those requirements in the middle. The most direct route is not always the best. A direct route might involve obstacles along it that would disrupt and damage the journey delaying the true goal at the end while taking another more fluid route might take a bit longer but the end result is reaching a true, solid and long-lasting goal with more benefits to you, your life, your practice, your family and your friends and associates in your group, tribe or society.
This is something to think about, yes?
The body follows the mind and the mind leads the body whereby the body trains the mind to see, hear and feel the body creating a unified mind-body for a wholehearted understanding of all things.
The quote came from the writings of Nahum Stiskin in the book "The Looking-Glass God: Shinto, Yin-Yang, and a Cosmology for Today." It provided me the idea that reinforces my belief that our body-mind training holds a high place in the practice of martial survival systems like karate-jutsu-do. It also alludes to the connection the practice of mind-body training includes the more philosophical side as presented with the "ken-po goku-i." This along with other findings in my research tend to bear this out as true and the only solid way to move through life.
We tend to take to many shortcuts because we seem to have this overwhelming urge, an obsession really, to get to the end and the heck with all those requirements in the middle. The most direct route is not always the best. A direct route might involve obstacles along it that would disrupt and damage the journey delaying the true goal at the end while taking another more fluid route might take a bit longer but the end result is reaching a true, solid and long-lasting goal with more benefits to you, your life, your practice, your family and your friends and associates in your group, tribe or society.
This is something to think about, yes?
Zen vs. Gen (Guhn)
The Japanese Zen practitioners adopted religious meditation from China. It involves developing techniques to focus on a single object or sound for extended periods of time. This process is meant to allow practitioners to achieve a level of focus or concentration effectively on subjects and challenges. The Japanese samurai swordsman used these techniques to enhance and improve on their skills with the sword.
While this practice originated from China, the Chinese practice/practiced a broader, older and more common practiced known as "gen (guhn) or meditation (keeping still), for more broad application in life.
I quote, "Gen basically means stilling the mind to the point that you can focus objectively on your innermost desires and needs as well as your surrounding and immediate situation. It is primarily a technique for narrowing the focus of one's thoughts down to the essence of what is uppermost in importance at the time." The objective, to create, achieve and maintain inner peace and to be a more centered person in all of their thoughts. To accomplish this one must calm the mind from all the monkey chatter we experience at most or all times. It is also about conquering the ego so your thoughts and resulting actions are unrestrained, pure and appropriate.
Such practice seems to my mind to be more apropos to our practice today or any practice of a martial system. Even if not directly similar to Zen practice this type seems to address the many times I have personally heard, read or viewed comments and teachings about escaping the ego along with its sometimes resulting price and to achieve enlightenment. It seems that if the truism of the monkey chatter mind is true that this is a more reasonable practice within a martial system such as karate-jutsu-do.
Gen (Ghun) means something like, "Stilling the mind," which presume is possible. I often speak of my response to the question, "What are you thinking about?" with the answer "nothing." In reality when one thinks they are thinking of nothing it is merely that they are not consciously being aware of what it is they are thinking for the mind is in monkey chatter mode a lot when not focused on a task or specific thought.
As can be seen by this short, terse, post on Zen and Gen we begin to realize the importance of studying the cultures and beliefs of a people who create these long-lived practices for this may also have been the precursor to the practice of Japanese Zen. There are a lot of similarities in Asian culture and belief systems and why I believe in this as a part, intricate part, of our practice. It shows that the differences between Japan, Okinawa and China are not all that far apart.
While this practice originated from China, the Chinese practice/practiced a broader, older and more common practiced known as "gen (guhn) or meditation (keeping still), for more broad application in life.
I quote, "Gen basically means stilling the mind to the point that you can focus objectively on your innermost desires and needs as well as your surrounding and immediate situation. It is primarily a technique for narrowing the focus of one's thoughts down to the essence of what is uppermost in importance at the time." The objective, to create, achieve and maintain inner peace and to be a more centered person in all of their thoughts. To accomplish this one must calm the mind from all the monkey chatter we experience at most or all times. It is also about conquering the ego so your thoughts and resulting actions are unrestrained, pure and appropriate.
Such practice seems to my mind to be more apropos to our practice today or any practice of a martial system. Even if not directly similar to Zen practice this type seems to address the many times I have personally heard, read or viewed comments and teachings about escaping the ego along with its sometimes resulting price and to achieve enlightenment. It seems that if the truism of the monkey chatter mind is true that this is a more reasonable practice within a martial system such as karate-jutsu-do.
Gen (Ghun) means something like, "Stilling the mind," which presume is possible. I often speak of my response to the question, "What are you thinking about?" with the answer "nothing." In reality when one thinks they are thinking of nothing it is merely that they are not consciously being aware of what it is they are thinking for the mind is in monkey chatter mode a lot when not focused on a task or specific thought.
As can be seen by this short, terse, post on Zen and Gen we begin to realize the importance of studying the cultures and beliefs of a people who create these long-lived practices for this may also have been the precursor to the practice of Japanese Zen. There are a lot of similarities in Asian culture and belief systems and why I believe in this as a part, intricate part, of our practice. It shows that the differences between Japan, Okinawa and China are not all that far apart.
Budo vs. Sport
Often I read about the differences between Budo and the sport aspect of martial systems. I also read what those defining things are that say one is practicing a budo form or merely a sport form of a martial system like say, "karate." I feel the answer is similar to the one Rory Miller presents when asked what makes a warrior.
A feudal era Japanese samurai quote really explains the difference. "You must concentrate upon and consecrate yourself wholly to each day, as though a fire were raging in your hair." This is believed to contain the essence of what Taisen Deshimaru, a Zen master, means by saying, "To practice Zen, or the martial arts, you must live intensely, wholeheartedly, without reserve - as if you might die in the next instant. Lacking this sort of commitment, Zen becomes mere ritual and the martial arts devolve into mere sport."
Today is not then, it is now. What does this mean when you attempt to describe or classify a system of pugilistic endeavor as either budo or sport? You have to take into the current culture and belief system that you would apply the techniques and spirit of the system. I would take California as my source for it is where I live and is also a sub-culture of the entire Western region called the United States.
In California "fighting" is "illegal." No ifs, and's or but's it is illegal. If you get into a fight you are going to be prosecuted. There are rules and by definition, in my mind that is, once you impose rules your no longer in the realm of budo. I am not talking about self-imposed rules such as you will not take life or you are willing to take life but rather those rules imposed by the society, their culture and their beliefs.
Budo may not be an available definition to any martial system today unless you try to orient that toward the military and then only in combat but is that true budo would be the question as many other factors get involved. One sure fire way is to determine if it is viable and used in actual hand-to-hand combat in a combat zone.
Also, the question begs do you allow it the moniker of budo only after it has been tested in combat, not street fighting cause as said there are imposed rules, and do you apply it to the individual practitioner only after they apply or have applied it in combat?
We can go on and on with this discussion but lets get back to the spirit of budo. That means to my mind fighting be it civilly or militarily. If it is meant to provide adequate techniques and spirit to combat a determined opponent who means to do you grievous harm or even death then it is budo. All other things are mostly governed by "rules" whereby it is "sport."
Now the question, who can say it is actually budo. Again, my view is that it has been proven by someone with the experience that it works then it becomes a matter of when it works for you whereby you personally validate the effectiveness of the system - not once, not twice but at least five separate times it is used effectively in combat, either civilly or militarily.
One more thing, we know that the originally traditional Uchinadee or Okinawa Hand was effective in combative applications but the true question for today is are those then effective applications effective in today's world? You might say yes readily enough but take this one point first before answering, are those techniques viewed today as "legal" in application.
Example: In the military in combat you may shoot and hit the enemy as you advance and it maybe perfectly legal according to articles of war to do one more kill shot as you pass when the enemy is on the ground and apparent not a threat and still be legal. If you use this in a civil situation that extra shot even for a police person could be illegal and prosecuted.
Isn't is great that the best defense in any situation is avoidance closely followed be deescalation? Isn't it great that in the scheme of the yin-yang of life and practice that the effort we put into our practice and training has so many more great personal and societal benefits whereby applying them on the street is mostly not necessary or even required - mostly.
A feudal era Japanese samurai quote really explains the difference. "You must concentrate upon and consecrate yourself wholly to each day, as though a fire were raging in your hair." This is believed to contain the essence of what Taisen Deshimaru, a Zen master, means by saying, "To practice Zen, or the martial arts, you must live intensely, wholeheartedly, without reserve - as if you might die in the next instant. Lacking this sort of commitment, Zen becomes mere ritual and the martial arts devolve into mere sport."
Today is not then, it is now. What does this mean when you attempt to describe or classify a system of pugilistic endeavor as either budo or sport? You have to take into the current culture and belief system that you would apply the techniques and spirit of the system. I would take California as my source for it is where I live and is also a sub-culture of the entire Western region called the United States.
In California "fighting" is "illegal." No ifs, and's or but's it is illegal. If you get into a fight you are going to be prosecuted. There are rules and by definition, in my mind that is, once you impose rules your no longer in the realm of budo. I am not talking about self-imposed rules such as you will not take life or you are willing to take life but rather those rules imposed by the society, their culture and their beliefs.
Budo may not be an available definition to any martial system today unless you try to orient that toward the military and then only in combat but is that true budo would be the question as many other factors get involved. One sure fire way is to determine if it is viable and used in actual hand-to-hand combat in a combat zone.
Also, the question begs do you allow it the moniker of budo only after it has been tested in combat, not street fighting cause as said there are imposed rules, and do you apply it to the individual practitioner only after they apply or have applied it in combat?
We can go on and on with this discussion but lets get back to the spirit of budo. That means to my mind fighting be it civilly or militarily. If it is meant to provide adequate techniques and spirit to combat a determined opponent who means to do you grievous harm or even death then it is budo. All other things are mostly governed by "rules" whereby it is "sport."
Now the question, who can say it is actually budo. Again, my view is that it has been proven by someone with the experience that it works then it becomes a matter of when it works for you whereby you personally validate the effectiveness of the system - not once, not twice but at least five separate times it is used effectively in combat, either civilly or militarily.
One more thing, we know that the originally traditional Uchinadee or Okinawa Hand was effective in combative applications but the true question for today is are those then effective applications effective in today's world? You might say yes readily enough but take this one point first before answering, are those techniques viewed today as "legal" in application.
Example: In the military in combat you may shoot and hit the enemy as you advance and it maybe perfectly legal according to articles of war to do one more kill shot as you pass when the enemy is on the ground and apparent not a threat and still be legal. If you use this in a civil situation that extra shot even for a police person could be illegal and prosecuted.
Isn't is great that the best defense in any situation is avoidance closely followed be deescalation? Isn't it great that in the scheme of the yin-yang of life and practice that the effort we put into our practice and training has so many more great personal and societal benefits whereby applying them on the street is mostly not necessary or even required - mostly.
Fear and Anger - The Descent to Conflict
Give the following quotes some thought and consideration. "In conflict we tend to descend to meet. There is an interpersonal gravitation that tends to pull us down to the level of disrespect for the other person. There is an inclination to stereotype the other. When this happens we talk to each other or past each other, not with each other. ... The exertion of moral force is required to treat the other as a person of worth with whom we will enter into a dialogue as equals."
This leads me to the thought as to our "attitudes" in a more complex way. We tend to fail to recognize that when we disagree with another person's cultural beliefs and values this often degenerates into disrespect. Your "dissing" them. Your dissing their ideas and personhood. This often occurs during a time of strong emotional actions or reactions to some stimuli. It widens the reality gap of communications in lieu of building a bridge across that gap.
This is why it is best to tackle your emotions first and foremost before communications begin. I mean both physical and verbal. Once you gain a return of the logical problem-solving parts of your brain then think about all the above before you create, either intentionally or unintentionally, a reality gap that leads to hostility.
Just one more idea that may give more substance to the art of avoidance resulting in improved mutually beneficial communications.
This leads me to the thought as to our "attitudes" in a more complex way. We tend to fail to recognize that when we disagree with another person's cultural beliefs and values this often degenerates into disrespect. Your "dissing" them. Your dissing their ideas and personhood. This often occurs during a time of strong emotional actions or reactions to some stimuli. It widens the reality gap of communications in lieu of building a bridge across that gap.
This is why it is best to tackle your emotions first and foremost before communications begin. I mean both physical and verbal. Once you gain a return of the logical problem-solving parts of your brain then think about all the above before you create, either intentionally or unintentionally, a reality gap that leads to hostility.
Just one more idea that may give more substance to the art of avoidance resulting in improved mutually beneficial communications.
Balance is Not Achievable
Often I posted that the true ultimate meaning of it all is to find "balance." I have since come to the conclusion that balance is not ultimately possible but one can achieve a level of balance within a certain spectrum of the yin-yang that promotes peace, tranquility and ultimately enlightenment with all that comes with that level of achievement in life.
An entity is always dominated by an either yin or a yang phenomena, being or thing. It is a matter of nature, the universe, the rules of the way. That tendency is what makes things go round so to speak. This speaks of continuous change, changes within are changes in the quality, quantity, or structure of its constituent yin and yang elements. Thus it is virtually impossible to be both yin and yang at the same time ergo the constant tendency to fluctuate from one end of that spectrum and the other with a seed of the other remaining within.
So it comes to my mind that what we should seek is a balance of the fluctuating of our yin and yang to a zone that allows natural and nature to continue its tendency to oscillate between being yin and being yang. To achieve minimal movement from one to the other seems the ultimate meaning of all it is to follow the path. Let my graphic demonstrate that zone.
If we can truly remain in this zone, area, then we can achieve better health and well being. We create a way to achieve many things, this is our goal, the way, our ultimate meaning of life.
An entity is always dominated by an either yin or a yang phenomena, being or thing. It is a matter of nature, the universe, the rules of the way. That tendency is what makes things go round so to speak. This speaks of continuous change, changes within are changes in the quality, quantity, or structure of its constituent yin and yang elements. Thus it is virtually impossible to be both yin and yang at the same time ergo the constant tendency to fluctuate from one end of that spectrum and the other with a seed of the other remaining within.
So it comes to my mind that what we should seek is a balance of the fluctuating of our yin and yang to a zone that allows natural and nature to continue its tendency to oscillate between being yin and being yang. To achieve minimal movement from one to the other seems the ultimate meaning of all it is to follow the path. Let my graphic demonstrate that zone.
Jiro Dreams of Sushi
Today I watched a trailer and clip of this documentary. I see a great lesson in them and it inspires me to watch the entire movie when it opens March 9, 2012. I would recommend that all martial artists watch it for within it and Jiro-san's comments and actions and attitudes we will recognize the ultimate goal of our practice - attitude, and more .....
The Looking Glass God - Shinto, Yin-Yang, Cosmology
Bibliography (Heaven):
Stiskin, Nahum. "The Looking Glass God: Shinto, Yin Yang, and a Cosmology for Today." Weatherhill. New York. 1972.
Normally a bibliography is presented to the reader at the end of the publication but today I place it front and foremost to achieve a place of importance for this posting. If the question, "Why?," is then presented one can achieve the level of the answer as paramount toward "action" whereby action is "to purchase a copy of this book."
When I read what I perceive as an important publication I have both highlighter and pen in hand. I mark and hilite words, sentences and those parts that tend to speak to my cultural beliefs with specificity toward particular subjects, i.e. martial arts, etc. I did not do so in the case of this particular publication, book. I sensed in the first couple of pages a "need" to read it frequently therefore to hilite or mark the pages would distract my repeated readings and therefore my repeated attempts at full understanding of the depth and breadth of this terse tome on the aspects of Shinto.
Bibliography (Humans):
Stiskin, Nahum. "The Looking Glass God: Shinto, Yin Yang, and a Cosmology for Today." Weatherhill. New York. 1972.
Since I began with an idea I would expand my understanding of the concepts for yin-yang and Shinto I soon realized that it is much more. I find it applies to life first and all others as secondary or with a connectedness to "life." I believe the reader with an open-mind and proper attitude will gain a plathora of knowledge and understanding whereby they will become aware of the mirrors that encompass the way we live life, the way we practice and the way we train - and all that encompasses, includes and blends.
Therefore, after only "one reading" I can truly say that this publication has far exceeded my needs, desires and thirst for more in my way of living, way of learning and way of teaching. I look forward to returning to the very first page, after this post, and beginning once again. I see the need to come full circle many times, like the many lives of humans, to gain more momentum toward enlightenment.
Bibliography (Earth):
Stiskin, Nahum. "The Looking Glass God: Shinto, Yin Yang, and a Cosmology for Today." Weatherhill. New York. 1972.
Stiskin, Nahum. "The Looking Glass God: Shinto, Yin Yang, and a Cosmology for Today." Weatherhill. New York. 1972.
Normally a bibliography is presented to the reader at the end of the publication but today I place it front and foremost to achieve a place of importance for this posting. If the question, "Why?," is then presented one can achieve the level of the answer as paramount toward "action" whereby action is "to purchase a copy of this book."
When I read what I perceive as an important publication I have both highlighter and pen in hand. I mark and hilite words, sentences and those parts that tend to speak to my cultural beliefs with specificity toward particular subjects, i.e. martial arts, etc. I did not do so in the case of this particular publication, book. I sensed in the first couple of pages a "need" to read it frequently therefore to hilite or mark the pages would distract my repeated readings and therefore my repeated attempts at full understanding of the depth and breadth of this terse tome on the aspects of Shinto.
Bibliography (Humans):
Stiskin, Nahum. "The Looking Glass God: Shinto, Yin Yang, and a Cosmology for Today." Weatherhill. New York. 1972.
Since I began with an idea I would expand my understanding of the concepts for yin-yang and Shinto I soon realized that it is much more. I find it applies to life first and all others as secondary or with a connectedness to "life." I believe the reader with an open-mind and proper attitude will gain a plathora of knowledge and understanding whereby they will become aware of the mirrors that encompass the way we live life, the way we practice and the way we train - and all that encompasses, includes and blends.
Therefore, after only "one reading" I can truly say that this publication has far exceeded my needs, desires and thirst for more in my way of living, way of learning and way of teaching. I look forward to returning to the very first page, after this post, and beginning once again. I see the need to come full circle many times, like the many lives of humans, to gain more momentum toward enlightenment.
Bibliography (Earth):
Stiskin, Nahum. "The Looking Glass God: Shinto, Yin Yang, and a Cosmology for Today." Weatherhill. New York. 1972.
Uchinaguchi - Okinawan Dialect
The Okinawan dialect or language spoken has come close to extinction. There is a few who are working diligently to bring this cultural language back into some form that will allow it to be taught so it is not lost. My experience with it is very, very limited as to karate terms.
Recently as I viewed a clip from Okinawa on karate culture and history two new terms came to my attention worth mentioning.
First, Uchinadee: Uchina means Okinawa in Uchina-guchi, the Okinawan language. Naturally, before karate was Chinese hand (Tang’s hand) or the empty hand, it was Uchina-dee (also written Uchina-di/Uchina-te/Uchina-ti), the hand of Okinawa. We tried to stay closed to the local pronunciation in using this spelling.
Second, Kancho: While sensei means the one who lives/ was born (sei) before (sen), kancho means the head (cho) of the hall (kan).
This reminds me of the trouble naming the tuifa or what some call the tonfaa. The first is Oki and the second Japanese, I think :-} I look forward to learning more of the terms and language of karate that is truly Okinawan.
Bibliography:
Okinawa Traditional Karate. "The Land of Karate, episode one." http://okkb.org/?page_id=1159
Recently as I viewed a clip from Okinawa on karate culture and history two new terms came to my attention worth mentioning.
First, Uchinadee: Uchina means Okinawa in Uchina-guchi, the Okinawan language. Naturally, before karate was Chinese hand (Tang’s hand) or the empty hand, it was Uchina-dee (also written Uchina-di/Uchina-te/Uchina-ti), the hand of Okinawa. We tried to stay closed to the local pronunciation in using this spelling.
Second, Kancho: While sensei means the one who lives/ was born (sei) before (sen), kancho means the head (cho) of the hall (kan).
This reminds me of the trouble naming the tuifa or what some call the tonfaa. The first is Oki and the second Japanese, I think :-} I look forward to learning more of the terms and language of karate that is truly Okinawan.
Bibliography:
Okinawa Traditional Karate. "The Land of Karate, episode one." http://okkb.org/?page_id=1159
Anger and Fear
When we are angry or fearful, our adrenaline flows faster and our strength increased by about 20 percent. the liver, pumping sugar into the bloodstream, demand more oxygen from the heart and lungs. The veins become enlarged and the cortical centers where thinking takes place do not perform nearly as well. The blood supply to the problem-solving part of the brain is severely decreased because, under the stress a greater portion of blood is diverted to the body's extremities.
"This is an emotional condition that the person is in, and it means that, while he's beautifully equipped for a brawl, he's very poorly equipped to get a problem solved." - George Odiorne.
In conflict resolution, the first goal is to deal constructively with the emotions. Dealing with the emotional tension of conflict. If unable to bring the emotions, the monkey, back under control or abated then your just going to get into the hostility-loop until such time as blows are thrown. Such a simple concept that tends to be the most difficult to train properly simply because of human survival traits.
Emotional training is something that can be achieved by the daily practice of recognition. To recognize when emotions begin to rise up to whatever occasion and recognize the need to pull it back. But how? The answer is to breathe properly. Slow, deep, diaphragmatic breathing. This process triggers those "opposite" chemicals that will rein in the one's started by the emotional trigger so you can get the logical problem solving parts free from the emotional effects.
Bibliography:
Stiskin, Nahum. "The Looking Glass God: Shinto, Yin Yang, and a Cosmology for Today." Weatherhill. New York. 1972.
"This is an emotional condition that the person is in, and it means that, while he's beautifully equipped for a brawl, he's very poorly equipped to get a problem solved." - George Odiorne.
In conflict resolution, the first goal is to deal constructively with the emotions. Dealing with the emotional tension of conflict. If unable to bring the emotions, the monkey, back under control or abated then your just going to get into the hostility-loop until such time as blows are thrown. Such a simple concept that tends to be the most difficult to train properly simply because of human survival traits.
Emotional training is something that can be achieved by the daily practice of recognition. To recognize when emotions begin to rise up to whatever occasion and recognize the need to pull it back. But how? The answer is to breathe properly. Slow, deep, diaphragmatic breathing. This process triggers those "opposite" chemicals that will rein in the one's started by the emotional trigger so you can get the logical problem solving parts free from the emotional effects.
Bibliography:
Stiskin, Nahum. "The Looking Glass God: Shinto, Yin Yang, and a Cosmology for Today." Weatherhill. New York. 1972.
Understanding the Culture of Martial Arts - continued
In my continuing search for understanding to apply it toward correct attitude in my practice and teaching I have discovered that the "tomoe" you see here has additional symbolism as to the three "tadpole" like shapes that make up the center section.
In Japan their shintoist beliefs promote the concept and symbols of the "Three Jewels" being the "sword," the "jewel," and the "mirror." The sword can be symbolic of human's as to the bodies sword represented by the spinal column with the hilt at the base of the skull and the point at the opposite end.
As to the tomoe we are to understand that the jewel is shaped in the same form, a spiralic structure. It is the fundamental structure of creation and a representation of it in humans is a picture of the human fetus at its earliest stage of human being. This particular graphic in Japanese culture is representative intertwined magatama or is better explained and known to represent/symbolize "three-soul" also referred to as the "mitsu-domoe." In the book below it goes into details as to this symbolization of the tomoe and three-soul concept (or the human-soul).
The last is the "mirror" which is the most sacred and referred to as the "looking-glass God." The qualities and properties of the mirror both actual and metaphysical are to great to get into for this post but I would say it to be most enlightening and well worth the effort to get and read this fine book.
Why? Because the more I dig the more I find our martial arts are touched by the "shintoistic" influences the permeate the Japanese culture which would also touch Okinawa and are all derived from the touch of the Chinese culture, beliefs and experiences.
In Japan their shintoist beliefs promote the concept and symbols of the "Three Jewels" being the "sword," the "jewel," and the "mirror." The sword can be symbolic of human's as to the bodies sword represented by the spinal column with the hilt at the base of the skull and the point at the opposite end.
As to the tomoe we are to understand that the jewel is shaped in the same form, a spiralic structure. It is the fundamental structure of creation and a representation of it in humans is a picture of the human fetus at its earliest stage of human being. This particular graphic in Japanese culture is representative intertwined magatama or is better explained and known to represent/symbolize "three-soul" also referred to as the "mitsu-domoe." In the book below it goes into details as to this symbolization of the tomoe and three-soul concept (or the human-soul).
The last is the "mirror" which is the most sacred and referred to as the "looking-glass God." The qualities and properties of the mirror both actual and metaphysical are to great to get into for this post but I would say it to be most enlightening and well worth the effort to get and read this fine book.
Why? Because the more I dig the more I find our martial arts are touched by the "shintoistic" influences the permeate the Japanese culture which would also touch Okinawa and are all derived from the touch of the Chinese culture, beliefs and experiences.
Black Belt Subversion
Open-mind required, if your going to get miffed or upset by this post then stop here and leave to await the next article. This is about my personal feelings toward the black belt today which is not meant to imply that all systems, all dojo or all Sensei use the system in this manner or with the implied intent, etc.
When I decided to write this post I meant it to infer that the black belt of today's Western Martial Systems is one that lacks the integrity Kano Jigoro Sensei may have meant to instill in its usage and award in the late 1800's/early 1900's. The structure and meaning of the belt system which includes at its highest levels the coveted black belt to my mind has come to be corrupted into something it is not.
The establishment of the system was such that it didn't survive the tsunami that came about from its exposure to the military presence in Japan and Okinawa starting in the fifties through current use today. It took on a power of its own through a lack of understanding toward the culture and beliefs that caused it to be created and incorporated in Judo.
Due to an implied structure toward "power, authority, servitude, hierarchical and exploitive" this system became a means to achieve through circumvention of the traditional system of training and practice quick egoistic and prideful self-building grandiose dogmatic beliefs and culture. Note that is feeling is not indicative of all martial systems both Eastern and Western.
I speak/write in a very general way on this black belt subversion I perceive. There are many who have taken the use of the dan-e system back to a more traditional method that Kano Sensei may have intended. The difficulty in this as to both ways, traditional and subverted, it is hard to determine what the original intent was since Kano Sensei may not have documented it enough because in Japan, at that time and still today, Sensei tend to assume Japanese will perceive indirectly, i.e. not by spoken word but intuitively, what was meant for the dan-i system Kano Sensei created.
It has become difficult for the uninitiated or ill-informed to "see" the true symbolism that is represented by the black belt, the kuro-obi. I blame ourselves for our hurried excitement to achieve that coveted black belt quickly vs. through the slow diligent process. We "think" we have returned to it by the mere ideology that because a commercialized way of reaching a black belt over six or seven years we have achieved the true meaning but we may have missed the boat entirely.
Adding minimal time in grade, a military trait/process, along with criteria that originally did not come with martial system training and practice have added time that when truly analyzed ends up being much shorter than a date on a calendar. I feel it is a dedicated martial artists who spends hours a day vs. one who spends a couple of hours a week often sporadically that truly exemplifies a black belt vs. a product of a commercial endeavor.
In my view the black belt tends to be that symbol that has individualized meaning in today's martial communities, Asian and Western. It depends now on the culture, beliefs and perceptions of those individuals whereby the ones provided via second-person validation tends to take it in arena's that may or may not be conducive to its traditional origins and into a realm of money, power and servitude. One serves the master through a perception of authority, power and in the end "money."
I have encountered both, the few who if they presented me a black belt would have meaning and great significance in my mind while others who would present me one would only do so after I wrote a check and played some sort of certification game that is theirs and seldom acceptable to any or all others without first being certified by that system, etc.
It begs me to ask myself, can a black belt return to its origins? I believe it can and has already achieved a lot in that regard. There are those out there who are becoming more the "norm" vs. the others less inclined and that movement is meaningful and I consider authentic and traditionally valid. I have much greater hopes that this trend will continue. These are the folks who have achieved a balance between economic survival and adherence to a traditional form that speaks volumes to the coveted black belt once presented, earned and worn with dignity well earned. An oxymoron maybe when you perceive the more "Shintoist/Confucianist/Buddhist base of martial systems but we are human.
When I decided to write this post I meant it to infer that the black belt of today's Western Martial Systems is one that lacks the integrity Kano Jigoro Sensei may have meant to instill in its usage and award in the late 1800's/early 1900's. The structure and meaning of the belt system which includes at its highest levels the coveted black belt to my mind has come to be corrupted into something it is not.
The establishment of the system was such that it didn't survive the tsunami that came about from its exposure to the military presence in Japan and Okinawa starting in the fifties through current use today. It took on a power of its own through a lack of understanding toward the culture and beliefs that caused it to be created and incorporated in Judo.
Due to an implied structure toward "power, authority, servitude, hierarchical and exploitive" this system became a means to achieve through circumvention of the traditional system of training and practice quick egoistic and prideful self-building grandiose dogmatic beliefs and culture. Note that is feeling is not indicative of all martial systems both Eastern and Western.
I speak/write in a very general way on this black belt subversion I perceive. There are many who have taken the use of the dan-e system back to a more traditional method that Kano Sensei may have intended. The difficulty in this as to both ways, traditional and subverted, it is hard to determine what the original intent was since Kano Sensei may not have documented it enough because in Japan, at that time and still today, Sensei tend to assume Japanese will perceive indirectly, i.e. not by spoken word but intuitively, what was meant for the dan-i system Kano Sensei created.
It has become difficult for the uninitiated or ill-informed to "see" the true symbolism that is represented by the black belt, the kuro-obi. I blame ourselves for our hurried excitement to achieve that coveted black belt quickly vs. through the slow diligent process. We "think" we have returned to it by the mere ideology that because a commercialized way of reaching a black belt over six or seven years we have achieved the true meaning but we may have missed the boat entirely.
Adding minimal time in grade, a military trait/process, along with criteria that originally did not come with martial system training and practice have added time that when truly analyzed ends up being much shorter than a date on a calendar. I feel it is a dedicated martial artists who spends hours a day vs. one who spends a couple of hours a week often sporadically that truly exemplifies a black belt vs. a product of a commercial endeavor.
In my view the black belt tends to be that symbol that has individualized meaning in today's martial communities, Asian and Western. It depends now on the culture, beliefs and perceptions of those individuals whereby the ones provided via second-person validation tends to take it in arena's that may or may not be conducive to its traditional origins and into a realm of money, power and servitude. One serves the master through a perception of authority, power and in the end "money."
I have encountered both, the few who if they presented me a black belt would have meaning and great significance in my mind while others who would present me one would only do so after I wrote a check and played some sort of certification game that is theirs and seldom acceptable to any or all others without first being certified by that system, etc.
It begs me to ask myself, can a black belt return to its origins? I believe it can and has already achieved a lot in that regard. There are those out there who are becoming more the "norm" vs. the others less inclined and that movement is meaningful and I consider authentic and traditionally valid. I have much greater hopes that this trend will continue. These are the folks who have achieved a balance between economic survival and adherence to a traditional form that speaks volumes to the coveted black belt once presented, earned and worn with dignity well earned. An oxymoron maybe when you perceive the more "Shintoist/Confucianist/Buddhist base of martial systems but we are human.
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