Okinawan Fighting Art "Ti": Principal of Philosophy

When you begin to feel like you are a tough guy, a warrior, a master of the martial arts or that you have lived a tough life, just take a moment and get some perspective with the following:

I've stopped knives that were coming to disembowel me

I've clawed for my gun while bullets ripped past me

I've dodged as someone tried to put an ax in my skull

I've fought screaming steel and left rubber on the road to avoid death

I've clawed broken glass out of my body after their opening attack failed

I've spit blood and body parts and broke strangle holds before gouging eyes

I've charged into fires, fought through blizzards and run from tornados

I've survived being hunted by gangs, killers and contract killers

The streets were my home, I hunted in the night and was hunted in turn

Please don't brag to me that you're a survivor because someone hit you. And don't tell me how 'tough' you are because of your training. As much as I've been through I know people who have survived much, much worse. - Marc MacYoung

WARNING, CAVEAT AND NOTE

The postings on this blog are my interpretation of readings, studies and experiences therefore errors and omissions are mine and mine alone. The content surrounding the extracts of books, see bibliography on this blog site, are also mine and mine alone therefore errors and omissions are also mine and mine alone and therefore why I highly recommended one read, study, research and fact find the material for clarity. My effort here is self-clarity toward a fuller understanding of the subject matter. See the bibliography for information on the books. Please make note that this article/post is my personal analysis of the subject and the information used was chosen or picked by me. It is not an analysis piece because it lacks complete and comprehensive research, it was not adequately and completely investigated and it is not balanced, i.e., it is my personal view without the views of others including subject experts, etc. Look at this as “Infotainment rather then expert research.” This is an opinion/editorial article/post meant to persuade the reader to think, decide and accept or reject my premise. It is an attempt to cause change or reinforce attitudes, beliefs and values as they apply to martial arts and/or self-defense. It is merely a commentary on the subject in the particular article presented.

Note: I will endevor to provide a bibliography and italicize any direct quotes from the materials I use for this blog. If there are mistakes, errors, and/or omissions, I take full responsibility for them as they are mine and mine alone. If you find any mistakes, errors, and/or omissions please comment and let me know along with the correct information and/or sources.

“What you are reading right now is a blog. It’s written and posted by me, because I want to. I get no financial remuneration for writing it. I don’t have to meet anyone’s criteria in order to post it. Not only I don’t have an employer or publisher, but I’m not even constrained by having to please an audience. If people won’t like it, they won’t read it, but I won’t lose anything by it. Provided I don’t break any laws (libel, incitement to violence, etc.), I can post whatever I want. This means that I can write openly and honestly, however controversial my opinions may be. It also means that I could write total bullshit; there is no quality control. I could be biased. I could be insane. I could be trolling. … not all sources are equivalent, and all sources have their pros and cons. These needs to be taken into account when evaluating information, and all information should be evaluated.” - God’s Bastard, Sourcing Sources (this applies to this and other blogs by me as well; if you follow the idea's, advice or information you are on your own, don't come crying to me, it is all on you do do the work to make sure it works for you!)

“You should prepare yourself to dedicate at least five or six years to your training and practice to understand the philosophy and physiokinetics of martial arts and karate so that you can understand the true spirit of everything and dedicate your mind, body and spirit to the discipline of the art.” - cejames (note: you are on your own, make sure you get expert hands-on guidance in all things martial and self-defense)

“All I say is by way of discourse, and nothing by way of advice. I should not speak so boldly if it were my due to be believed.” - Montaigne

I am not a leading authority on any one discipline that I write about and teach, it is my hope and wish that with all the subjects I have studied it provides me an advantage point that I offer in as clear and cohesive writings as possible in introducing the matters in my materials. I hope to serve as one who inspires direction in the practitioner so they can go on to discover greater teachers and professionals that will build on this fundamental foundation. Find the authorities and synthesize a wholehearted and holistic concept, perception and belief that will not drive your practices but rather inspire them to evolve, grow and prosper. My efforts are born of those who are more experienced and knowledgable than I. I hope you find that path! See the bibliography I provide for an initial list of experts, professionals and masters of the subjects.

Principal of Philosophy

Tetsugaku no kōchō [哲学の校長] - CEJames & Alfonz Ingram

Isshinryu (一心流), meaning “One Heart Style,” is an Okinawan karate system founded by Tatsuo Shimabuku in 1956. Its philosophy blends Okinawan martial traditions, Zen-like simplicity, and pragmatic self-defense applications. The principle of Isshinryu’s philosophy is deeply rooted in efficiency, adaptability, and the unity of mind, body, and spirit.

1. Core Philosophical Principles of Isshinryu

Isshinryu’s philosophy is guided by its name, kata (forms), training methodology, and guiding maxims.

A. Meaning of Isshinryu (一心流) – The “One Heart” Philosophy

The name Isshinryu translates to “One Heart Style”, symbolizing:

1. Unification of mind, body, and spirit (一: “One” 心: “Heart/Mind”)

2. Simplicity and directness in action

3. Commitment to unwavering determination and focus

Shimabuku believed that true karate must be practical, direct, and efficient—both in combat and in the way it cultivates the human spirit.

B. Efficiency and Practicality in Technique

• Isshinryu emphasizes natural stances and economy of motion.

• Unlike many traditional Okinawan styles, Isshinryu uses a vertical fist punch, which is structurally stronger and faster.

• Shorter, circular movements are favored over elaborate techniques.

C. Karate as a Way of Life

Shimabuku viewed Isshinryu not just as a combat art but as a way of life, requiring constant refinement of character, humility, and perseverance.

• He famously stated:

“All things begin with one.”

• This reflects the Zen-like idea of simplicity, where one must return to the fundamentals in both practice and mindset.

2. The Isshinryu Code (Kenpo Gokui)

Isshinryu is guided by a philosophical code known as the Kenpo Gokui (拳法極意), or the “Essential Principles of Karate.” These eight maxims, passed down from Okinawan masters, embody both the martial and philosophical aspects of the art:

1. A person’s heart is the same as heaven and earth.

• This refers to maintaining balance and harmony between the physical and spiritual realms.

• One must be adaptable like nature, neither overly aggressive nor passive.

2. The blood circulating is similar to the moon and the sun.

• A metaphor for rhythm, energy flow (Ki), and internal balance.

• Reflects the Taoist and Yin-Yang concept of duality and balance.

3. The manner of drinking and spitting is either hard or soft.

• Represents Go (hard) and Ju (soft) principles in technique.

• A strike can be explosive, yet a block or redirection can be yielding.

4. A person’s unbalance is the same as a weight.

• Stability in karate equals stability in life—a strong stance is both physical and mental.

5. The body should be able to change direction at any time.

• One must be adaptable and flexible, in combat and in facing life’s challenges.

6. The time to strike is when the opportunity presents itself.

• Situational awareness and decisive action are crucial for self-defense.

7. The eye must see all sides.

• Zanshin (awareness): always be alert to threats and surroundings.

8. The ear must listen in all directions.

• Awareness extends beyond vision to intuition, perception, and understanding of one’s environment.

These maxims emphasize self-awareness, adaptability, and fluidity, echoing Zen and Taoist influences in Okinawan martial thought.

3. The Influence of Zen and Budo in Isshinryu

A. Zen (禅) and Mushin (無心)

• Zen simplicity is evident in Isshinryu’s streamlined techniques and “no wasted movement” philosophy.

• The concept of Mushin (無心, “No-Mind”)—reacting instinctively without hesitation—is crucial in combat.

B. The Budo Spirit (武道)

• Budo emphasizes karate as a path of self-discipline and moral responsibility.

• Shimabuku incorporated Bushido ethics, requiring respect, humility, and continuous self-improvement.

4. Isshinryu’s Approach to Self-Defense and Adaptability

A. Practical Self-Defense

• Isshinryu was developed for real-world combat effectiveness, not sport.

• Techniques are direct, efficient, and adaptable to unpredictable situations.

• Shimabuku modernized techniques, making them more effective for street defense.

B. Adaptability in Combat and Life

• Isshinryu practitioners are trained to read situations and adjust strategies accordingly.

• The system is designed to evolve with the practitioner, encouraging personal growth.

5. The Isshinryu Megami (Goddess) Symbolism

The Isshinryu Megami, or “Sea Goddess,” is a unique emblem representing the style.

• She holds a dragon and a thunderbolt, symbolizing power and wisdom.

• She embodies the duality of hard and soft, balance in combat and in life.

This mythological and philosophical symbolism reinforces Isshinryu’s core themes of adaptability, awareness, and harmony.

6. Conclusion: The Essence of Isshinryu’s Philosophy

At its heart, Isshinryu is about efficiency, simplicity, and adaptability—both in martial practice and in life. Its philosophy teaches:

• The unity of mind, body, and spirit (“One Heart”)

• Balance between hardness and softness

• Awareness and adaptability

• A lifelong journey of self-discipline and improvement

Shimabuku’s legacy lives on through practitioners who not only learn to fight but also embody the deeper philosophy of Isshinryu in their daily lives.

References & Further Reading

1. “Okinawan Karate: Teachers, Styles and Secret Techniques” – Mark Bishop

2. “The Essence of Okinawan Karate-Do” – Shoshin Nagamine

3. “Isshinryu Karate: The One Heart Way” – Sherman Harrill

4. “Tatsuo Shimabuku and the Isshinryu Tradition” – Advincula, Donnelly

5. “Bubishi: The Classic Manual of Combat” – Patrick McCarthy