Words of Wisdom | Print |
Some words of wisdom that are commonly used at our dojo

Karate ni Sentinashi

A basic but fundamental part of karate it means the karateka must never attack first, neither mentally nor physically. To understand this fully years of hard, correct training are needed.

As the karateka grows in stature so also will his good manners and ettiquette, inwardly and outwardly.

Maxims of the Samurai

One or more of these maxims can cause a warrior to lose a battle:

Kikioji --- Being afraid of an enemy because of their reputation.

Mikuzure --- Being afraid of an enemy because they look fierce or strong.

Futanren --- Inadequate training


Su-Ha-Ri

Su --- Indicates a beginner must learn and copy all karate from his/her instructor.

Ha --- Means that after many years of training, once he/she has reached black belt, he/she may develop his/her own techniques as long as the basic techniques are not violated.

Ri --- This is the highest form: It means that after a longer period of training than the Ha, the karate-ka must be able to perform all forms of karate automatically, not stopping to think about his/her moves.

Mokuteki

The purpose of the Wado system of karate at any Dojo is to teach the Japanese martial arts, the spiritual attitude, tradition and culture regarding the tenets and Dojo ethics.

Dojo Kun

Most dojo's have a different set of rules or maxims for the dojo. Here is ours:

Reisetsu o mamori
Stick to the rules of the dojo.
Shingi o omanji
Be loyal to your instructor.
Jojitsu ni oberesu
Students and instructors are not all one.
Shinkemni ni tessyo
Be serious in your efforts.

Sosusukan

Training of the mind, a preliminary stage of mokuso.

Mokuso

Mokuso is literally, emptying the mind of thoughts. It is part of the training of the mind called mushin which comes from Zen Buddhism. If the body is tense it is wasting effort and restricting speed. It is essential to move without being concious of it - that feeling is called Mushin

Sen no Sen, Sen, Go no Sen

Sen Sen No Sen - (Superior initiatory)
 In this situation both you and your opponent are ready and willing to attack. Your attack must be made first in a spilt second between the time your opponent mentally commits to the attack and the moment he begins his actual movement. His commitment to attack will prevent him responding with a defence.
Sen - (Initiatory)
 In Sen you and your opponent begin to move simultaneously. Your awareness of his intention to attack allows you to attack just slightly faster, making your strike just before his.
Go No Sen - (Initiatory of defence)
 You must remain calm and watch your opponent very carefully. Your block should be an automatic response to his attack and you should attack him before he is able to recover from his initial movement.