In the hallowed path of martial arts, the journey has always been as significant, if not more, than the destination. While the art form inherently pitches the practitioner against an opponent, it is imperative to understand that the true adversary lies within. The external opponent is a mirror, reflecting our strengths, weaknesses, fears, and aspirations.
Regrettably, in today's fast-paced world, the essence of martial arts as a path of self-betterment often becomes overshadowed. Many students become enamored with ranks and victory, with technique taking precedence over the underlying philosophy. They become so engrossed in the act of defeating their opponent or rising in ranks that they forget the ground they tread upon, a path that not only refines one's martial skills but also offers a blueprint for a fulfilling and honorable life.
Disturbingly, this external focus sometimes takes a darker turn. Instances of bullying, gossip, and unwarranted campaigns against fellow practitioners are not just a disservice to the art but also to one's own spirit. Such behavior, far removed from the tenets of respect and humility, creates tumultuous storms that affect not just the individual but the entire martial community. The reverberations of such actions not only tarnish the reputation of their mentors, who have dedicated their lives to imparting wisdom and discipline, but also inflict deep scars, both mental and physical, on those targeted.
It is worth pondering: If martial arts teach us control, discipline, and respect, how can a true martial artist engage in behavior that directly contradicts these principles? Every act of malice or deceit is a step away from the true path of martial arts, which is rooted in self-improvement and mutual respect.
As guardians of these ancient traditions, it is our duty to remind our students that every technique learned, every spar engaged in, is an opportunity for introspection and growth. The real victory in martial arts is not over an external opponent but over one's own shortcomings and vices. Let us strive to walk this path with honor and, in doing so, uplift ourselves and those around us.
The essence and purpose of martial arts have often been subjects of contemplation, especially when juxtaposed against their origins in combat. One may naturally ask: How can an art form rooted in warfare lead to personal enlightenment and self-betterment? To understand this, we must look into the history and evolution of martial arts, particularly in the context of Japan.
While martial arts and the arts of war may share a common ancestry, their paths and purposes have diverged significantly over the centuries. In Japan, the practice of martial arts, known as 'bujutsu,' is derived from 'senjutsu' and 'heihō,' the more comprehensive arts of war. However, the intent behind their study and application differs markedly. Senjutsu was primarily developed for the practicalities of battle, emphasizing strategies, tactics, and techniques tailored for warfare. Bujutsu, on the other hand, evolved as a more refined and philosophical practice aimed at physical prowess and mental and spiritual growth.
In the modern era, it is crucial for practitioners to recognize and appreciate this distinction. While the lineage of many martial arts may be traced back through centuries, claiming to be "unbroken," it is a misinterpretation to believe that these arts are solely or primarily about combat and warfare. The modern practice of martial arts, in essence, is about mastery over oneself, discipline, respect, and the relentless pursuit of self-improvement.
Moreover, a tendency exists to romanticize the past, even when looking a century back. For example, in 1923, we have the Lon Chaney film The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Chaplin's The Pilgrim. "The Prophet" by Kahlil Gibran was also published. That wasn't that long ago, yet many today look at that time with a skewed perspective.
We must be wary of such idealizations. Martial arts of bygone eras, while undoubtedly possessing their own unique merits and attributes, were also products of their times, influenced by the socio-political and cultural contexts in which they were practiced.
In conclusion, while the roots of martial arts may be entrenched in combat, their growth and evolution have been towards the holistic development of the individual. As martial artists, we must honor this legacy by focusing on our self-betterment, embodying the principles of respect, discipline, and continuous reflection, and ensuring that the true essence of our art is preserved and propagated for future generations.
Traditions such as Zen and Confucianism are intricacies deeply interwoven in Japanese martial arts. To truly understand and appreciate these arts, it is essential to recognize the profound influence of these philosophies, which have been integral since the inception of martial practices in Japan.
Zen, emphasizing self-enlightenment, provides a foundation for the mental and spiritual aspects of martial arts. At its core, Zen teaches the practitioner to transcend the ego, fostering a state of mind where clarity and mindfulness prevail. This mental clarity is paramount in martial arts, enabling the practitioner to respond instinctively and effectively, free from the burdens of doubt or hesitation.
Confucianism, on the other hand, places the individual within the larger framework of society. It emphasizes harmony, respect, and the interconnectedness of all beings. In the context of martial arts, this philosophy teaches the practitioner to hone individual skills and understand their role and responsibility within the broader community. Respect for the teacher, fellow practitioners, and the art itself is deeply rooted in these Confucian ideals.
It is also crucial to acknowledge that Japanese martial arts founders and early teachers were not isolated from the prevailing cultural and philosophical milieu. Buddhism and Confucianism were not just abstract concepts; they permeated daily life and influenced thought, behavior, and societal norms. These martial pioneers, therefore, naturally infused their teachings with the essence of these philosophies.
By the 5th century, the winds from Korea and China brought to the shores of Japan the seeds of Confucianism. It was through the introduction of the Chinese writing system and its literature that Japan first glimpsed Confucian ideals.
During the Heian era (794-1185), although Confucianism was acknowledged, it did not hold a strong influence over the intellectual or political realm. Instead, the imperial court and aristocracy were enamored by the beauty of Chinese literature and poetry, as well as the deep wisdom of Buddhism.
As the samurai class etched their mark on Japan's history,
in the Kamakura and Muromachi Periods (1185-1573), Confucian values concerning loyalty and the revered relationships between ruler and subject, parent and child, found fertile ground. This period also witnessed the emergence of Neo-Confucianism, a melding of Confucian thought with Buddhist and Daoist philosophies.
The Edo epoch (1603-1868) is a testament to the zenith of Confucian influence in Japan. The reigning Tokugawa shogunate embraced Neo-Confucianism as the cornerstone of its governance, emphasizing the societal hierarchy and virtues of duty, loyalty, and righteous conduct. During this time, the "Four Classes" system, rooted in Neo-Confucian principles, became firmly established, with the samurai class receiving an education steeped in Confucian classics.
Ever curious and seeking wisdom, Japan saw its scholars journey to China, returning with varied interpretations of Confucian thought. The Zhu Xi (or Shushigaku) and Wang Yangming (Oyōmeigaku) schools stood out among these. While Shushigaku urged the study of ancient texts to grasp universal truths, Oyōmeigaku championed intuitive understanding and the importance of moral deeds.
Confucianism, with its teachings on order, duty, and loyalty, found resonance in Japan's feudal fabric, particularly during the Edo period. Yet, as Japan stepped onto the path of modernity, the shadows of Confucianism grew fainter, making way for newer ideals and philosophies. Still, its indelible mark on Japan's moral and intellectual foundation remains a testament to its enduring legacy.
In the modern era, any attempt to extricate martial arts from these philosophical underpinnings does a grave disservice to the art. It reduces the practice to mere physicality, devoid of its rich spiritual and ethical dimensions. Authentic martial arts are not just about ranks, techniques, kicks, or strikes. It is about the individual's holistic development – physically, mentally, and spiritually. Should your teacher not be engaged in this endeavor and put emphasis instead on techniques, ranks, or competitions, then you should question the values and principles upheld in that particular school.
Thus, being an excellent martial artist transcends technical proficiency. It demands a deeper understanding and embodiment of the principles and philosophies that form the bedrock of the art. It is about achieving balance, understanding oneself, respecting others, and contributing positively to the larger community. In essence, the journey of a martial artist is both an internal voyage of self-discovery and an external journey of service and harmony.
©2023 S.F.Radzikowski