Niju Kun - The twenty guiding principles of Karate
The
first thing everyone knows about martial arts is that the practice has deep
roots in respectful conduct. Founder of Shotokan Karate, Gichin Funakoshi
further developed the principles of karate which students can be tested on
during grading, and which we would like to share with you now:
- Karate
begins and ends with rei (respect)
The
bow (rei) must be performed before and after the match to show respect for one
another, rather than anger or hatred.
- There is
no first strike in karate
Again,
this demonstrates a lack of anger in a match, but also prevents your opponent
from learning your strongest moves.
- Karate
stands on the side of justice
Karate
is used to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves.
- First know
yourself, then know others
Self-awareness
and acceptance is the only way to move forward. Only then can you begin to understand
your opponent.
- Mentality
over technique
Unleashing
your intellect in conflict can avoid the need for physical intervention.
- The heart
must be set free
Allow
and accept emotional responses to life, but do not be controlled by them.
- Calamity
springs from carelessness
Be
mindful of your movements and words – in life as much as in karate matches
- Karate
goes beyond the dojo
Karate
principles should not be kept for the dojo, but taken through everyday life as
well.
- Karate is
a lifelong pursuit
As
with many athletic or intellectual practises, it is the practise that makes it
stronger.
- Apply the
way of karate to all things. Therein lies its beauty
Karate is a way of life.
Physical fitness, openness of mind and heart, respect for others – all should
be practised throughout life.
- Karate is
like boiling water; without heat, it returns to its tepid state
Keep
practising! Karate is a lifelong pursuit, because if it is not, you lose your
strength in it.
- Do not
think of winning. Think, rather, of not losing
If
you fight to win, your opponents will begin to learn your moves and that makes
you vulnerable. If you fight not to lose, you are reactionary and
unpredictable.
- Make
adjustments according to your opponent
This
is how we learn to conduct ourselves according to the needs of others. In a
karate match, and in life.
- The
outcome of a battle depends on how one handles emptiness and fullness
(weakness and strength)
This
could mean, always look on the bright side. It could also mean to play to your
own strengths and identify your opponent’s weaknesses.
- Think of
hands and feet as swords
Your
hands and feet are as important as any weapon – they should be fast and agile.
- When you
step beyond your own gate, you face a million enemies
Anything
can happen! Be prepared and understand that an attack can be in disguise.
- Formal
stances are for beginners; later, one stands naturally
Balance
when in combat is vital, so young karate practitioners are taught the formal
postures. Once the balance comes naturally, then so does the stance.
- Perform
the kata (prescribed sets of techniques) exactly; actual combat is another
matter
This
refers to understanding the basic principles before putting them into practise
in combat.
- Do not
forget the employment of withdrawal of power, the extension or contraction
of the body, the swift or leisurely application of technique
Reserving
judgement until you are clear on how to execute your power. This teaches us
when to strike and with which weapon for the greatest affect.
- Be
constantly mindful, diligent, and resourceful, in your pursuit of the Way
Constant
and persistent learning is the way to grow. Look for inspiration in others and
you will become stronger.
Gichin
Funakoshi wrote the book of Shotokan
Karate in 1938, which is quite detailed in it’s explanation of
the twenty guiding principles of karate. Students may find it a valuable
companion to their practice and to understanding humanity.