Second Dan Essay by Ian Smith
In order to properly interpret for oneself what it means to be a JKS black belt, one must first have an understanding of the philosophy of karate. The reason I say this is, because like any sport or discipline, one must first properly understand the fundamentals before one can start the process of internalising and expressing oneself in context.
Gichin Funakoshi, founder of Shotokan karate apparently interpreted the 'kara' of Karate-do to mean "to purge (oneself) of selfish and evil thoughts, for only with a clear mind and conscience can (the practitioner) understand that (knowledge) which he receives." He also apparently believed that one should be 'inwardly humble and outwardly gentle.' This really makes sense because we can all admit that it is only when we are humble that we are able and capable to receive constructive criticism. He also considered courtesy of great importance.
It was accepted during that period and Funakoshi firmly believed that "Karate is properly applied only in those rare situations in which one really must either down another or be downed by him." To Funakoshi, it was not unusual for a practitioner to only really make use of Karate perhaps once in a life time. He took this view because his attitude was "never be drawn easily into a fight" as one strike by an expert could mean either life or death.
It is therefore not surprising that the Dojo Kun or guiding principles are what they are. It really is all about the development of one's character so that one can fight against the natural urge of arrogance, over confidence and to strive to be honest and uphold a high level of integrity. As one grasps and understands these principles, the importance of etiquette is appreciated as a natural extension.
Gichin Funakoshi, founder of Shotokan karate apparently interpreted the 'kara' of Karate-do to mean "to purge (oneself) of selfish and evil thoughts, for only with a clear mind and conscience can (the practitioner) understand that (knowledge) which he receives." He also apparently believed that one should be 'inwardly humble and outwardly gentle.' This really makes sense because we can all admit that it is only when we are humble that we are able and capable to receive constructive criticism. He also considered courtesy of great importance.
It was accepted during that period and Funakoshi firmly believed that "Karate is properly applied only in those rare situations in which one really must either down another or be downed by him." To Funakoshi, it was not unusual for a practitioner to only really make use of Karate perhaps once in a life time. He took this view because his attitude was "never be drawn easily into a fight" as one strike by an expert could mean either life or death.
It is therefore not surprising that the Dojo Kun or guiding principles are what they are. It really is all about the development of one's character so that one can fight against the natural urge of arrogance, over confidence and to strive to be honest and uphold a high level of integrity. As one grasps and understands these principles, the importance of etiquette is appreciated as a natural extension.
With a clear understanding of the above philosophy and principles, one is able to interpret for oneself the meaning of being a black belt. For me it is clearly a journey in life. This journey is no different to the developmental journey all living creatures follow:
Firstly, we are born without any real knowledge or understanding. This is the same with Karate when one's journey starts at the beginning. This beginning is all about understanding the basics and training oneself so that the movements become natural. It is also therefore a reality that the earlier in life this journey starts, the easier the body and mind adapt. It is therefore more difficult for someone who starts this journey later in life, as all the bad habits which have formed must be undone.
By the time we reach puberty we are better able to understand the more complex and exciting things about life. This is really the start to adulthood and beyond. I believe that when one attains the black belt for the first time, we are really only at the puberty stage, i.e. we know the basics, can do them reasonably well and we know there is a long and exciting journey of learning and understanding ahead that will require dedication, focus and humility.
By the age of 21 (now legislated at 18 years of age) one is considered to be an adult, mature enough to take full responsibility for oneself. From this stage on it is all about gaining experience and maturity. I believe this is the same with Karate, and one only really seem to reach this point around the third Dan level. This progression is not only logical but makes sense as the parallel to the life-stage analogy is appropriate.
The above is proven time and time again. I can recall several times when Sensei Pierre, during Saturday morning classes (although I have not been to any this year), explained to us some real life examples - usually during the self defence training. The most important lesson I learnt was 'if at all possible, avoid a conflict situation and if it cannot be avoided, then run.'
The message is clear: just because we train in Karate and have knowledge and some experience in fighting does not mean we should engage in a fight for no good reason. It is therefore no surprise to me to learn that Kumite was only introduced into Karate in the mid to late 1930's.
It is generally accepted that wisdom comes with age and maturity. While there are exceptions, this is true since it is generally a function of experience.
The most dangerous situation is one in which a little information is blended with ignorance. For those of us who have young children (and who may therefore have forgotten their own early teen years), this is very apparent. How often has it happened that your child contradicts you? And when this does happen, it is with conviction and it does not matter what you say, they believe they have all the answers.
Karate is no different, a little bit of experience with just some arrogance is very dangerous. It is therefore very disconcerting when I hear that the attainment of a black belt is, in itself, the final objective. This is in all likelihood to simply impress others because it is perceived to be 'cool' being a black belt.
Unfortunately not many people really understand the meaning of being a black belt. It is not so that I can simply 'donner another oke' if I am aggrieved, it is not to impress others and it is certainly not to have an inflated view of one's own abilities. It is simply to prepare in life to become a responsible and respectful citizen that recognises that taking care of one's body, mind and soul is of equal importance.
The training we get and the experience we accumulate over the years help to achieve this and in the unlikely event that we are faced with a threatening situation, where retreat is impossible or unsafe, then - and only then - should all the training, wisdom and experience enable one to survive the situation.
I also believe this applies to situations in which one experiences another defenceless person in a similar situation. From the little bit of research I have done, it would appear that Funakoshi also said "in time of grave public crises, one must have the courage to face a million and one opponents." It is therefore just as important that one is not 'selfish' with one's training and skill.
In conclusion, being a black belt means understanding the responsibility that comes with the honour. The principles and philosophy of Karate are therefore a way of life. One must work continuously to develop these traits as they apply to all aspects of life and, if applied correctly, we can all become better and more responsible citizens.
By the time we reach puberty we are better able to understand the more complex and exciting things about life. This is really the start to adulthood and beyond. I believe that when one attains the black belt for the first time, we are really only at the puberty stage, i.e. we know the basics, can do them reasonably well and we know there is a long and exciting journey of learning and understanding ahead that will require dedication, focus and humility.
By the age of 21 (now legislated at 18 years of age) one is considered to be an adult, mature enough to take full responsibility for oneself. From this stage on it is all about gaining experience and maturity. I believe this is the same with Karate, and one only really seem to reach this point around the third Dan level. This progression is not only logical but makes sense as the parallel to the life-stage analogy is appropriate.
The above is proven time and time again. I can recall several times when Sensei Pierre, during Saturday morning classes (although I have not been to any this year), explained to us some real life examples - usually during the self defence training. The most important lesson I learnt was 'if at all possible, avoid a conflict situation and if it cannot be avoided, then run.'
The message is clear: just because we train in Karate and have knowledge and some experience in fighting does not mean we should engage in a fight for no good reason. It is therefore no surprise to me to learn that Kumite was only introduced into Karate in the mid to late 1930's.
It is generally accepted that wisdom comes with age and maturity. While there are exceptions, this is true since it is generally a function of experience.
The most dangerous situation is one in which a little information is blended with ignorance. For those of us who have young children (and who may therefore have forgotten their own early teen years), this is very apparent. How often has it happened that your child contradicts you? And when this does happen, it is with conviction and it does not matter what you say, they believe they have all the answers.
Karate is no different, a little bit of experience with just some arrogance is very dangerous. It is therefore very disconcerting when I hear that the attainment of a black belt is, in itself, the final objective. This is in all likelihood to simply impress others because it is perceived to be 'cool' being a black belt.
Unfortunately not many people really understand the meaning of being a black belt. It is not so that I can simply 'donner another oke' if I am aggrieved, it is not to impress others and it is certainly not to have an inflated view of one's own abilities. It is simply to prepare in life to become a responsible and respectful citizen that recognises that taking care of one's body, mind and soul is of equal importance.
The training we get and the experience we accumulate over the years help to achieve this and in the unlikely event that we are faced with a threatening situation, where retreat is impossible or unsafe, then - and only then - should all the training, wisdom and experience enable one to survive the situation.
I also believe this applies to situations in which one experiences another defenceless person in a similar situation. From the little bit of research I have done, it would appear that Funakoshi also said "in time of grave public crises, one must have the courage to face a million and one opponents." It is therefore just as important that one is not 'selfish' with one's training and skill.
In conclusion, being a black belt means understanding the responsibility that comes with the honour. The principles and philosophy of Karate are therefore a way of life. One must work continuously to develop these traits as they apply to all aspects of life and, if applied correctly, we can all become better and more responsible citizens.
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