Principles
The Spiritual Legacy of Gichin Funakoshi
In order for Karate students to develop the correct spiritual and mental attitude that turn Karate, the mere Martial Art, into karate-do, a way, Gichin Funakoshi passed down the twenty principles. They provide for the beginner a structured framework with which to approach the art. For the experienced karateka they give guidence and a chance to explore deeper into what he or she has already mastered.
- Do not forget that karate-do begins and ends with rei
- There is no first strike in karate
- Karate stands on the side of justice
- First know yourself, then know others
- Mentality over technique
- The mind must be set free
- Calamity springs from carelessness
- Karate goes beyond the dojo
- Karate is a life-long pursuit
- Apply the way of karate to all things, therein lies its beauty
- Karate is like boiling water, without heat, it returns to a tepid state
- Do not think of winning, think rather of not losing
- Make adjustments according to your opponent
- The outcome of a battle depends on how one handles emptiness and fullness (weakness and strength)
- Think of the opponent’s hands and feet as swords
- When you step beyond your own gate, you face a million enemies
- Kamae (ready stance) is for beginners, later one stands in shizentai (natural stance)
- Perform kata exactly, actual combat is another matter
- Do not forget the employment or withdrawal of power, the extension or contraction of the body, the swift or leisurely application of technique
- Be constantly mindful, diligent and, resourceful in your pursuit of the way