One of the most striking features of karate is that it may be engaged in by anybody, young or old, strong or weak, male or female.
Gichin FunakoshiRead
True karate is this: that in daily life one's mind and body be trained and developed in a spirit of humility, and that in critical times, one be devoted utterly to the cause of justice.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True karate emphasizes the importance of humility and justice in daily life.
In this quote, Gichin Funakoshi articulates that true karate transcends physical techniques; it is fundamentally about developing one's character through humility and a commitment to justice. The essence of martial arts is not just in the ability to fight but in cultivating a mindset that upholds moral values and serves a greater purpose, especially in challenging situations.
Themes
KarateHumilityJusticeTrainingCharacter
In practice
Example use cases
A martial arts instructor might use this quote to inspire students about the deeper values of their practice.
More from Gichin Funakoshi
All quotes →There is no first strike in Karate.
Gichin FunakoshiRead
When there are no avenues of escape or one is caught even before any attempt to escape can be made, then for the first time the use of self-defense techniques should be considered. Even at times like these, do not show any intention of attacking, but first let the attacker become careless. At that time attack him concentrating one's whole strength in one blow to a vital point and in the moment of surprise, escape and seek shelter and help.
Gichin FunakoshiRead
Once a kata has been learned, it must be practised repeatedly until it can be applied in an emergency, for knowledge of just the sequence of a kata in karate is useless.
Gichin FunakoshiRead
Karate is like boiling water: without heat, it returns to it's tepid state
Gichin FunakoshiRead
The secret principle of martial arts is not vanquishing the attacker, but resolving to avoid an encounter before its occurrence. To become an object of an attack is an indication that there was an opening in one's guard, and the important thing is to be on guard at all times.
Gichin FunakoshiRead
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