The Philosophy of Karate
Philosophy of Karate
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Karate is not about accumulating points, competing in weight classes, or performing flashy displays. It is a martial art and a way of life that teaches a practitioner to embody peace. However, if conflict becomes inevitable, true karate emphasizes overcoming an opponent with a single, decisive strike.
Achieving this requires strength, speed, focus, and control. Yet, these physical attributes are merely tools, not the ultimate goal. The deeper purpose lies beyond the actions themselves.
True karate self-defense is rooted in the principles of Bushido. In authentic karate, the development of body, mind, and spirit—one's entire being—is essential. Through kihon, kumite, and kata, we learn to master our movements. But equally important is learning to release control. With practice, the body performs techniques instinctively, and the mind remains effortlessly still. We cultivate a state where the body knows how to move, and the mind knows how to be at peace.
This seamless integration of mind and body creates a profound power. Even the greatest physical strength and skill fall short when compared to the strength found in this harmony.
The essence of true karate is natural, effortless action. It fosters confidence, humility, openness, and a deep sense of peace—qualities that can only arise from the perfect unity of mind and body. This is the core of Zen, the foundation of Bushido, and the philosophy that guides the JKA’s approach to karate.
"The ultimate aim of the art of karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the characters of its participants."
—Master Gichin Funakoshi
Keeping with Tradition
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An increasing number of karate organizations have adopted weight classes and point systems for tournaments, which is transforming karate into a competitive sport. While karate's growing popularity in this regard is undeniable, we at the JKA have concerns about what this trend means for the future of the art. We believe that turning karate into a sport compromises its true spirit. While the external form may remain, its essence is at risk of being lost. Karate is not meant to be a sport or a competition; it is a way of life.
In competitive karate (kyogi), the aim is to win. Weight classifications and point systems are introduced to make the competition “fair,” but these rules are often changed arbitrarily. At the JKA, however, our tournaments are not about winning for the sake of victory. Instead, they are shiai (“matches”), where the goal is not to score points but to test and refine one’s skills. The objective is to demonstrate one’s progress and mastery of technique. In JKA karate, we aim to defeat an opponent with a single decisive strike—either you down your opponent, or they down you. There are no points along the way, only the result of the match. The ultimate goal is not to win, but to apply one’s skills to the best of one’s ability.
This is the path we follow.
As for the future of JKA karate, it remains firmly grounded in the traditions we have upheld for over fifty years. Our fundamentals and rules have never changed. The trinity of kihon, kata, and kumite—leading to kime—remains constant, though continuously refined. JKA karate is natural, not artificially tailored for point-based competitions.
As the Keeper of Karate’s Highest Tradition, we are committed to preserving and transmitting the full depth and power of the spiritual principles that lie at the heart of our art. Our tournaments will continue to be shiai, opportunities for each karate-ka to test their progress. We will remain steadfast in our mission to ensure the true essence of karate-do is understood and practiced worldwide.
Bushido: The Way of the Samurai
For centuries, Bushido has been the samurai code of conduct in Japan. Rooted in the teachings of Zen, Bushido was designed to help the samurai master their nature, understand their minds, and explore the universe through direct experience, while cultivating strength, self-control, and wisdom.
Bushido is based on seven core principles:
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Seigi: The right decision and rectitude
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Yuki: Bravery and heroism
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Jin: Compassion and benevolence to all
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Reigi: Courtesy and right action
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Makoto: Truthfulness and utter sincerity
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Meiyo: Honor and glory
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Chugi: Devotion and loyalty
Martial spirit and courage were crucial aspects of Bushido, but its highest goal was complete virtue in thought and action. Every samurai followed a strict regimen of etiquette and ceremony, cultivating virtue in all aspects of life. Through this discipline, Bushido helped the samurai harmonize mind and body, enabling them to maintain a calm and focused state of mind—heijoshin ("ordinary everyday mind")—even in the most challenging circumstances.
Sincerity, kindness, honesty, filial piety, and honor were core to Bushido, and these values planted the seeds from which the karate tradition grew. The wisdom, understanding, and peaceful strength these principles promote are among karate's greatest benefits—and among Japan’s greatest gifts to the world.
