- Karate and Religion: Can They
Work Together?
- By Luciano Paparella
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- There is a misconception among
many that karate is some sort of religion and practicing it may
conflict with ones faith. Parents hesitate to enroll their child
into a karate school because they are afraid he or she will be
converted. They see everyone dressed in white, barefoot,
kneeling and bowing to a picture of a person. No one speaks
unless spoken to.
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- Karate teaches two very
important concepts; respect, and discipline. These concepts are
best taught through repeated practice through Karate's protocols
on respect and discipline.
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- Kneeling down and closing your
eyes before a class starts is simply a practice to meditate and
empty the mind in order to focus 100% on your training.
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- Then there is the bowing and
salutations to these ancient people. Again this is a practice of
respect to the founders of the karate style. This is done in
most martial art systems.
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- Why barefoot? In karate, your
hands and feet, among other parts of your body, represent your
weapons. Part of your training is to develop these parts of the
body.
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- Why do we wear these uniforms?
Think of this uniform as a work-out suit. It is specially
designed for fighting. The collar has multiple stitches to
reinforce it. It is made in such a way to allow the body to move
effortlessly in it.
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- Why is everyone answering with
this word "OSU!"? In the context this word is being used, it
means "I understand", "I will try harder", "I will make the
effort", "I will persevere". It is always used in a positive
way. When everyone answers at the same time, it demonstrate the
concentration level of the group and motivates everyone to try
harder.
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- In conclusion, the practice of
karate has nothing to do with religion. It is simply a
discipline that teaches mutual respect, non-violence, and
personal development in mind and body. Karate simply allows you
to respect yourself and others, and therefore should be a
vehicle to reinforce your religious principles. There is a
wealth of information on the web regarding this topic. Just
google “faith
martial arts”. I hope this article gave you a new
perspective about faith in karate.
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- Respectfully,
- Sensei Luciano
- http://www.karate-tansei.com
- Canada
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