Karate Precepts

Master Gichin Funakoshi developed 20 Precepts of Karate (Niju Kun) that act as a set of guidelines for karateka (karate practitioners). These precepts are heavily based on Bushido and Zen and ensure that the karateka are trained to be true budoka (practitioners of the warrior ways).

 

The precepts allude to teaching karateka compassion, respect, humility, awareness, patience, calmness, and more. These precepts are the foundation of Shotokan Karate but are also used in other styles of martial arts. The idea is, that coupled with your physical training, your mental state is what truly defines you not just as a martial artist, but as a person.

20 Shotokan Karate Precepts (Niju Kun)

  • 1. Karate begins and ends with courtesy
  • 2. There is no first attack in karate
  • 3. Karate is a great assistance to justice
  • 4. Know yourself first, then others
  • 5. Spirit first, techniques second
  • 6. Always be ready to release your mind
  • 7. Misfortune always comes out of idleness
  • 8. Do not think that karate training is only in the dojo
  • 9. It will take your entire life to learn karate, there is no limit
  • 10. Put your everyday living into karate and you will find the ideal state of existence
  • 11. Karate is like hot water, if you don’t give it consistent heat it will become cold
  • 12. Do not think that you have to win; rather, think that you do not have to lose
  • 13. Victory depends on your ability to distinguish vulnerable points from invulnerable ones
  • 14. The battle is according to how you maneuver guarded and unguarded - move according to your opponent
  • 15. Think of your hands and feet as swords
  • 16. When you leave your home, think that you have numerous opponents waiting for you - it is your behavior that invites trouble from them
  • 17. Beginners must master low stance and posture; natural body positions for advancements
  • 18. Practicing a kata is one thing, but engaging in a real fight is another
  • 19. Do not forget to control your dynamics of power, the elasticity of the body, and the speed of the technique
  • 20. Always think and devise ways to live the precepts every day

The History of Karate

Karate comes from a long history of sharing cultures, philosophies,
and various forms and techniques of self defense. Read The History of Karate
to learn more about its history and evolution through the generations.
History of Karate
 
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