Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate

Master Gichin Funakoshi’s 20 Precepts

With commentary and analysis by Sensei Ann, BBMA Hornsby

The Twenty Guiding Principles of Traditional Karate

At Black Belt Martial Arts (BBMA) we teach traditional ‘Shotokan’ Karate.

All martial arts (BJJ, Boxing, Taekwondo etc) teach students how to defend themselves, and our Karate programs at BBMA are no exception. Consistent Karate training ensures our students develop self-confidence, become fitter, stronger, more agile and flexible.

However, there is SO MUCH MORE to Karate than just kicking and punching!

Traditional Karate can take your martial arts journey beyond the physical – by taking a whole of life approach - developing body, mind and spirit.

At BBMA Hornsby, it is this aspect of martial arts training that gets us excited and gives us a sense of purpose - helping people transform their lives through martial arts.

Master Gichin Funakoshi – the father of Shotokan Karate - famously wrote that “the ultimate purpose of Karate is the perfection of character of its participants”. Funakoshi passed down twenty guiding principles for us. These principles (or precepts) are the guideposts for enabling this ‘whole of life’ growth and personal development.

In this way, Master Funakoshi teaches us how to progress from studying only the martial aspects of traditional Karate, to embracing and living the Karate-do – ie the ‘way’.

1. Do not forget that Karate-Do begins and ends with rei/courtesy

In a Karate Dojo, each class, and every interaction on the mats, begins and ends with a bow. This is a simple, symbolic representation (and reminder) of what it means to incorporate courtesy and respect into every aspect of your martial art training, and in your life as a martial artist more broadly.

The concept of ‘rei’ first asks us to know, respect and honour ourselves; without ego, arrogance, or pride. An attitude of ‘rei’ can then extend to a deep and sincere respect for others. Studying martial arts should be both a noble and ethical pursuit – a journey of continuous personal improvement – not one of brutality or violence.

2. There is no first strike in Karate

“A sword must never be recklessly drawn”/”Karate ni sente nashi”

Honourable Samurai knew not to draw their blade unless a life was in immediate danger and their ability to tolerate the situation is exhausted. Only then would they strike, taking the initiate and striking first with full spirit, but only as a last resort.

In Karate, an experienced martial artist’s ‘superpower’ is their ability to stop any fighting; to peacefully avoid it where possible, to skilfully de-escalate conflict, and to walk away if they are able. Nonetheless, when there is no alternative, a martial artist is taught to wholeheartedly seize the initiative, striking first to defend themselves and others.

Strive for self-control. Seek peace and never be the cause of the violence. But if violence cannot be avoided, seize the initiative and strike first. This is the correct spirit of budo – i.e. the martial way.

3. Karate stands on the side of Justice

Simply put, Karateka (Karate practitioners) aim to ‘do the right thing’.

We reflect on what is right and what is wrong. If we must step up or take a stand, we do it bravely, respectfully and on the side of justice.

4. First, know yourself. Then know others

“When one knows the enemy and knows oneself, one will not be in danger in a hundred battles”

Sun Tsu, The Art of War

Karate training provides a fantastic vehicle for facing your fears (being brave and doing it anyway!) challenging our paradigms/perceptions and learning who we really are. We learn to reflect on ourselves honestly – without flattering ourselves or turning a ‘blind eye’ to our own shortcomings.

Until we know ourselves, we can’t begin to know others. Karate students learn to take personal ownership and hold ourselves accountable – for our own thoughts and behaviours.

From a position of self-knowledge, we can observe, listen to, and learn to understand others. This places us in a position of great strength, allowing us to see the bigger picture and plan the best course of action, whether in the Dojo, the school yard, the workplace and in society.

5. Spirit over technique

In traditional Karate, the right attitude is everything. Adopting the correct spirit/heart/mindset is more important than demonstrating the right technique. And the ‘right attitude’ is a life-long commitment to self-improvement and non-violence.

For example, from a self-defence perspective (and consistent with precept number 2 -Karate ni sente nashi), Karateka are taught to recognise and avoid dangerous people, places, situations and things. When faced with conflict our mindset must be of alert, peaceful non-violence. And if fighting becomes necessary as a last resort, Karate practitioners know that their lives are worth protecting and will fight with 100% effort/heart and an indominable spirit.

Master Funakoshi believes the ability develop the correct spirit/mentality is more important than knowing 1000 techniques.

A correct mindset is the absolute heart - the essence - of traditional Karate practice.

6. The mind must be set free

Act with an ‘unfettered’ mind.

When learning something new, we think each movement through carefully. We consider how it feels, what we can remember from our last lesson. We think about whether we’re doing it right or wrong and what changes/improvements are needed.

However, when we are no longer practicing, but rather ‘doing’ – for example, during fighting – we must let go of conscious thought, empty our mind and simply execute based on the situation before us. We rely on our prior training (and act calmly and instinctively) engaging a ‘mushin’/flow state of mind.

As with all the precepts, this skill can be applied to many areas of our lives outside the Dojo.

7. Calamity springs from carelessness

Show caution. Accidents arise from negligence, so be diligent in all you do.
This basic lesson can be applied to almost anything we do – driving a car, working, preparing assignments for school or university, communicating with your loved ones – everything!

8. Karate goes beyond the Dojo

What you do in the outside world affects your Karate practice and your growth/progress as a karateka. This includes the way you eat, the way you speak to your parents and siblings, the effort you apply to your studies or work, and the kindness you show to your loved ones, the vulnerable and the needy in your community (and beyond). Something for every Karateka to ponder and reflect on.

9. Karate is a lifelong pursuit

There is no ‘finish line’ and no limit. Regardless of your age it will take your whole life to learn Karate.

Unlike some martial arts and sports, traditional Karate is for everyone. Children can start at BBMA Hornsby from the age of 3. Adults can continue training and improving until a (very) old age.

There is no limit to your ability to progress – Karateka endeavour to be better than they were yesterday, to strive for progress (not perfection) and do not compare themselves with others - who are on their own journey. Walking this ‘endless road’ with courage and conviction is the Karate way.

10. Apply the way of Karate to all things. Therein lies its beauty

The attributes you develop through regular Karate training can be applied in all areas of your life. It really is a beautiful thing 😊

The mental/physical demands of traditional Karate training equip you to face obstacles in all areas of your life. Karate demands self-reflection and introspection, patience, adaptability, ‘grit’ and resilience.

Through a determined focus on the body AND the mind/spirit, Karateka learn that they can face challenges, achieve goals and do difficult things. These qualities position us well for success in all aspects of our school, our work, our relationships with others and our daily lives.

11. Karate is like boiling water; without heat, it returns to its tepid state

“Learning through practice is like pushing a cart up a hill: if you slack off, it will slip backwards” Japanese Proverb.

Consistency over time matters. As in all things, Karate students make progress when they commit to regular, consistent practice. If you put in the effort, you will improve and reap the rewards of your training.

12. Do not think of winning. Think rather of not losing

“The everyday mentality of the practitioner of Karate-do should aspire to be outwardly gentle but inwardly strong” Genwa Nakasone

This principle deals with mindset and self-mastery. In traditional Karate we aim to show a kind, respectful and peaceful demeanour on the outside, quietly confident that we are strong on the inside.

Thinking only of winning/besting others can lead to unnecessary aggression and a lack of understanding or humility. Instead, our mind and body are flexible – we adapt ‘like water, knowing we can be ‘like rock’ – setting a boundary if and when we need to.

13. Make adjustments according to your opponent

Again, be flexible and adaptable – be ‘like water’. In particular, avoid your opponents’ strengths and identify/exploit their weaknesses. In Karate, as in life, there is no one right way. Karateka must learn to ‘read the room’/assess their opponent and react accordingly.

14. The outcome of a battle depends on how one handles emptiness and fullness (weakness and strength)

The Karate student starts by learning basic stances, strikes, blocks and other basic skills. We then progress to learning how and when to use/leverage tension & relaxation, about line of force, power generation, when and how to use strength and how to apply all of this knowledge to (for example) execute a powerful technique.

Experienced Karateka understand the strengths and weaknesses within themselves and (in ‘battle’) know how to exploit and adapt the situation to their advantage.

15. Think of the opponent’s hands and feet as swords

In a self-defence situation, even the most unlikely or untrained attacker should be considered dangerous. Even those not wishing to hurt you can pose a threat – think small child brandishing a sharp knife! Regardless of the situation, when faced with any potential threat, we should take a serious and respectful attitude, allowing that our lives may be in danger, with 100% of our attention.

16. When you step beyond your own gate, you face a million enemies

When we leave our homes, negligence, distraction, apathy and lack of attention can be our greatest enemies. Instead, maintain a ‘zanshin’ state of open awareness. Karateka learn to pay attention to their environment and trust their instincts. They are also careful not to antagonise or offend others.

Conversely, there is no need to be paranoid or on high guard at all times - your precautions should be commensurate with (your assessment of) the level of the threat.

We recommend reading ‘The Gift of Fear’ by Gavin de Becker – we cover much of this material in our regular Women’s Self Defence Seminars and regular class curriculum at Hornsby Dojo.

17. Kamae (ready stance) is for beginners; later, one stands in shizentai (natural stance)

A Karate stance is a ‘snapshot’ - a frozen moment in time. In practice/application Karate is not fixed/static but rather we ‘flow’ through our stances – moving fluidly. A fixed/rigid stance is not the ultimate objective. Stances are something that we move ‘to and through’ – incorporating flowing movement and correctly shifting body weight as needed.

18. Perform Kata exactly; actual combat is another matter

This precept is NOT intended to suggest that Kata and combat are unrelated.

Rather, a Kata is a given/set example of attacks and responses. In kata we need to be precise to develop the necessary muscle memory and muscle control.

In actual fighting, however, there is no pre-prescribed form. We can select from the ‘menu’ of kata techniques, principles and patterns we have learned, adapting and applying what is needed based on what’s happening in the moment – considering our knowledge of ourselves, the situation, the context and our opponent (their strengths and weaknesses).

19. Do not forget the employment or withdrawal of power, the extension or contraction of the body, the swift or leisurely application of technique

“The indiscriminate use of strength is the sign of an inexperienced Karateka” Gichin Funakoshi – Karate do, My way of life

In Karate, as in life, there is a time to be solid and a time to yield. We need to learn to pick our battles.

When practicing Kata in particular, Gichin Funakoshi suggests 3 main focus areas:
- application and withdrawal of strength
- application and withdrawal of speed
- expansion and contraction of your body
Karate students at BBMA learn to apply these principles in class.

For everyone else, we recommend reading ‘Karate Do Kyohan’ by Gichin Funakoshi to understand this principle in greater detail.

20. Be constantly mindful, diligent, and resourceful in your pursuit of the ‘way’

This last principle is intended to encapsulate and summarise all the previous ones.

Always try your best. Think about your training and reflect on it. Consider how you can apply your martial arts skills across all areas of your day to day life.