Unafraid

“Karate is not a game. It is not a sport. It is not even a system of self-defense. Karate is half physical exercise and half spiritual. The karateist who has given the necessary years of exercise and meditation is a tranquil person. He is unafraid. He can even be calm in a burning building.”
— Mas Oyama

This quote by Mas Oyama is a powerful reminder of the true nature and purpose of Karate as a martial art. Karate, as a martial art, has long been associated with physical strength, discipline, and self-defense. However, its true essence goes beyond these external qualities. According to Mas Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin Karate, Karate is not just a sport or system of self-defense; it is a practice that combines physical exercise and spiritual training.

The quote “Karate is not a game. It is not a sport. It is not even a system of self-defense. Karate is half physical exercise and half spiritual” highlights the spiritual aspect of Karate that is often overlooked. By emphasizing the importance of spiritual training, Oyama reminds us that Karate is more than just a physical practice, but a holistic approach to personal growth and development.

Through years of exercise and meditation, a Karate practitioner can become a tranquil person, unafraid and calm even in the most challenging situations. This inner peace and strength can be attributed to the spiritual aspect of Karate, which cultivates virtues such as discipline, respect, and humility.

For those who practice the Christian faith, the spiritual aspect of Karate can be particularly supportive. By developing virtues that are important in the faith and fostering self-awareness and mindfulness, individuals can deepen their relationship with God and grow as both martial artists and Christians.

In conclusion, Mas Oyama’s quote reminds us of the transformative power of Karate and the importance of incorporating spiritual training into our practice. This quote is a testament to the profound impact that Karate can have on a person’s life, both in terms of physical fitness and spiritual growth. By embracing the spiritual aspect of Karate, we can become unafraid, tranquil individuals who are better equipped to navigate life’s challenges.

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