"Nothing is more harmful to the world than a martial art that is not effective in actual self-defense." - Choki Motobu

 

Posted by ADAM CARTER on JAN 06, 2024

"Nothing is more harmful to the world than a martial art that is not effective in actual self-defense." - Choki Motobu

 

It is said that the Okinawan karate pioneers, Gichin Funakoshi (1868-1957) and Choki Motobu (1870-1944), did not agree on many things and openly disliked each other.

Funakoshi became an advocate of Karate-do, while Motobu, an advocate of Karate-jutsu.

Motobu in his criticism of Funakoshi, stated that; “Nothing is more harmful to the world than a martial art that is not effective in actual self-defense.”

From the earliest records we have the enhancement of moral character of a student, which was a key part of karate.

It is true that the measure of a martial artist should encompass the essential values. But these values of respect, loyalty, self-discipline, indomitable spirit, integrity and more, on their own, are of no use when practical skills are needed most.

Today, even though many karate dojo call themselves traditional, mostly we have a modern system that has little to do with real self-defense or combat.

Karate as it is commonly practiced today, is to a greater extent, competition, tournament or sport oriented. Most practitioners have either never used their practices for real world self-defense (which is preferable), or never wished to, having only practiced within the conditioned environment of the dojo, or sports arena.

In many schools there is often a distinction made between the followers of Karate-do and Karate-jutsu.

Karate-do would ultimately be the practice of karate in order to develop the “character of its participants” (Funakoshi).

Karate-jutsu could be thought of as the application of karate in real situations.

While often used interchangeably, the key difference lies in the very essence of their names. “Do” translates to “way,” or “path”, emphasizing the spiritual and philosophical aspects of karate.

Karate-do seeks to cultivate self-improvement, self-discipline, and character development through rigorous training and ethical principles. It prioritizes personal growth over pure combat effectiveness.

In contrast, “jutsu” translates to “art” or “technique,” usually this term is used to emphasize the practical application of karate for self-defense and combat, honed for real-world confrontations.

Despite their philosophical differences, karate-do and karate-jutsu share a common foundation.

Both share a rich cultural heritage rooted in Okinawan history and tradition. They carry the legacy of past masters who honed their skills not just for combat, but for self-defense and the protection of their communities.

In the modern world, the lines between karate-do and karate-jutsu are increasingly blurring…… And rightly so, many styles incorporate elements of both philosophies, seeking to develop both the inner and outer aspects of practitioners.

This reflects a growing understanding that true self-defense goes beyond physical prowess, encompassing mental resilience, emotional control, and the ability to avoid conflict altogether.

By understanding their differences and appreciating their similarities, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of karate. And that the true essence of this art lies not in a single path.

While mastering self-defense (jutsu) is essential, the art blossoms when paired with self-mastery (do). Through rigorous practice and introspection, each movement illuminates strengths and weaknesses, crafting not just a skilled fighter, but a refined character.

Itosu Ankoh was noted for saying that: “Karate strives to build character, improve human behaviour, encourage modesty. However, by virtue of its practice, Karate cannot and does not guarantee it.”

Therefore, the true karate-ka becomes a practitioner with a purpose, wielding skills not just for personal defense, but for shaping something more meaningful.