“Gichin Funakoshi’s ideal, who has come to be recognized as the ‘Father of Karate-do’, was to advance from Jutsu to Do. It has become my mission to attain this goal." - Shigeru Egami

 

Posted by ADAM CARTER on MAY 17, 2024

“Gichin Funakoshi’s ideal, who has come to be recognized as the ‘Father of Karate-do’, was to advance from Jutsu to Do. It has become my mission to attain this goal." - Shigeru Egami

 

Karate is often suffixed by the terms ‘Jutsu’ or ‘Do’. Understanding these concepts is an important part of your training.

Many people comment on my articles that they don’t need self-defense skills, finding the character-building aspect more appealing. While each to their own, this separation limits their potential.

‘Jutsu’, translating to ‘method’, refers to the realistic aspects of combat, forming the foundation for self-defense. ‘Do’, on the other hand, translates to ‘the way’, a path emphasizing the character-building philosophy that guides a karateka’s journey.

Sometimes Jutsu and Do are portrayed as opposing forces. Some view karate-do, with its emphasis on character development, as watered-down.

Conversely, karate-jutsu is seen as solely focused on fighting. However, this perspective overlooks the true essence of karate, which lies in the harmonious integration of both Jutsu and Do.

Shigeru Kimura sensei of Shukokai expressed this perfectly when asked if his karate was Jutsu or Do. He simply replied, “Jutsu becomes Do”.

The physical and mental demands of consistent training expose your weaknesses. These challenges, whether they are facing your own fears or pushing through fatigue, builds not just physical strength but also mental resilience.

Do, the ‘way’ of karate, goes beyond physical techniques. It emphasizes self-improvement through the rigorous discipline required to become proficient in your chosen art. The challenges you overcome in the dojo can also help you to face difficulties outside it too.

Jutsu provides the foundation for pragmatic karate, but without the guiding principles of Do, you may feel there is something missing. Conversely, focusing solely on Do without practical training risks leaving you unprepared. True proficiency in karate lies in the synergy between these seemingly different concepts.

It’s important for practitioners to find meaning in the terminology they use, based on their understanding and connection to the art they practice.

For some, karate’s beauty lies in its dual capacity to cultivate both fighting skills and self-improvement.

Through committed and dedicated training, you confront your weaknesses, both physical and mental, allowing a good teacher to guide you towards improvement. As you grow as karateka, you can grow as a person.

Many people may have read the narrative from Funakoshi and others, stating that karate is defined by character improvement. While true, this growth is a lifelong journey.

Personally, I call my karate ‘Jutsu. I believe making my karate relevant and practical clarifies this distinction. My students understand that the ‘Do’ comes later, and both reinforce each other.

The ‘Do’ in karate emphasizes personal growth, but it shouldn’t exclude the practical aspects of training. Both approaches have their place within the diverse landscape of karate today.

Ultimately, how you approach karate is a deeply personal decision. The true reward lies in the journey it offers you.