The twenty guiding principles of Budo
(vrij naar “The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate – Gischin Funakoshi”)
- Budo begins and ends with Rei.
- There is no first strike in Budo.
- Budo stands on the side of justice.
- First know yourself, then know others.
- Mentality over technique.
- The mind must be set free.
- Calamity springs from carelessness.
- Budo goes beyond the dojo.
- Budo is a lifelong pursuit.
- Apply the way of Budo to all things. Thereein lies its beauty.
- Budo is like boiling water: without heat, it returns to its tepid state.
- Do not think of winning. Think, rather of not losing.
- Make adjustments according to your opponent.
- The outcome of a battle depends on how one handles emptiness and fullness (weakness and strength).
- Think of the opponents hands and feet as swords.
- When you step beyond your own gate, you face a million ennemies.
- Kamae (ready stance) is for beginnes; later, one stands in Shizentai (natural stance).
- Perform Kata exactly; actual combat is another matter.
- Do not forget the employment or withdrawal of power, the extension or contraction of the body, the swift or leisurely application of technique.
- Be constantly mindful, diligent, and resourceful in your pursuit of the Way (Do)