Budo principes

The twenty guiding principles of Budo

(vrij naar “The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate – Gischin Funakoshi”)

1. Budo begins and ends with Rei.
2. There is no first strike in Budo.
3. Budo stands on the side of justice.
4. First know yourself, then know others.
5. Mentality over technique.
6. The mind must be set free.
7. Calamity springs from carelessness.
8. Budo goes beyond the dojo.
9. Budo is a lifelong pursuit.
10. Apply the way of Budo to all things. Thereein lies its beauty.
11. Budo is like boiling water: without heat, it returns to its tepid state.
12. Do not think of winning. Think, rather of not losing.
13. Make adjustments according to your opponent.
14. The outcome of a battle depends on how one handles emptiness and fullness (weakness and strength).
15. Think of the opponents hands and feet as swords.
16. When you step beyond your own gate, you face a million ennemies.
17. Kamae (ready stance) is for beginnes; later, one stands in Shizentai (natural stance).
18. Perform Kata exactly; actual combat is another matter.
19. Do not forget the employment or withdrawal of power, the extension or contraction of the body, the swift or leisurely application of technique.
20. Be constantly mindful, diligent, and resourceful in your pursuit of the Way (Do)