Kyokushin Karate - Eleven Mottoes of Mas Oyama

These are the eleven key mottoes of Mas Oyama and Kyokushin Karate. Learn them in order to master the way of Kyokushin… and to pass your belt tests!

For the main concepts and principles behind other martial arts styles, please visit the main Martial Arts Philosophy section.

Eleven Mottoes of Mas Oyama

1. The Martial Way begins and ends with courtesy. Therefore, be properly and genuinely courteous at all times.
2. Following the Martial Way is like scaling a cliff - continue upwards without rest. It demands absolute and unfaltering devotion to the task at hand.
3. Strive to seize the initiative in all things, all the time guarding against actions stemming from selfish animosity or thoughtlessness.
4. Even for the Martial Artist, the place of money cannot be ignored. Yet one should be careful never to become attached to it.
5. The Martial Way is centered in posture. Strive to maintain correct posture at all times.
6. The Martial Way begins with one thousand days and is mastered after ten thousand days of training.
7. In the Martial Arts, introspection begets wisdom. Always see contemplation on your action as an opportunity to improve.
8. The nature and purpose of the Martial Way is universal. All selfish desires should be roasted in the tempering fires of hard training.
9. The Martial Arts begins with a point and end in a circle. Straight lines stem from this principle.
10. The true essence of the Martial Way can only be realized through experience. Knowing this, learn never to fear its demands.
11. Always remember: In the Martial Arts the rewards of a confident and Grateful heart are truly abundant.

References

1. International Karate Organization Kyokushin, Kyokushin Spirit, http://www.kyokushinkaikan.org/en/about/spirit.html, Added - 03/14/14