Niju Kun – The 20 Principles
Sensei Gichin Funakoshi developed and refined twenty principles that should form the philosophical foundation for all Karate practitioners. He called these teachings Niju Kun.
These fundamental principles guide not only the practice of Karate, but also the way we should live our lives with honour, respect and discipline.
Princípios
1. Greeting
Karate begins with a bow and ends with a bow.
2. No Offence
In Karate there is no offensive attitude.
3. Path of Justice
Whoever practises Karate must follow the path of justice.
4. Self-Knowledge
Know yourself before you judge others.
5. Development of Spirit
The development of the spirit is most important; technical skill is only a means to that end.
6. Mental Control
Avoid loss of mental balance, control your mind.
7. Negligence
Misfortune is caused by negligence.
8. Lifelong Training
Karate training lasts a lifetime, not just the initiation.
9. Apply Karate
Use Karate in all things you do.
10. Hot Water
Karate is like hot water. If you do not constantly heat it, it becomes cold.
11. Do Not Be Defeated
Do not think of winning, think of not being defeated.
12. Strengths and Weaknesses
Victory depends on being able to distinguish strengths (JITSU) from weaknesses (KYO).
13. Move with the Opponent
Move according to your opponent.
14. Sharp Swords
Imagine your opponent’s limbs as sharp swords.
15. Millions of Opponents
For every man who leaves home, millions of opponents await.
16. Artificial to Natural
At first, movements are artificial, but with progress they become natural.
17. Correct Practice
Practise correctly what you have been taught; be aware that in application it becomes different.
18. Control of Force
Do not forget to apply correctly: 1) Strength and weakness in controlling your force; 2) Expansion and contraction of the body; 3) Control of techniques in both slowness and speed.
19. Study and Practise
Always study, practise and improve yourself.
20. Think Carefully
Always think carefully.
Live the Principles
These 20 principles of Niju Kun are more than rules for the dojo – they are a guide to a life of integrity, respect and continual growth.
