20 Precepts of Gichin Funakoshi

To progress at every belt, there is a grading. Students are tested on basics, kata, bunkai (applications of the kata), and self-defence. Additionally, there is a short take-home test students must write. The questions are taken directly from class discussions. The first 2 questions on the White Belt Test are from Gichin Funakoshi’s 20 Precepts of Karate-do.

1. Karate begins and ends with respect.
2. In Karate there is no first strike.

More than just a karate master, Gichin Funakoshi was a philosopher, poet, and one of the founding fathers of modern karate. His most significant contribution to the art may be the 20 Precepts he established.

1. Karate begins and ends with respect.
2. In Karate there is no first strike.
3. Karate stands on the side of justice.
4. First know yourself before attempting to know others.
5. Spirit before technique.
6. Always be ready to release your mind.
7. Accidents arise from negligence.
8. Do not think that Karate training is only in the dojo.
9. It will take your entire life to learn Karate; there is no limit.
10. Put your everyday living into Karate and you will find “Myo” (subtle secrets).
11. Karate is like boiling water. If you do not heat it constantly it will cool.
12. Do not think that you have to win. Rather think that you do not have to lose.
13. Victory depends on your ability to distinguish vulnerable points from invulnerable ones.
14. The battle is according to how you move guarded and unguarded (move according to your opponent).
15. Think your hands and feet as swords.
16. When you leave home, think that you have numerous opponents waiting for you. It is your behaviour that invites trouble.
17. Beginners must master low stance and posture. Natural body positions are for the advanced.
18. Practicing a kata is one thing; engaging in a real fight is another.
19. Do not forget to correctly apply: strength and weakness of power, stretching and contraction of the body, and slowness and speed of techniques.
20. Always think and devise ways to live the precepts every day.

"The ultimate aim of Karate lies not in victory nor defeat, but in the perfection of character of its participants.”. -- Gichin Funakoshi