The Esoteric Principles of Judo

Professor Henry Seishiro Okazaki
The fundamental principle acquired through the practice of Jujitsu was elevated to a finer moral concept called “Judo”, the way of gentleness. It may well be said then that the primary
object of practicing Judo is perfection of character. And in order to perfect one’s character, one must be grateful for the abundant blessings of heaven, earth and nature, as well as for the
great love of parents. One must realize one’s enormous debt to teachers and be ever mindful of one’s indebtedness to the general public.
As a member of a family, one’s first duty is to be filial to parents, to be helpful, affectionate to brothers and sisters. As a member of a nation, one must be grateful for the protection, which
one derives as a citizen. One must guard against self-interest and foster the spirit of social services. One must be discreet in action, yet hold courage in high regard and strive to
cultivate the powers of manhood. One must be gentle, modest, polite and resourceful, never eccentric, but striving always to practice moderation. One must realize that these constitute
the secret of the practice of Judo.
Anyone who practices Jujitsu should neither be afraid of the strong nor despise the weak. Nor should he act contrary to the strength of his enemy because of the art he has acquired. For
example, when a boat is set afloat on the water, one man’s strength is sufficient to move the boat back and forth. If, on the other hand, the boat is placed on dry land, the same man’s
strength is scarcely sufficient to move it. It is necessary therefore, that the weak should learn this fact with regard to the strong.
“The bough that bears most bends lowest.”
One should never forget the virtue of modesty as one attains proficiency in the art of judo. Make no relative importance between literary and military art. Within constant motion and
change there is tranquility, and within tranquility there is motion and change.
Remember always-parental love and one’s enormous indebtedness to teachers. Be grateful for the protection of Heaven and Earth. Be a good leader of younger men. To lead younger men
well, would in the long run, mean to attain proficiency in the skill of judo.
Like a drawing in India ink of the whispering of the wind in the pines, the secrets of Jujitsu can only be suggested. It is only through personal experience that one can comprehend the
mystic ecstasy of such secrets. It is said of Jujitsu that it would require ten years to practice in order to win victory over one’s self and twenty years to win victory over others.
A noted verse reads:
“For a lotus flower to fall is to rise to the surface.”
It is only by entering into the realm of open mindedness that one is able to acquire or master the secret art of selflessness and altruism.
These are the secrets of Kodenkan into which I have the honor to initiate you.
Henry S. Okazaki
Judo Master and Owner of Kodenkan
Honolulu, Hawaii
May 5, 1939
|