Martial Spirit | Martial Art

One of many terms readily used by proponents of the martial arts here in the United States with out fully understanding exactly what "Martial Art" or "Martial Spirit" means.

One must study with the mind and integrate that study with the physical practice of the fighting arts to "see" the true meaning. Although I am one who studies the classics as translated into English I still find tidbits of additional meaning behind these two titles.

In the Elemental Changes, and companion to the I Ching, as opened by the Kenpo Gokui of the fighting art of Isshinryu I found another tidbit that helps my understanding:

"True Martial Spirit requires self-restraint and self-sacrifice on other's behalf." - Tetragram 32, Appraisal 4 of the Elemental Changes.

What I am finding is the many singular definitions as to what it means to be a true martial artist with martial spirit is within the mind as it studies the Ancient Classics.

Does this mean that we don't have our own modern writings that provide meaning to martial spirit and martial art? Absolutely not for many of today's writings provide clues to anyone looking for it. An example is the teachings of the Power of Now.

Seek and ye shall find!

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