Kyokun Martial – Rei/respect at the beginning, rei/respect at the end.

Almost 40 years ago, during my first Karate lesson in Lima (Peru), surrounded by other white belts, sensei Saul began his lesson by explaining dojo etiquette, the greeting before entering the tatami, how to line up, how to sit down and salute before starting a lesson; repeated the same protocols at the end of the course. After all these years, I think I have practiced this reverence ceremony many more times than any kata or kumite, and there is a reason behind these teachings.

I want to give you my personal interpretation of the first martial precept (“Kyokun” in Japanese). “Rei” is the key concept of karate etiquette (“Reigi” in Japanese). We could broadly define it as the desire to establish a relationship of mutual trust, good intentions, understanding and respect. And it is precisely because of its importance that Gichin Funakoshi, one of the fathers of modern karate, placed it at the center of the first of these 20 precepts (Kyokun or Nijukun) of karate-do.

To reinforce the importance of this concept, I quote Sensei Hirokazu Kanazawa, one of the great masters of Shotokan karate and one of the last students of Gichin Funakoshi, who said in relation to Rei «He who learns karate-do must acquire a deep understanding of Rei and must always adhere to the principles of the appropriate Reigi.»

Rei as a philosophy is closely linked to a way of life in which one begins, continues and ends with an attitude that remains constant and present everywhere. Rei at the dojo for having the opportunity to train with your partner as well as Rei at the sensei for taking the time to teach us the way of karate and always being there for all the karateka, to show them how to train and improve. The Rei at home, at school or at work is also expressed towards all those who work or have worked hard to help you become better and transmit solid values ​​to you over the years. But don’t forget that Rei must also manifest itself towards yourself to recognize your perseverance and discipline to move forward in your karate journey.

We could summarize the «Rei» as the manifestation of a sincere heart full of respect. It means the respect we feel towards others, but it also marks the esteem we have for ourselves.

Couple: Luis Salgado