Budo, the Japanese martial
ways, have their origins in the age-old martial spirit of Japan. Through
centuries of historical and social change, these forms of traditional
culture evolved from combat techniques (jutsu) into ways of
self-development (do).
Seeking the perfect
unity of mind and technique, budo has been refined and cultivated into ways
of physical training and spiritual development. The study of budo
encourages courteous behaviour, advances technical proficiency, strengthens
the body, and perfects the mind. Modern Japanese have inherited traditional
values through budo which continue to play a significant role in the
formation of the Japanese personality, serving as sources of boundless
energy and rejuvenation. As such, budo has attracted strong interest
internationally, and is studied around the world.
However, a recent trend
towards infatuation just with technical ability compounded by an excessive
concern with winning is a severe threat to the essence of budo. To prevent
any possible misrepresentation, practitioners of budo must continually
engage in self-examination and endeavour to perfect and preserve this
traditional culture.
It is with this hope
that we, the member organisations of the Japanese Budo Association,
established The Budo Charter in order to uphold the fundamental principles
of budo.
ARTICLE 1: OBJECTIVE OF
BUDO
Through physical and
mental training in the Japanese martial ways, budo exponents seek to build
their character, enhance their sense of judgement, and become disciplined
individuals capable of making contributions to society at large.
ARTICLE 2: KEIKO
(Training)
When training in budo,
practitioners must always act with respect and courtesy, adhere to the
prescribed fundamentals of the art, and resist the temptation to pursue
mere technical skill rather than strive towards the perfect unity of mind,
body, and technique.
ARTICLE 3: SHIAI
(Competition)
Whether competing in a
match or doing set forms (kata), exponents must externalise the spirit
underlying budo. They must do their best at all times, winning with
modesty, accepting defeat gracefully, and constantly exhibiting
self-control.
ARTICLE 4: DOJO
(Training Hall)
The dojo is a special
place for training the mind and body. In the dojo, budo practitioners must
maintain discipline, and show proper courtesies and respect. The dojo
should be a quiet, clean, safe, and solemn environment.
ARTICLE 5: TEACHING
Teachers of budo should
always encourage others to also strive to better themselves and diligently
train their minds and bodies, while continuing to further their
understanding of the technical principles of budo. Teachers should not
allow focus to be put on winning or losing in competition, or on technical
ability alone. Above all, teachers have a responsibility to set an example
as role models.
ARTICLE 6: PROMOTING
BUDO
Persons promoting budo
must maintain an open-minded and international perspective as they uphold
traditional values. They should make efforts to contribute to research and
teaching, and do their utmost to advance budo in every way.
Member
Organisations of the Japanese Budo Association
Zen Nihon Judo Renmei
(All Japan Judo
Federation)
Zen Nihon Kyudo Renmei
(All Nippon Kyudo
Federation)
Zen Nihon Karatedo
Renmei
(Japan Karatedo
Federation)
Shorinji Kempo Renmei
(Shorinji Kempo
Federation)
Zen Nihon Jukendo
Renmei
(All Japan Jukendo
Federation)
|
Zen Nippon Kendo
Renmei
(All Japan Kendo
Federation)
Nihon Sumo Renmei
(Japan Sumo
Federation)
Aikikai
(Aikikai Foundation)
Zen Nihon Naginata
Renmei
(All Japan Naginata
Federation)
Nippon Budokan
(Nippon Budokan
Foundation)
|
Established on 23 April,
1987 by the Japanese Budo Association (Nippon Budo Kyogikai)
|