One Way or another....

 

No one martial art is better than another, but, some may suit certain individuals. Personalities and character play an important part in the choice of art. More important is what are our perceptions, aims, and goals. Nearly all arts fall into two categories – unarmed or armed but they all relate to one another. Some arts are more appropriate in enhancing another art and may even share some basic principles. Technically, aikido, judo, and jujitsu are very similar yet are perceived to be very different. Judo has evolved into a sport and has to abide by rules and regulations. Aikido and jujitsu have maintained their martial application. However, aikido provides a more spiritual path and comes close to following the bushido essence - yet many techniques are very similar.

Both aikido and jujitsu can be the fundamental structure for pursuing the Way of the Samurai. Using the sword, jo, and bokken, in aikido, is the key to this connection. Most martial arts use a variety of weapons as part of their training, depending on the style, each providing a unique sense of awareness to enhance their philosophies.

Other subtle differences may be found even in Ukemi (break-falling). Aikido rolls tend to be more graceful with the need to rise up to maintain continuity. Jujitsu removes the opportunity to rise up as techniques tend to be applied with an impression of "finality". The same could also be said for judo – as most judo techniques are performed to follow up with groundwork.

However, understanding and accepting that there, are infinite ways to apply martial principles will help individuals to better appreciate the connection between the arts. Different styles and names identify the culture and traditions of martial ways yet with deeper investigation they all share similar or related philosophies. Even those who focus on the sporting and competitive nature try to retain the original essence. 

Iaido and Kendo can also provide an advantage to the previous arts even though they have their own followers. Kendo is basically a sport but has retained the traditional values of budo. Iaido, the “art of drawing the sword”, can also give a better understanding of basic Aikido principles. Whereas, Kenjutsu, tends to promote combatant elements and the martial implications of the sword.

Karate, meaning literally “empty” hands allows one to develop the body as a tool but some schools also allow for a deeper and more profound experience. Many karate schools also allow for weapons training, particularly in Okinawa.

Claiming that one art is better than another, is a sure sign that one has ignored the fundamentals of bushido. The true student of bushido will be accepting without uncompromising on the various facets of budo. Study the path of your choice but don’t deny the wholesomeness of the martial ways. Each art is a jigsaw puzzle, but budo is the perception of an infinite number of "jigsaws" that make up the One.

Choose the arts that shape the spirit and soul to best develop us as individuals. Choose arts that hone the body and mind to merge into “One with the Universe”. Choose the method that releases the heart to harmonize with life and existence. Train and condition the self to explore, all that is around so we can perceive no boundaries in the quest for knowledge and enlightenment.

No one art can provide a complete understanding of Budo or encompass the true virtues of Bushido. Don’t allow vague brashness and overindulgent egos to contaminate the code of bushido with irrational claims. Choose the art that best serves our needs and defines our humanity - accepting the limitations, yet respecting what we cannot understand.

Most of all – be true to yourself…