Kyokushin Spirit

Philosophy:

The International Karate Organization (Kyokushinkaikan) is dedicated in following the martial way of karate to build character, to train the mind and body, and to become contributing members of society. This study is based heavily on Sosai Mas Oyama's teaching that one should "keep your head low (modesty), eyes high (ambition), mouth shut (patience), and base yourself on piety and the benefit of others."
We do not promote or practice discrimination or prejudice based on ethnicity, race, nationality, politics, philosophy, religion, sex or age. Furthermore, we recognize that everyone has the same rights. Our greatest pursuit is international friendship and world peace.

"The heart of our karate is real fighting.
There can be no proof without real fighting.
Without proof there is no trust.
Without trust there is no respect.
This is a definition in the world of Martial Arts."

Dojo Kun (Dojo Oath):

written by the founder of Kyokushin Karate, Mas Oyama (1923-1994)
Kyokushin Karate is a Martial Art called BUDO. Without truly understanding the philosophy, a practitioner never reaches his or her full potential. The Dojo Kun (Oath) is the foundation for fulfilling the true Kyokushin Spirit. The Dojo Kun was written by Kyokushin's founder Sosai Mas Oyama, with the assistance of Eiji Yoshikawa, author of "Musashi", which details the life and exploits of Japan's greatest warrior, Musashi Miyamoto.

We will train our hearts and bodies
  for a firm unshaking spirit.

We will pursue the true meaning of the Martial Way,
  So that in time, our senses may be alert.

With true vigor,
    we will seek to cultivate a spirit of self denial.

We will observe the rules of courtesy,
   respect our superiors, and refrain from violence.

We will follow our religious principles,
   and never forget the true virtue of humility.

We will look upwards to wisdom and strength,
   not seeking other desires.
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All our lives, through the discipline of karate,
   we will seek to fulfill the true meaning of the Kyokushin Way.

Eleven Mottos of Mas Oyama:

These eleven mottoes, touted by Sosai as fundamental philosophies of the Kyokushin Way, extend not only to our training, but to our ways of life. Their meanings are diverse, and apply differently to all individuals, as a function of age and experience in the Martial Way. These, combined with the Dojo Kun, should be carefully contemplated by all students of Kyokushin karate.

1. 1. The Martial Way begins and ends with courtesy. Therefore, be properly and genuinely courteous at all times.
2. 2. Following the Martial Way is like scaling a cliff. Continue upwards without rest. It demands absolute and unfaltering devotion to the task at hand.
3. 3. Strive to seize the initiative in all things, all the time guarding against actions stemming from selfish animosity or thoughtlessness.
4. 4. Even for Martial Artists, the place of money cannot be ignored. Yet one should be careful never to become attached to it.
5. 5. The Martial Way is centered in posture. Strive to maintain correct posture at all times.
6. 6. The Martial Way begins with one thousand days and is mastered after ten thousand days of training.

7. In Martial Arts, introspection begets wisdom. Always see contemplation of your actions as an op​​​​portunity to improve.

1. 8. The nature and purpose of the Martial Way is universal. All selfish desires should be roasted in the tempering fires of hard training.                                     9. Martial Arts begin with a point and end in a circle. Straight lines stem from this principle.                                         10. The true essence of the Martial Way can only be realized through experience. Knowing this, learn never to fear its demands                                                                                                                                                                                                  11. Always remember: In Martial Arts the rewards of a confident and grateful heart are truly abundant.

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