The Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate: The Spiritual Legacy of the Master

Rating:
Summary: Life Lessons in a Martial Context
Review: In this book, Sensei Funakoshi outlines the philosophical benchmarks that exemplify the way a true Do practitioner should live and think. He has provided here an invaluable resource, not only for lessons inside of the dojo- but for outside as well. I must emphasize that books like these, in general, are not only for the instructor Sensei, but should ESPECIALLY be looked at by sometimes confused students (kyu) who need guidance at times with understanding how their dojo training can continue outside of class as well. These lessons are simple in nature, but upon closer review, along with commentaries to go with them, one may find deeper meanings in Funakoshi's few words- making the lessons so easy, yet just that hard as well. Each principle is complimented, again, by insightful commentary, and shown with beautiful calligraphy which in and of itself bring an elegance, style, and simplicity to this beautiful book.

Rating:
Summary: Life Lessons in a Martial Context
Review: In this book, Sensei Funakoshi outlines the philosophical benchmarks that exemplify the way a true Do practitioner should live and think. He has provided here an invaluable resource, not only for lessons inside of the dojo- but for outside as well. I must emphasize that books like these, in general, are not only for the instructor Sensei, but should ESPECIALLY be looked at by sometimes confused students (kyu) who need guidance at times with understanding how their dojo training can continue outside of class as well. These lessons are simple in nature, but upon closer review, along with commentaries to go with them, one may find deeper meanings in Funakoshi's few words- making the lessons so easy, yet just that hard as well. Each principle is complimented, again, by insightful commentary, and shown with beautiful calligraphy which in and of itself bring an elegance, style, and simplicity to this beautiful book.

Rating:
Summary: Short but sweet
Review: This elegant book is a great treatise on the spiritual and mental aspects of traditional karate. Funakoshi, founder of the Shotokan School outlines the principles he felt exemplified the true spirit of karate. This is not "how to" book nor is it about technique. It is, however, an insightful easy read. I recommend it for those students who are interested in the deeper meaning of martial arts beyond just the techniques. I only wish it was longer.

Lawrence Kane
Author of Martial Arts Instruction: Applying Educational Theory and Communication Techniques in the Dojo