Karate Do
A Book Report by Samantha van Zyl

Writing a paper about a great karate master like Gichin Funakoshi may be difficult, considering his many accomplishments, special qualities and admirable characteristics, but I will do my best.

In 1868 Gichin Funakoshi’s mother gave birth to him prematurely, in Shuri, Okinawa. During his childhood, he led a sickly and fragile life. Due to a new government trying to westernize this region, karate became illegal. In that time period, in order to practice Karate-Do, it was necessary to learn in secret. At the recommendation of the family doctor, Tokashiki, Gichin met masters Azoto and Itosu to receive Karate-Do lessons, which improved his health dramatically. So in the middle of the night, Gichin began to sneak to his master and mentor’s house, to learn the art of Karate-Do.

The do in Karate-Do implies that Karate is a path to self-knowledge, not just a study of the technical aspects of fighting. So, Gichin made a choice to walk that path. As he developed into a young man he grew stronger physically, mentally and spiritually.

Physically, he became able to walk long distances, he exercised daily, and perfected and excelled in the art of Karate-Do. Mentally, he went to school and became well educated. Eventually, he applied to medical school and was accepted, however, he chose to become a teacher in 1891 or 1892 instead. Spiritually, Master Funakoshi followed Buddhism. His spiritual walk became a big part of his life. He prayed regularly and he believed in The Twenty Prospects and Confucian ethics.

Although Master Funakoshi follows a different path than I do, him believing in Buddhism and I in Christianity, we believe in many of the same values. Gichin and I both believe that courtesy is a necessity to live a happy and peaceful life. Some of the characteristics that I respect in Master Funakoshi are patience, truthfulness, and self-control. These are all qualities that I strive to obtain. Of course, we both have a deep love for karate also!

Master Funakoshi supported his wife, his parents, and grandparents, as well as himself on a teacher’s salary. The salary he received each month totaled three yen. Surviving on this small amount of income shows how much he cared for his family.

My family plays a monumental part in my life as well. They provide everything that I need physically, mentally and with the help of Jesus, spiritually. They support me in whatever I decide to do and I am very grateful for every single one of them. Besides the love of Karate, Master Funakoshi and I also share a great love for our families. I love my family with all of my heart, and I would give up anything I have for any of them!