"It is possible to explain the water, but doing so the mouth will not become wet
It is possible to fully explain the nature of fire, but doing so the mouth will not become warm
Water and fire are known only by touching them
Hardly one will gain knowledge through the explanation of an other"
(Takuan Soho)
Kendo is an amazing and ancient martial Art.
Until 1500, the two most important weapons were the sword and the bow.
With the arrive of firearms in '600, military archery schools (Kyu-jitsu-ryu) were the first to transform the military use (jitsu) of the bow in Kyudo, that is "the way of archery", practicing a discipline without practical use but with the goal of self control and inward growth, under the influence of "ZEN" philosophy, the religion more worshipped by Samurai. Following this example, also other martial school began to transform the martial use of weapons in trainings for spiritual growth. So, from Kenjitsu evolved Kendo.
The attitude of mind, techniques, different teaching methods developed over the years from different schools, have been passed down to our days and were merged into one educational practice that still contains all the features of the past.
In 1975 the All Japan Kendo Federation established the basic objectives of the practice of kendo, namely:
- To mold the mind and body;
- To cultivate a vigorous spirit, through a correct and rigid training;
- To strive for improvement in the art of Kendo;
- Learn how to maintain an attitude of courtesy and honor;
- To associate with others with honesty, always pursuing the improvement of themselves.
This will make the person capable of loving others, their Country and society, to contribute to cultural development and to promote peace and prosperity among the people. But many words are of little use, the practice of kendo is a path which is difficult to explain, the only way is the action.