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The Meaning of Jiu Jitsu
The phraseJiu Jitsu can be written in various ways. The most common seen
in the western world are shown below:
- Jiu Jitsu
- Jiu Jutsu
- Ju Jutsu
This difference in spelling occurs only because there is no definitive way to
write Japanese words in "English" or even our alphabet. Similarly there is a
certain fuzzy approach to the translation of the words.
Ju
Ju has the meaning of relaxation and yielding - a gentleness. The idea of this
in relation to a martial art can be understood by taking the classic analagy of
the Willow tree with it's supple branches...
If you apply a force to a Willow branch, it bends yet it does not break. It
yields to the force and yet does not break. Release the force on the branch,
and the force is directed back as the branch whips back into place.
Jitsu
Jitsu conveys the image of a style and art form. Essentially something taken
to its highest level. In the instance of the martial arts interpretation, Jitsu
refers to the movement and style of martial technique.
Jiu Jitsu
From this we can derive a general meaning of a gentle or yielding art form. Jiu
Jitsu is a martial art where the key principle is that of using minimal power
and maximum technique to defeat an opponent. The more the opponent fights with
force, the more force the Jitsu student has to use against their opponent.
Therefore every jitsuka should bear the following principles in mind
when they are using their Jiu Jitsu:
The Principles of Yielding
- When forces collide there is destruction.
- A large force needs only a small force to redirect it.
- Yielding is more effective than resisting.
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