Zen in the Martial Arts

By Joe Hyams

As recommended by Steve Borthwick

The martial arts, in their finest form, are much more than a physical contest between two opponents - a means of imposing ones will or inflicting damage upon another. Rather, for the true master, karate, kung fu, aikido, wing-chun and all the other martial arts are essentially avenues through which they can achieve spiritual serenity, mental tranquility and the deepest self-confidence.

The role of Zen in the martial arts defies easy definition because Zen has no theory; it is an inner knowing for which there is no clearly stated dogma. The Zen of martial arts deemphasizes the power of the intellect and extols that of intuitive action.

It's ultimate aim is to free the individual from anger, illusion and false passion. Hyams emphasizes crucial aspects of the martial arts that have been all but lost since their import into the West: the Zen objectives of serenity of spirit, tranquility of mind, and firmness of will.