Training for Saya no Naka No Kachi by Masayuki Shimabukuro, Hanshi

Sep 27, 2010 By
Shimabukuro

The phrase “saya no naka no kachi”, victory while the sword is still in the saya, should be familiar to most practitioners of Muso Jikiden Eishin-ryu Iaijutsu in theKNBK/JKI. In fact, the meaning of “saya no naka no kachi” is one of the questions in the written portion of the test for shodan in Muso Jikiden Eishin-ryu. Most everyone knows what translation of “saya no naka no kachi” is; it sounds so good, so “philosophical”, but how many really know what the concept of “victory while the sword is still in the saya” means? Moreover, how do we train for “victory while the sword is still in the saya”? How do we actualize “saya no naka no kachi”in our daily lives? As indicated above, the translation of “saya no naka no kachi” is “victory while the sword is still in the saya”, meaning attaining victory without drawing and cutting; defeating an enemy without killing; victory without violence or confrontation. A noble sounding view of budo ethics, it … [Read more...]

On Choosing a Sword by Masayuki Shimabukuro, Hanshi

Apr 28, 2009 By

On Choosing a Sword by Masayuki Shimabukuro, Hanshi        Muso Jikiden Eishin-ryu, as we all know, is classified as a system of iaijutsu. However, we must remember that iaijutsu, although indicative of the prevailing strategies behind the use ofthe sword, is a component of kenjutsu. In short, as a complete sword art, iaijutsu cannot exist in separation from kenjutsu.     Many iaijutsu waza were codified to transmit strategies and methods of simultaneous defense and counters against surprise attacks, as opposed to techniques of combat that begin after swords have already been drawn. As I alluded to above, Muso Jikiden Eishin-ryu contains extensive practice in both aspects of sword combat. That being said, it should stand to reason that the sword a practitioner chooses should be suitable for each aspect or “mode” of our art. It would be neither logical nor practicable to require one sword for situations requiring “iai techniques” and another for “kenjutsu … [Read more...]

JKI Focus for 2009: A Deeper Expression of Budo

Feb 5, 2009 By
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JKI Focus for 2009: A Deeper Expression of Budo   As we draw to the close of one year and look forward to the beginning of the next, I would like to ask that in 2009, all Jikishin-Kai members focus on a deeper understanding of Budo. This focus has two components, namely a greater understanding of etiquette based on sincerity, and, particularly for yudansha, a more advanced practice of waza that reflects a deeper understanding of the meaning or, riai, of the waza. As I have previously discussed, Budo is an effective and deeply meaningful vehicle for the cultivation of morals, respect and etiquette. And while we all understand the significance of etiquette, I want to make sure that, as budoka, indeed, as inheritors of the samurai way, everyone looks deeper into the necessity of etiquette and respect, and cultivates an expression of deeper understanding in their daily lives. Please remember that a teacher and a friend are not, and should not be, the same thing. One may make many friends … [Read more...]