Fighting, Spirituality, and Martial Arts
Fighting, Spirituality, and Martial Arts Primarily, by millenium practice and definition, martial arts is about physical conflict, fighting. Four questions to ponder and answer; 1.) But why is it that religion, such as Taosim, Buddhsim, Hinduism, seem to partake within its structure? 2.) How does one obtain a manner of spiritualty by obtaining a manner of fighting prowess? 3.) Why are the spiritual aspects of martial arts considered pusillanimous? 4.) Is it about fighting and kicking butt? Or about refraining from fighting and kicking butt?

Hello 47MartialMan, You posted, “Primarily, by millenium practice and definition, martial arts is about physical conflict, fighting. You posted, “1.) But why is it that religion, such as Taosim, Buddhsim, Hinduism, seem to partake within its structure?” If I understand you correctly, I believe that such religions believe that causing no harm works only until someone tries to harm you. Then fighting to defend oneself works well and is morally justified. You posted, “2.) How does one obtain a manner of spiritualty by obtaining a manner of fighting prowess?” As I understand it, Letting go of the conscious decision making processes and allowing the body to work can be considered spiritual. This usually does not happen under duress naturally. Effective fighting reflexes are not “natural” processes. Learning and training them is very difficult. It requires that training be emotional, spiritual and mental as well as physical in nature. You posted, “3.) Why are the spiritual aspects of martial arts considered pusillanimous?” I believe that young guys first training in manly arts are generally not very timid. Or they are timid and would prefer not to be. As they get older, they drop out before they realize that there is more to offer than violence. Also, there are those who hide behind the mask of spirituality because they are bad Martial Artists. They end up giving a bad name to the spiritual side of the arts. You posted, “4.) Is it about fighting and kicking butt? Or about refraining from fighting and kicking butt?” Yes. Actually, it’s about both. To be totally violent is as bad as being totally non violent. A balance should be sought after through training. Regards, MrE2Me2 Without prejudice E&OE

This has much to do with people in religion. I have spoken to many people of many religions; Christians, Buddhists, Hindu, Shintoists, Janists, and they seem to not like the idea of martial arts and religion. No because of physcial confrontations, per violence, but many seem to not want to be distracted In the mid 70's, the "almighty internet" wasn't available, there were books, mags, and a few movies about martial arts like temple monks. As I started to find information at Universites (Professors/Historians/Scholars) and even visting local/nearest temples, I had contacted many people throguh personal interviews and correspondance (snail mail). This curiousity stemmned from wnated to know why martial arts entwined with religion and the first step or phase of research was how Buddhist monks could be involved in martial arts. Could there be such a thing as Buddhist Monk Fighters, as Chritianity had the Crusaders. What are your thoughts about Shaolin, then and now, and the idea of Buddhists and Christians practicing martial arts perhaps going against their spirituality.

It was my understanding that a fighter who believed he was closely connected to "god" was a more effective fighter. He was able to concentrate on the opponent more, instead of having to fight his own fears. For those religions that don't have a "god", the basic principle still holds true. Concentration on the opponent instead of struggling with one's one fear is a very sought after objective.

Perhaps why the Samurai adapted/practiced Zen

Hello 47MartialMan, The Samurai took to Zen because its spartan efficacy worked for them as warriors. These guys worked so close to the edge that spiritual matters had to be dealt with in the same way that they dealt with any other matter. Having a connection with "the void" or "God" or "Allah" is all the same thing. In my opinion, it is having a connection with the universe in a spiritual manner that is what counts. The dialect that one chooses is simply a matter of personal preference. Regards, MrE2Me2 Without prejudice E&OE

Yeah, the Samurai had many influence intwined with spiritual perhaps no different than the Crusaders

Hello 47MartialMan, I'd have to disagree with the comparison of Samurai to Crusaders. It was my understanding that the Samurai were consumed with the idea of "obligation" or "giri" to ones Daimyo or clan. On the other hand, the Crusaders were interested in profit and the acquisition of power. The spiritual aspects were nothing but an excuse for plundering a rich foreign land. I can't think of a good comparison right now but when I do, I'll post it. I sent you a private message. Did you get it? Regards, MrE2Me2