KYOKUSHIN KARATE
The Strongest Karate
SOSAI MAS OYAMA
Founder of Kyokushin Karate - 10th Dan
July 27, 1923 - April 26, 1994
Sosai Masutatsu Oyama was a legendary martial artist and the founder of Kyokushin Karate, one of the most influential full-contact karate styles in the world.
Born in 1923 as Choi Yeong-Eui in Korea, Mas Oyama moved to Japan and dedicated his life to martial arts, particularly karate.
Mas Oyama's journey in karate began under the tutelage of Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate. He later studied Goju-ryu Karate under Gogen Yamaguchi.
Determined to push his limits, Mas Oyama famously isolated himself in the mountains for intense training, first for 18 months on Mount Minobu and later for another year on Mount Kiyosumi.
Known for his incredible strength and indomitable spirit, Mas Oyama gained worldwide recognition for his remarkable feats, including fighting and defeating 52 bulls in demonstrations of his power.
He earned the nickname "Godhand" due to his ability to defeat opponents with a single strike.
In 1953, Mas Oyama began developing his own style of karate, which he would later name Kyokushin, meaning "Ultimate Truth".
Kyokushin Karate is characterized by its emphasis on full-contact sparring, rigorous training, and powerful techniques.
Mas Oyama's philosophy stressed the importance of combining physical and mental strength, embodied in the maxim "Ichi geki, Hissatsu" (one strike, certain death).
Throughout his life, Mas Oyama authored numerous books on karate, conducted worldwide demonstrations, and established a global network of Kyokushin dojos.
By the time of his death in 1994, Kyokushin had become one of the largest martial arts organizations in the world, with millions of practitioners across the globe.
Sosai Mas Oyama's legacy continues to inspire martial artists worldwide, and Kyokushin Karate remains a testament to his unwavering dedication to the pursuit of martial arts excellence.
THE SYMBOLS OF KYOKUSHIN
KANJI
The Kyokushin kanji (極真) represents the name of the martial art style founded by Sosai Mas Oyama.
It consists of three characters:
- Kyoku (極): Meaning "Ultimate"
- Shin (真): Meaning "Truth" or "Reality"
- Kai (会): Meaning "Society" or "Association"
Together, these characters convey the philosophy of Kyokushin as a pursuit of the ultimate truth in martial arts, emphasizing self-improvement, discipline, and rigorous training.
The kanji is commonly displayed on the front of the gi worn by practitioners, symbolizing their commitment to the principles of the art.
KANKU
The Kanku symbol (観空) is a significant emblem in Kyokushin Karate, representing the philosophy and techniques of this martial art.
The term "Kanku" translates to "contemplate the sky," and the symbol itself is derived from the Kanku Dai kata, known as the "Sky Gazing" form.
Symbol Structure and Meaning
The Kanku symbol features a stylized representation of hands raised towards the sky, with the thumbs and forefingers forming a diamond shape. This configuration symbolizes the act of gazing at the sun, which is central to the philosophy of Kyokushin, reflecting themes of life and peacefulness.
The circle at the center represents the sun, while the overall design is enclosed in a larger circle, signifying continuity and the cyclical nature of life and training.
Historical Context
The Kanku symbol is not only a representation of the martial art itself but also serves as the family crest of Masutatsu Oyama, the founder of Kyokushin. This connection adds a layer of personal and cultural significance, as it embodies the legacy of Mas Oyama and his teachings.
The symbol predates the establishment of Kyokushin, being part of Oyama's family heritage, which underscores its deep-rooted importance in the practice and philosophy of the martial art.
The Kanku symbol encapsulates the essence of Kyokushin Karate, merging physical technique with philosophical depth, while also honoring the legacy of its founder.
