The word karate means “empty hand.” When Japanese rulers banned weapons in the 17th century, Okinawans developed a way to fight with hands and feet powerful enough to break through samurai armor.

By 1901, the quiet art of Okinawan-te began to spread. Gichin Funakoshi (1868–1957), now known as the father of modern karate, brought the practice to mainland Japan through his teaching and poetry.

“Seek perfection of character, be faithful, endeavor, respect others, and refrain from violent behavior,” he taught.

Funakoshi signed his poems as Shoto, or “small pine forest.” His method became known as Shotokan—Shoto’s school. He believed kata, or form, was not a sport but an art—a path to spiritual refinement.

His writings shared the values he held dear: humility, balance, and the unity of mind (shin), technique (gi), and body (tai).

“Do not think you have to win,” he wrote. “Think that you do not have to lose.”

The art of karate is a celebration of intention, discipline, and purpose — a path walked with heart. Through mindful movement and quiet strength, it becomes a way to honor life itself. As martial artist Bruce Lee echoed: “Absorb what is useful, reject what is useless, and add what is specifically your own.”