Jita Kyoei
What is Jita Kyoei?
"Jita Kyoei" is another fundamental principle in Judo, also developed by its founder, Jigoro Kano. The phrase can be translated from Japanese as "mutual welfare and benefit." This concept emphasizes the importance of cooperation, respect, and working together for the mutual benefit of all individuals involved.
In practical terms, Jita Kyoei means:
- Mutual Respect: Treating training partners, opponents, and others with respect and dignity. This fosters a positive and supportive environment where everyone can learn and grow.
- Cooperation: Working together with others to improve skills, techniques, and understanding. In Judo practice, this means helping your training partners improve, as their improvement will, in turn, help you improve.
- Community and Society: Applying the principles of mutual benefit beyond the dojo (training hall) to contribute positively to society. This involves using the lessons learned in Judo to promote harmony, understanding, and cooperation in daily life.
Jita Kyoei reflects Jigoro Kano's vision of Judo as more than just a martial art; it is a way of life that promotes personal development and contributes to the well-being of the community. By adhering to this principle, practitioners of Judo aim to create a better world through mutual understanding and cooperation.
Related Article: Judo: The Gentle Way of Overcoming Opponents
Judo is the way to the most effective use of both physical and spiritual strength. By training you in attacks and defenses it refines your body and your soul and helps you make the spiritual essence of Judo a part of your very being. In this way you are able to perfect yourself and contribute something of value to the world. This is the final goal of Judo discipline.
Kano Jigoro