The Way of the Samurai Sword : Kendo and its origins

For anyone considering getting into the Japanese martial arts, and even for those who are already practitioners, a clear understanding of where their sport started is important. The budo we will look at today is Kendo. The word Kendo comes from two Japanese words: ken meaning sword, and do meaning way or path. The word translates to English with a literal meaning "the way of the sword". As an a budo, kendo is actually one of the newer forms of Japanese sword practice.

THE ORIGINS OF KENDO

Kendo developed from the more traditional practice of Kenjutsu. It made its appearance in its modern form in the mid eighteenth century. The traditional form of sword practice used real swords, and injuries were not uncommon. There was a need for a safer form of sword practice. To accomplish this, Nakanishi Chuta created Kendo.

This new form of sword practice used bambo swords (shinai), and included protective gear (kote, do, tare, men). With practice swords, and full protective gear, practitioners were able to deliver full blows without fear of injury. This created a requirement for new regulations and more formal practice formats. This was where Kendo really got started.

MAJOR DEVELOPMENTS IN THE WAY OF THE SWORD

With the art of Kendo beginning in the mid eighteenth century, it really grew from there. Here are some of the major developments:

1. In 1895, the Butokukai, was formed (an organization dedicated to the Japanese martial arts).

2. In 1911 Kendo was introduced to the physical education system of middle schools.

3. Official regulations, the Nihon Kendo Kata, were published in 1912.

4. In 1939, before WWII, Kendo became a required course for all boys.

5. After the war, Kendo and most of the other military arts, were outlawed in Japan.

6. In 1952 supporters of Kendo re-established a sport form of the art, that didn't include the militaristic attitudes.

KENDO TODAY

In the world today, there are thousands of people who practice Kendo. Many martial artists seek out this particular budo for sport, to build discipline, and to help build character. As a Japanese sword art, it is the biggest in the world today. Today's Kendo is administered by the Japan Kendo Association, the International Kendo Association, and many other country specific associations around the world.

The ideals may have changed since its beginnings, but one thing remains. Kendo is a sport steeped in tradition, and that tradition can help anyone build character while enjoying a sport that is a lot of fun!