Five Main Points of Judo

Five Main Points of Judo according to Kyuzo Mifune

ONLY THE ACTIONS OF A FLEXIBLE MIND AND BODY CAN DEFEAT STRENGTH AND RIGIDITY-The word flexible does not imply weakness at all. Instead, “broadminded” and “adaptable” are closer to the true meaning. Thus, the main principle of judo is to discover the inherent benevolence of humans in an ever expanding natural world, and to embody true freedom of human thought and action.
[/*:m:3iwneijg]
DISPLAY THE MOST DYNAMIC ENERGY IN THE WORST SITUATION-Judo equips you with the freedom to move from a flexible state of body and mind without being trapped or caught by anything. So, in the face of danger you can immediately react to avert danger with a wide variety of movements, depending on the time and circumstance. Danger often occurs unexpectedly; this tends to be the very worst kind of situation. Judo equips you to deal well with unexpected danger. Even in the hardest of circumstances, you will detect your opponent’s vulnerability immediately and be able to change your posture in a split second, thus rendering an opponent’s attack ineffective, and overcoming him easily.
[/*:m:3iwneijg]
NEGLIGENCE IS THE EQUIVALENT OF LACKING FIXED PRINCIPLES-Turning a disadvantage to an advantage is a subtle art, but you cannot be negligent for even a moment. If you persist in one action or thought, your agility will be compromised and you will lose awareness of your surroundings. Something unexpected will occur, and then you will be defeated. In all situations you should have a free, adaptable, and calm spirit.
[/*:m:3iwneijg]
NEVER HOLD TO A FIXED IDEA, EXIST IN A SELFLESS STATE-You must never rely on anything when executing a technique. If you try to anticipate the result based on the advantages and disadvantages of the environment, situation, your strength, or any other factor, you will effectively lose your courage. You will be left with a tremendous feeling of regret, because reliance or anticipation will always betray you. Do not fear a stronger opponent, maintain a pure and selfless mind, then your action will be unobstructed, and will express limitless adaptability.
[/*:m:3iwneijg]
NEVER MAKE LIGHT OF TRIVIAL MATTERS, INSTEAD HAVE A FAITHFUL HEART-If your mind ignores anything, large or small, this will inevitable bring about your defeat. This notion is identical to “fear of an opponent,” whereby one’s full capacity for strength becomes diminished. When facing trouble, a firm and unhesitating spirit is essential for the execution of a suitable technique. If the heart is impatient, for example, to win, then the truth of that moment will not be grasped. Truth is a dynamic, free, and natural element. It should be understood that it always exists within every human. So, if you have a sincere heart, you can achieve great things without effort.[/*:m:3iwneijg]