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2. The Meaning of Karatedo

Thus karatedo literally means "the way to self-perfection through the practice of techniques originating during the T'ang period."

Thus, another sense of karatedo is “the way to self-perfection through the practice of techniques of emptiness," emptiness being understood both physically (without weapons) and mentally (with an empty or free mind).

It is unfortunate that when karate was introduced to Japan, the rising nationalism and antagonism against China at the time of the Sino-Japanese War (1894-95) led some karate instructors to deny karate its first meaning, retaining only the sense of "empty-hand fighting." By doing so they excluded from karatedo one of its important components, buki-ho.

3. The Value of Karatedo

Karatedo is essentially a martial art (budo) and as such it is also a means of reaching the "way" (do) by the ‘‘practice of weapons" (bu). As in any other martial art, karatedo is, and requires, a solid discipline. The body must go through long and strenuous exercises for many years. This develops not only a strong body but also great strength of character. Control is required over not only one's techniques but also emotions such as fear, pain, and hate. As a fighting art, karatedo involves the confrontation of two wills, each determined to win. This develops such qualities as fortitude, but also humility and respect for oneself and others.