The purpose of the study of judo is to perfect yourself and to contribute to society.
Interpretation
The study of judo aims for personal improvement while also benefiting society.
Kano Jigoro emphasizes that the practice of judo transcends mere physical combat; it is a journey of self-improvement and character development that also encourages individuals to contribute positively to their communities. Through the disciplined study of judo, practitioners not only seek personal excellence but also embrace a responsibility to uplift those around them, illustrating the interconnectedness of personal and societal growth.
In practice
In a speech about personal development, one might say this quote to illustrate the importance of self-betterment.
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.
Nothing under the sun is greater than education. By educating one person and sending him into the society of his generation, we make a contribution extending a hundred generations to come.
The teaching of one virtuous person can influence many; that which has been learned well by one generation can be passed on to a hundred.
Judo should be free as art and science from any external influences, political, national, racial, and financial or any other organized interest. And all things connected with it should be directed to its ultimate object, the benefit of Humanity.
Before and after practicing Judo or engaging in a match, opponents bow to each other. Bowing is an expression of gratitude and respect. In effect, you are thanking your opponent for giving you the opportunity to improve your technique.
Education is the basic tool for the development of consciousness and the reconstitution of society.
The ideas gained by men before they are twenty-five are practically the only ideas they shall have in their lives.
Teachers teach because they care. Teaching young people is what they do best. It requires long hours, patience, and care.
It is a press, certainly, but a press from which shall flow in inexhaustible streamsThrough it, God will spread His Word. A spring of truth shall flow from it: like a new star it shall scatter the darkness of ignorance, and cause a light heretofore unknown to shine amongst men.
The one experience that I hope every student has at some point in their lives is to have some belief you profoundly, deeply hold, proved to be wrong because that is the most eye-opening experience you can have, and as a scientist, to me, is the most exciting experience I can ever have.
I have a big problem with people who glamorize dumbness and demonize education and intellect. And I'm giving a pretty good description of Sarah Palin right now.
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