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.
Once children learn how to learn, nothing is going to narrow their mind. The essence of teaching is to make learning contagious, to have one idea spark another.
The reading of books, what is it but conversing with the wisest men of all ages and all countries.
Insensibly he formed the most delightful habit in the world, the habit of reading: he did not know that thus he was providing himself with a refuge from all the distress of life; he did not know either that he was creating for himself an unreal world which would make the real world of every day a source of bitter disappointment.
My message was 'Think African. Make schools read African history.'
From that time on, the world was hers for the reading. She would never be lonely again, never miss the lack of intimate friends. Books became her friends and there was one for every mood.
The magic is only in what books say, how they stitched the patches of the universe together into one garment for us.
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