TMAI - History & Traditions

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  ABOUT THE OWNER

I have taught martial arts for more than 15 years; owned my own school since 2011; successfully competed in tournaments across the nation; studied with many so-called “greats” in the Philippines, South Korea, and across America; and earned a PhD in Philosophy studying and applying martial arts principles to the solution of both personal and business dilemmas. My training, studies, and research continue, and forever will. 

CONSIDER THIS...

One of the most important lessons in martial arts training; a better understanding of the historical and philosophical lineage of our martial arts tradition – from Chinese Boxing (Kung Fu) to Taekwondo. I will begin by asking you to imagine the following: 

While walking along a road, an individual comes upon a building that has been placed in a prominent location to ensure its recognition and subsequent identification. It becomes immediately clear that it is a place of importance and significance. The building’s distinguishing features suggest that important activities occur within the building, evoking a sense of history and tradition. It is obvious that extreme care has been taken over the years, in an effort to maintain the facility in its pristine condition. 

Judging by the sounds coming from within, it is also apparent that the people occupying this place are committed to their community. Their voices are loud, boisterous and clear – further indicative of their commitment to the activities within. The volume of the sounds rises and falls, while the speed periodically increases and decreases—sometimes in a rhythmic manner, often seemingly systematic or as if it has been a previously rehearsed activity that is common and often repeated. 

Upon entering the building, the individual observes that the group of people is focused on the one individual who is leading the activities—they respond to his commands as though he holds some sort of power over them. The attire worn by the people is indicative of participation in a dedicated, singularly-focused activity, with an apparent dress code. Some of the clothing incorporates symbolic ornamentation suggests the existence of a hierarchical structure within the group. The leader provides more than instruction. In his delivery, the leader educates the group and, ultimately, reinforces and reaffirms the individual’s beliefs and commitment to the activity. It is also apparent that these resulting associated beliefs directly influence the participants’ life goals and decision-making processes. 

Hanging on the wall, behind the instructor, are two large signs written in Chinese lettering, which read “Shim Shin Soo Ryun” (on the left) and “Ye Si Ye Jong” (on the right), with simplified translation of “Train the body and the mind” and “Respect First – Respect Last”, respectively. 

These two kanji (Japanese writing using Chinese characters) are specifically associated with the Korean martial art of Taekwondo, and have been prominently displayed in every generation of schools, from GGM Park (South Korea), GM Park (South Korea, and Park’s Taekwondo, Fort Worth, TX), GM Kurban (American Black Belt Academy, Arlington, TX), and Shaun House (Traditional Martial Arts Institute, Arlington, TX). In fact, all Black Belts from Traditional Martial Arts Institute wear a distinctive Black Belt that has these kanji-embroidered; one on each end of the belt displayed as they hang on the wall; “Shim Shin Soo Ryun” (on the left) and “Ye Si Ye Jong” (on the right), as you are look, when directly facing them. When students wear the belt, they effectively stand in the place of the Jidokwan symbol, on the wall (as pictured above) – upholding all of its principles of Goodness and proper character. 

Our school mantra is, “Our success is not determined by wins or losses, but by perfection of technique, development of character, and our commitment to Never Quit!” One major goal of this paper is to explain the findings of my research, which indicates that when combined together, the meaning is interpreted as: 

Train our whole self (body, mind, and spirit), with a continued awareness and ensuring of (ji) proper application of any technique; having considered both functional capability and ballistic impact, and (ri) the uniquely, personal motivating force that first inspired the sincerely thoughtful need to execute any given technique, in a specific way, at a given moment – all with a unique attitude and demonstration of proper respect for others and, importantly, one’s own self. 

OUR TRADITION

Our original tradition is the Tang Soo Do – Jidokwan “style,” for lack of a better term, which we will later see, ultimately, became the Taekwondo Jidokwan style, which is the original lens through which we investigate our understanding of these concepts. For a better understanding, let’s break down each of the three images hanging on the wall (picture above), which – when put together – make up the true essence of the original Korean martial arts traditions, while providing hints of the direct historical influences that preceded and contributed to the it’s general, overall philosophy: 

Shim Shin Soo Ryun   (ABOVE - LEFT SIDE) 

An attitude and philosophical approach that embraces the fundamental need to “training the body and the mind,” which is a loose translation. This is based upon the concepts of Ri (reason, strategy, and purpose) and Ji (technical execution, force, and power), which should be utilized together, in order to achieve the most effective training. 

Ye Si Y Jong  (ABOVE - RIGHT SIDE) 

“Respect in the beginning; respect in the end; respect in all that we do,” is our mantra. It is a comprehensive, respectful approach in our Way (chosen path to achieving our life's purpose). This is consistent with the original Okinawan and Japanese martial arts philosophy; particularly, Gichin Funakoshi’s first principle of his famous ‘Twenty Guiding Principles of Karate – “Do not forget that karate-do begins and ends with rei (respect).” This is a different kind of “respect” that embraces an attitude of respect for other and, more importantly, of yourself; especially, in the way that you approach all activities, which is discussed in greater detail later. 

Jidokwan Symbol 

Jidokwan translates to “The Wisdom Way School” or “The School of Wisdom” – it is somewhat ironic that I ended up studying a martial arts “style” with a stated purpose that is the study of wisdom; particularly, since I am a Philosopher. Interestingly, the origin of the term “philosophy” is based upon the Greek term philosophia, which is further translated to mean “Lover (Seekers) of Wisdom.” 

Roly-poly- the red center piece represents the concept of “fall down seven times; get up eight.” 

Eight petals – the eight blue flower petals represents the lotus flow, which in most Buddhist traditions signifies the “eight-fold path” tradition, Additionally, by implication, this includes the Buddhists’ ” four noble truths”: 

Four Noble Truths 

1. Life is suffering; 

2. Suffering is caused by attachment; 

3. To end suffering, eliminate attachment; and, 

4. Follow the eight-fold path. 

Eight-fold Path 

1. Right view (understanding); 

2. Right intention; 

3. Right speech; 

4. Right action; 

5. Right livelihood; 

6. Right effort’ 

7. Right concentration; and 

8. Right mindfulness. 

Chung Do Kwon 

The meaning of “Chung Do Kwon” is the “Blue Wave School”, which emphasized the unstoppable strength and nature of the ocean’s waves. It is also commonly interpreted as” the youthful Way.” It may be extrapolated as emphasizing the importance of keeping the “white belt mind” – meaning that we should always be ready and open to new understandings. This is the origin of the Jhoon Rhee system that was later expanded under the Taekwondo sport karate approach. 

OUR HISTORY 

Traditional Martial Arts 

I have traced our lineage from its origins in the China Shaolin Temples, up to current activities, including Taekwondo and Sport Karate. This further contributes to a deeper understanding of martial arts philosophy and training. Included below is a chart that demonstrates our lineal history and provides more specific dates and other information. I will begin with a general overview. 

To be clear, martial arts began in Fujan, China, with the original creation of White Crane Kung Fu and Monkey Boxing. Through individuals involved in the shipping trade industry, these martial arts slowly made their way to Okinawa resulting in the original Goju-Ryu and Shorin-Ryu traditions. Eventually, Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan karate, known as the “father of modern-day karate”, brought his art to Japan and its universities. In fact, “Shoto” was 

Funakoshi’s pen name for writing and poetry. Shotokan simply translates to “the Way of Shoto.” 

One of Master Funakoshi’s best friends and mentors was Master Jigoro Kano, the founder of the martial arts of Judo. As an aside, Kano’s most famous student was Maeda, who traveled to Brazil and, ultimately, taught Carlos Gracie, Sr. what would later be developed into the Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. In fact, it was Kano who arranged for the infamous demonstration that Funakoshi performed for the Emperor of Japan, which ultimately led to Funakoshi relocating to and opening a school in Japan. Both Funakoshi and Kano emphasized the importance of the role that martial arts should play in its practitioners’ individual lives; this is “budo” – the virtuous approach to martial arts. Funakoshi and Kano both believed that the purpose of martial arts is personal development. 

Master Funakoshi was notorious for emphasizing that martial arts, without budo, is just sport; it ceases to be martial arts endeavor. We must remember that he was born in 1868 as a member of the Samurai class. In considering this, it is important to remember the underlying Samurai philosophy and traditions; amongst them is what might be consider most significant – embracing the beginning of each day with the acceptance of their own potential death. This was the world they lived in, and acceptance was freeing; as it results in the elimination of “attachment” in the form of expectations and many other judgments. The significance here is that this helps to explain the emphasis Funakoshi placed on personal development. Imagine living in a time where your life is always under the threat of physical harm by bandits, or the ongoing and more general concerns of war. Now, further imagine how people felt while living through these types of desperate times and circumstances, with the scarcity of food, goods, and other materials. 

The only similar example, in our current time, would be something like a pandemic where people cannot work, forced to close their businesses, experience diminishing income, scarcity of meat products and toilet paper, as well as other constraints on liberty and freedom of movement. It is in times like these when people’s true character (or lack thereof) is revealed. Importantly, this also explains the significant need for personal development and demonstration of self-control. The following is the general lineage of our martial arts history, beginning with Chinese Kung Fu and ending in American Karate/Taekwondo: 

China (Wushu/Kung Fu) → Okinawa (Goju Ryu) → Japan (Shotokan) → South Korea 

(Tang Soo Do/Taekwondo) → America (Taekwondo/American Karate) 

Many of the original Korean martial arts masters completed their training, while studying in Japan. Many were attending college and obtained their Black Belts in Japanese Karate, while there. These future Masters returned home to Korea and opened their Tang Soo Do (Korean karate) schools where they taught Japanese karate. Two of these schools were Tang Soo Do – Jidokwan school and Tang Soo Do – Chung Do Kwan school. Both of the schools’ founders trained directly under Master Gichin Funakoshi and incorporated his philosophy in their teaching. Eventually, these and other Tang Soo Do schools joined together to create a national martial arts sport with an emphasis on the hybrid style of Taekwondo – a “Sport Karate” in its genesis. This support was extremely successful and eventually spread throughout the world, including the United States of America; ultimately, becoming an Olympic Sport, in 2000. One other variation of this “sport karate” developed into what has come to be called America Karate. 

Sport Karate 

In Korea, Sport Karate began with the creation of Taekwondo, by unifying the various Tang Soo Do kwans (schools), under the guise of a national sport tradition. Many schools moved away from the budo application to all aspects of life, and, instead focused on sports applications – with some residual benefit. Then, the sport was later expanded to other countries, even to excess – e.g. David Moon in Mexico with more than 450 schools), which the epitome of Sport Karate. 

As mentioned, Master Funakoshi’s influence has survived the many derivations of what would become different “styles” over the years. Jidokwan’s founder studied directly under Gichin Funakoshi, and also had a Black Belt in Japanese Karate (likely Okinawan Goju Ryu). Specifically, as it relates to the Jidokwan system, Funakoshi’s philosophy is ever-present when you walk into the dojang (school) and see the “Ye Si Ye Jong” kanji framed in large characters on the wall – “Respect first – respect last – respect in all that we do,” which is Master Funakoshi’s admonishment in the first of his twenty guiding principles; “Do not forget that karate-do begins and ends with rei (respect).” Therefore, Master Funakoshi and Anko Itosu (his instructor) are possibly the origin of the “Ye Si Ye Jong” philosophy, and this is why it was a fundamental principle to hang these proud reminders in your school; emphasizing the ideology that traditional martial arts is fundamentally and inherently about personal development – not solely combat. 

This concept likely survives many generations of martial arts practitioners. For the sake of a fuller understanding, please consider this: Master Funakoshi studied under Anko Itosu (who created the five basic Pinan katas to be taught in schools) and Anko Asoto. Both studied under Bushi Sokon (one of the original Okinawan masters). Sokon studied Okinawa Te (precursor to karate) under Master Chatan Yara , who first studied Okinawa Te under Master Peichin Takahara, who previously studied under the famous karate Master, Kusanku (Kwang Shang Fu), for whom some of the most widely known katas are named; specifically, Kusanku Sho and Kusanku Dai, as an example. Master Kusanku studied under Fang Qinian, a famous female martial arts practitioner and the creator of White Crane Kung, which she developed after her father, a master of Monkey Fist Boxing, passed away. 

This is the general history that explains our martial arts origin – originating in China through its long journey to America. More personally, our history is the same through the training with Master Funakoshi in Japan. Upon returning home, two Korean traditions were spawned from his teachings, by the founders of the Tang Soo Do – Jidokwan and the Tang Soo Do – Chung Do Kwan styles; both of which greatly contributed to the formation of a Taekwondo (Sport Karate) version of their original styles. 

Our Taekwondo Lineage 

My original teacher, Grandmaster (GM) Roy Kurban, obtained his first-degree Black Belt under GM Allen Steen, who trained under Great Grandmaster (GGM) Jhoon Rhee. GGM Rhee also trained GM Ralph Jasche (a contemporary of GM Steen) who trained GM Steve Powell; GM Powell trained GM Abundio Munoz (1st Dan under GM Jasche) who later trained me. While I was training under GM Kurban, I befriended one of his students and most notable fighters, Lee Stanley. Mr. Stanley started began taking me with him, to private afternoon “sparring” sessions when I was a Purple Belt. This is when and where I was formally “introduced” to GM Munoz; I was also intimately introduced to his sparring gear. This was the beginning of a great, long-term relationship – teacher and friend – from which I have greatly benefited and, for which I am tremendously grateful. 

GM Roy Kurban had a tremendous career in the martial arts. He was a highly ranked, full-contact and point fighter, during the infamous “Texas Blood & Guts” era; fighting people like Jim Harrison, Steve Fisher, Ray McCallum, Fred Wren, Skipper Mullins, and many other famous fighters of that period. GM Munoz was also a prolific fighter in his own right; an extremely successful point-fighter, as well as earning a great reputation competing in full-contact kickboxing, MMA, and traditional boxing. He is a man of tremendous skill, but – more importantly – great integrity, which is the ultimate and true purpose of martial arts. 

Jidokwan Lineage 

Sang Sup Chun → Byung In Yoon → Chun Woo Lee → Hyon Chong Park → Won Chik Park → Roy D. Kurban → Shaun D. House 

Chung Do Kwan Lineage 

Won Kuk Lee → Nam Tae Hi → Jhoon Goo Rhee → Ralph Jasche → Steven Powell → Abundio Munoz → Shaun D. House 

Shared Lineage 

Jhoon Goo Rhee  → Allen Steen → Roy D. Kurban → Shaun D. House    

Jhoon Goo Rhee   → Ralph Jasche → Steven Powell → Abundio Munoz →Shaun House 

Additional Training 

My martial arts lineage includes the many years that I spent training under the direct, personal tutelage of GM Steve Fisher (RIP), who introduced me to Shorin-Ryu karate, one of the original Okinawan martial arts styles that preceded the aforementioned Gichin Funakoshi, but still has a shared history. I also had the pleasure of living and training with GM Mike Stone, in the Philippines. Mister Stone, originally from Hawaii, is one the most prolific fighters in sport karate history; not to mention his success in international tournament promotions, writing movies (the original Black Ninja movies), teaching, authoring numerous books, and teaching seminars throughout the world. 

OTHER LESSON

My recent research has revealed a number of interesting ideas and concepts, of which I was previously unaware. Most of it has to do with the associations and relationships shared by most martial arts traditions; a few concepts that are truly enlightening. 

Personal Development 

The primary lesson that is more clarifying than any other point is that the fundamental purpose of Karate-do is personal development, and it always has been – despite being ignored by so many. “Budo” – the virtuous Way – is the most important element of martial arts. In fact, it has been said that when there is no inclusion of budo, the efforts cease to be martial arts and, instead, become “sport”, instead. This is not a negative judgment, as sports are generally good for most participants. However, this clarification allows for better understanding and, thus, easier acceptance of many activities associated with Sport Karate, such as, “inappropriate” behavior of participants (competitions), and excessive rank promotions – based upon participation and success in competition, or time of activity, as opposed to knowledge and technical ability. 

I have spent a lot of time confused about this distinction, but now I understand why many of today’s schools refer to their instructors as coaches, and award participation medals similar to soccer and basketball; they are involved in sport. This also explains why so many young students are promoted to Black Belt without having any real understanding of what a traditional Black Belt is. This also explains the lack of emphasis in the virtues associated with many of today’s “martial arts” beyond what is expressed in most sport activities – concepts like never quit, focus, and the importance of good sportsmanship. Concepts such as the Tenets of Taekwondo – Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, Indomitable Spirit – while similar to many common sports ideologies, actually have much greater meanings than are immediately apparent. In fact, I have visited numerous schools where the students are required to recite these tenets in unison (at the beginning or ending of class); students memorize the words, but very few of them know the true meaning of their underlying concepts, nor are students aware of how to apply these tenets to their daily lives, which – traditionally – is the overall purpose of martial arts training; it’s a lifestyle. 

Again, martial arts developed during warring periods and times of much strife. The threat of physical harm was palpable, but so was the need to maintain proper character and behavior, in addition to dealing extremely stressful issues – poverty, scarcity of resources, and personal relationships. The ability to have sound judgment often depends upon one’s ability to maintain composure when limits are being pushed – integrity and self-control, as an example. 

Empty Hand Explained 

Empty hand = Mushin (No Mind). Most martial arts practitioners are familiar with the general understanding of the meaning of the term “karate” – “the Way of the Empty Hand.” Most believe this solely applies to battle without the use of weapons (i.e. sword, knife, or bo-staff). While this may be true, there is also another much broader philosophical understanding, which goes back to the Four Noble Truths mentioned above. 

The first truth says that “to live is to suffer,” which is immediately followed by the second truth, which states that” suffering is caused by attachment.” Without going into great detail, the concept of “attachment” relates to an emotional commitment or connection that is associated with a particular thing or outcome. This could be a car that one desires, or even, possibly, a relationship. These types of desires are the “attachment” that is being considered. 

The same way desire can influence one’s efforts to obtain a new car or develop a relationship with someone – personal or professional – a desire can also influence the way one approaches a battle, generally, or how one executes a particular technique. Too much “attachment” or desire can cause someone to try too hard to execute a technique, which potentially results in telegraphing (signaling) your intentions to their opponent – the oncoming technique, thereby undermining the successful execution of the technique. 

Having said this, “empty hand” does not necessarily mean “without weapons”, which is a common understanding. Rather, it also has a broader interpretation, meaning “without baggage” – “baggage” being all of the other concerns and potential influences or distractions that you may unintentionally bring into battle with you. This is where the concept of “emptiness” comes into play; specifically, within the martial arts. “Emptiness” means “without attachments – devoid of any and all distractions.” 

Many have seen the movie “The Last Samurai” and the famous scene where the young Samurai warrior instructs Captain Nathan Algren (Tom Cruise’s character) regarding his struggles with his sword practice. He tells Captain Algren that he has “too many minds,” which is to say too much baggage, as described above. This is an expression the concept of “mushin,” which means “no mind.” While in the throes of battle, one must rely solely upon their instinctual evaluation, which intuitively relies upon knowledge acquired from previous training and practice. As I often say, “Sometimes we just need to get out of our own way.” 

No Styles – All is One 

The fundamental, traditional philosophy of Gichin Funakoshi flows through “Ye Si Ye Jong” philosophy. This, ultimately, defeats the “best style” arguments, because all is one. Jigoro Kano mentored Funakoshi; both Masters eventually arrived at the same conclusions about the importance of budo and its application to daily life. 

Taekwondo is a very popular activity for young children, which serves as a starter-sport. The fact that Taekwondo became an official Olympic sport in 2000 is evidence of its increased popularity. While many parents are interested in enrolling their children in this type of training, others are extremely skeptical. Parents are hesitant to enroll their children because of a commonly-held belief that the martial arts are a form of an Eastern (non-Christian) religious activity – some even believe it to be a cult. 

I am the proprietor and instructor of a martial arts school and can confidently say that one of the primary hindrances in acquiring new students – especially being located in the pseudo-South’s Bible Belt – is the concern expressed by many parents that participating in the martial arts is akin to participating in religion, most commonly thought to be an Eastern (non-Christian) religion, such as Buddhism. It should be understood that Buddhism is not a religion; it is a philosophy that embraces all religion, as its core belief embraces an understanding that “all is one.” The parents’ concerns cannot be quickly and summarily dismissed; especially in light of the earlier description of the building and the activities within. 

Living Our Way 

It is important to continually develop a better understanding of the lineage of traditional martial arts, in general, as well as the history of our individual, personal Taekwondo traditions that have culminated in the United States and across the globe throughout the years. To further expand our appreciation for these martial arts, it is important to see how they are applied in the daily lives of practitioners; this is where the virtues associated with traditional martial arts training directly come into play. 

As has been previously discussed, martial arts studies are not solely about developing combative techniques for use against physical aggressors. In fact, it is my contention that the battles many practitioners are most likely to be faced will occur in everyday personal and business transactions; regularly providing opportunities to utilize the Tenets of Taekwondo – Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit. More specific examples include activities such as: 

1) Fitness Training/Martial Arts School Proprietor: This requires proper interaction with customers, client, and parents in a courteous manner, while also ensuring proper discipline and control for all participants; or, 2) Attorney, University Educator, Business Consulting: Each of these activities requires 

extreme personal discipline, as your efforts include keeping important secrets; advising important, life-changing decision-making, and teaching the future doctors, lawyers, engineers, and the business and political leaders of tomorrow. 

Today’s martial artists face many of the same concerns that the legendary Shotokan founder, Gichin Funakoshi, emphasizes in his aforementioned book, Twenty Guiding Principles, which begins with the sentiment that has become the primary mantra of our school, “Respect in the beginning – respect in the end – respect in all that we do.” Ironically, this is the essence of Funakoshi’s first principle, but it applies to each and every personal or professional transaction. Moreover, just as the original Okinawan martial artists used these principles to guide them in dealing with external forces, such as the ongoing threat of war, today’s martial artists now find themselves in a similar position, as they face the threat of a national and global pandemic and civil unrest, due to yet another killing of an unarmed Black man by four police officers, on video, in broad daylight. 

As many endeavor to persevere in these battles, seemingly against all odds, it reminds me of our school’s other mantra that, coincidentally and by happenstance, is also inspired by Master Funakoshi’s teachings, “Our success is not determined by wins and losses, but by the perfection of technique, development of character, and our commitment to Never Quit!” Interestingly, my recent research has revealed many overlapping ideas and concepts that have been infused – over a long period of time – into my own personal martial arts practice and teachings; even with a limited, direct knowledge of its history. Indeed, this further proves that All is One; knowledge and Truth exist and are available for All to discover, if they are willing to make the necessary effort. 

Martial art is my Way; it is my Do (path) – affecting each and every thing that I consider and, ultimately, do. It is my essence. When I teach my university students on campus, in the classrooms, I am doing (being) my martial arts. When I meet with my legal clients and provide business consulting services, as an attorney, I am doing (being) my martial arts. When I stand before the judge arguing on behalf of my clients, as an advocate, I am doing (being) my martial arts. Finally, when I engage with my friends, family, and loved ones, I am doing and Being my martial arts. Again, living martial arts is my Way. 

Historical Martial Arts Lineage Chart 

The chart, included below, traces the lineage of various forms of today’s Taekwondo “styles”, from it origins in China, Okinawa, Japan, South Korea, and America. It aims to provide information showing the direct historical lineage that influenced the martial arts we practice today, which began with White Crane Chinese Kung Fu; then to Okinawan Te; further to Okinawan Goju Ryu; even further to Okinawan Shorin-Ryu; moving to Japanese Shotokan Karate; then to Korean Tang Soo Do; and, finally, to American Taekwondo/Karate. 

One thing that is abundantly clear is that each generation of martial arts tradition have directly contributed to the both the Traditional and Sport Karate approaches. I am extremely happy to offer my understanding of the history of teachers and instructors, as well as, demonstrating the overlapping relationship between my current and former instructors.