KYOKUSHIN EMBLEM MEANINGS
Important emblems you need to know
KANJI
The Kanji 漢字 (Japanese characters) calligraphy, worn universally on the front of the Gi, is a stylized form of the characters for "Kyokushinkai", which is the name given by Sosai Mas Oyama to the karate style he created. It is composed of three characters:
極 Kyoku meaning "Ultimate"
真 Shin meaning "Truth"
会 Kai meaning "Association"
KANKU
The symbol of Kyokushin Karate is the Kanku, which is derived from Kanku Dai kata, the Sky Gazing form. In this kata, the hands are raised and the fingers meet to form an opening through which the sky is viewed. The top and bottom points of the Kanku represent the first fingers of each hand touching at the top and the thumbs touching at the bottom, symbolising the peaks or ultimate points. The thick sections at the sides represent the wrists, symbolising power. The centre circle represents the opening between the hands through which the sky is viewed, symbolising infinite depth. The whole Kanku is enclosed by a circle, symbolising continuity and circular action.
IFK
The International Federation of Karate was established in 1992 by Hanshi Steve Arneil and has branches throughout the world. The International Federation badge has as its central symbol a rising wave. This symbol is taken from Saiha Kata. This wave symbolises the fact that no matter how great a task or problem before you with determination and perseverance you can rise and overcome all obstacles.
BKK
The British Karate Kyokushinkai, established in 1965, and has seen steady progression in size and ability of one of the most respected karate organisations in Britain. One major reason for this progression lies in the personality and drive of chief instructor Hanshi Steve Arneil, 10th Dan. His depths of knowledge and tireless efforts have developed the unity of the British Karate Kyokushinkai Association.
NINTAI
The Nintai 忍耐 (Japanese characters) calligraphy is unique to our dojo and was the name chosen Senpai James. It means:
Patience
Perseverance
Endurance
Nintai Badge
Sempai James loves a badge. He created this one for the dojo influenced by a design from his past. Many of the dojo karatekas wear it on their gi or sewn onto their kit bags.