Empty Hand: A Karate Word Book

by Rui Umezawa

The Empty Hand was written to help Western students understand the precise and complete meaning of the many Japanese terms used by their sensei (master) in the dojo (practice hall) and grasp the full implications and deeper meaning of their martial art. Each of the twenty-eight main entries is an in-depth mini-essay on one karate term, explaining not only its meaning but the Sino-Japanese characters used to write it. The essays also provide rich background information on the history and culture of karate, and the attitude one should cultivate toward martial arts practice. Fully illustrated with calligraphy for each term and with original woodcuts.

Genres: Martial Arts

64 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1998

Reviews

[Darin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book takes 27 terms from karate and explains their meaning. It also explains the meaning of the kanji for the terms with a discussion of how the kanji are formed. For example, the term tsuki often gets translated as thrust or punch, but is formed from the characters for cave and dog with the dog rushing out of the cave.

[Lyle Nicholson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent guide to the essential elements of Karate. I read to get some background on some moves for my protagonist in my latest book. I'd recommend that anyone entering into Karate or thinking of exploring this art, to read this book.