Goju-Ryu Karate Bunkai
The meaning or rather, application, of
the techniques and movements of Kata is called "bunkai".
Often only seasoned experts know the true meaning of the
techniques in a Kata, which is why it is important to use
every opportunity to learn from the actual masters of a
style, so that you learn the real Bunkai. Different schools
or styles often engage in a passionate controversy about the
true meaning of Kata and Bunkai, and sometimes claim to
having the birthright to the "actual Bunkai". Some
instructors seem to go as far as to intentionally withhold
the Bunkai to certain Katas from their students, perhaps so
as to keep a perceived advantage or position themselves in a
shroud of mystery.
It requires a certain maturity, sound judgment and common
sense not to get carried away too much with these things
that occasionally have more to do with the pride of
particular schools and individuals than with the desire of
teaching their students the true way, that ultimately every
martial artist has to find for themselves.
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