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Jul 10

Why MuShin and meekness go hand in hand

chiburi Posted by: chiburi in Molding the student Print 
Tagged in: mushin , meekness , fruit
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If you've studied the arts for any length of time, you've probably come across a term known as "mushin."  At first glance, it seems to be a rather escoteric idea.  "No mind" is often the connotation people equate to the term. 

However, "mu shin" is more akin to total awareness of everything around you by expanding your mind and senses.  In a confrontation, you would want to perceive the whole, rather than being myopic and focusing on a sliver of the entire picture.  Mu shin is a term used in the training hall to suggest the ability to perceive, respond, and act instinctively, rather than simply as "no mind," which would most likely lead to the demise of the person if considered simply at face value.
Unlike mushin, "meekness" is generally not a term used in the training hall.  "Meekness" is often considered "weak" or lacking control.  Well, contrary to popular belief, and to debunct that idea, all we have to look at is the Bible.  Christ was considered meek.  Obviously, he was not weak, he was not lacking control.  If anything, he had more control and "mu shin" than anyone who ever walked the Earth, or ever will walk the Earth.  "Meekness" is strength with control.   Christ could have called a legion of angels, but as we know, he did not.  He responded to Satan when tempted by using scripture.  He perceived and was aware of what Satan was attempting to do, and responsed with control over the devil himself (note: mu shin).
Consider this, Christ didn't react to situations.  He "responded" because he had control, he had a complete awareness and free mind to understand the complexities of even those around him.  Think of the woman whom the people brought to him, who they suggested should be stoned (according to the law) because of her fallen relationship with her husband.  If you recall, Christ responded to them by writing in the sand.  He perceived what they were attempting to do, and responded with a total awareness of and control that literally made them walk away with their heads down!
As martial artists, we should certainly consider mu shin as an important facet of our training - to be aware and fully capable of committing to a decision and response.  However, I would caution you, that as you train your body and mind to act as one, also train your mind and spirit to be meek - to respond to situations, rather than to react to situations or people with love, kindness, gentleness, and the remaining Fruit of the Spirit. I am reading a book called "The Way of the Christian Samurai."  There is a "maxim"  from Lord Naoshige's wall that explains the above rather well:
"Matters of great concern should be treated lightly.".... Among one's affairs there should not be more than two or three matters of what one would call great concerns.  If these are deliberated upon during ordinary times, they can be understood (note: responded to accordingly and under control).  Thinking  about things previously and then handling them lightly when the time comes is what this is all about.  To face an event and solve it lightly is difficult if you are not resolved beforehand, and there will always be uncertainty in hitting your mark (note: think Christ's control and meekness).  However, if the foundation is laid previously, you can think of the saying, 'Matters of great concern should be treated lightly,' as your own basis for action."
Considering the term mu shin and Christ's meekness allows us to respond appropriately to life's dilemmas and with wisdom.  Another way to consider this: "Wisdom is the God given ability to see life with rare objectivity, and to deal with life with rare stability."  Be meek, be aware and able to perceive and respond, and you will find wisdom.  Wisdom will then allow you to respond, rather than react.  Oh, if only more martial art students realized this aspect of training before going off the deep end with their ego....

 Link to video:   Pastor Dennis shares on Meekness in a Martial Artist

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written by xavier, July 16, 2010
I really enjoy martial arts, and have read many Chrstian books on how not to follow eastern thought on training. God is the answer, these writings are great.

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