Excerpted from Ashihara Karate's - Preparing for Black Belt Manual
Becoming Shodan is somewhat equivalent to graduating from high school. One still has college to endure if one wishes to learn more about the art. Two years of college would perhaps be like "Nidan" or "second level" student. If one completes college, one might be "Sandan". With that level of skill and knowledge one can begin to teach, but there is still graduate school ahead if one means to truly master the art.
At Sandan level, one is recognised as a Sensei. Sensei is a title used and means teacher or "one who has gone before". If one goes on to earn a master's degree, one would be "Yondan". And if one keeps studying until he/she earns a doctorate, he/she would be "Godan". One would then be a master of the art. Thus, Yondan and Godan are the "Renshi" grades, those at which one finally becomes a teacher as well as a student.
At Godan level one is awarded the title of Shihan. The title loosely translated means Master. But there are those for whom even the doctorate is not the end of their studies. They serve internships, go on to post-doctoral studies, do research and make new discoveries about their art. They contribute to their art by their wisdom. These are the "Kyoshi" grades, the Grandmaster grades of Rokudan and higher. Another title, which is awarded, is that of Hanshi. This is granted to recognise outstanding dedication and leadership.
MENKYO KAIDEN
In Bujitsu (martial arts) or Geido (way of accomplishments), the master bestows all of his secrets and the heart of his teaching to only one disciple. The recipient of these doctrines is granted permission to instruct and transfer the style of his art, and he is called Menkyo Kaiden. "Menkyo" means a person who is permitted to perform a specific duty by an authority. "Kaiden" means that the teacher grants the fullness of his knowledge to his successor.
SOKE
The Soke is referred to as iemoto in non-martial arts groups. In Budo, the Soke is the lineal descendent of a kinsman or family, and is also called sohhonke or honke. For contemporary soke in the martial arts, this implies that the sensei must first develop a system of sensible, understandable concepts, both technical and spiritual, in order to pass them on. The important thing is for the soke to take over his predecessor's teachings and thoughts faithfully.
HANSHI
The Hanshi is the highest title in the active budoka, granted by licence to a martial artist from a high authority. The All Japan Kendo Association conferred the title for a practitioner's dedication, leadership, facilitation, and the development of the art, but only after the practitioner had achieved highest ranking of 8th Dan while being an active practitioner. A person who receives the title of Hanshi can also, with proper certification, be called "Shihan."
KYOSHI
A person who trains a group of soldiers is called "Kyoshi" or "Kanshi". In traditional Budo circles, the Butokukai grades this rank for deserving participants above 6th Dan who pass a physical and mental examination.
RENSHI
Renshi refers to a member of a discipline who is recognised for his expertise. The title is conferred to practitioners above 4th Dan who display excellence in both technical and mental capability. The Renshi title is the first step on the road towards Kyoshi and Hanshi.
Summary of Shogo Concepts:
These titles are granted to deserving individuals only after a prolonged and severe examination and evaluation. These ranks are highly dignified and must be earned, rather than lightly granted.
Courtesy of Kaicho Hoosain Narker
Source: Kojien, Iwanami Shoten, Tokyo, Japan.
Copyright Shuriway
All rights reserved.
Use of this website is governed by the Terms of Use.