What does all this bowing mean in the dojo? I have been confronted by
this many times. Some Christians had issue because they considered it as
a sign of worshiping an idol others thought of it as a master/slave
relationship. A bow can mean many things but in the Dojo it means only
one, Respect.
There are many different ways to show respect as a greeting. The
handshake dates back to even before it could be written. This gesture
varies from different cultures but for the most part it is to show that I am
unarmed. The knights would extend their hands and grasp each others
forearms searching for hidden weapons. Back in the wild west most
shooters were right handed. Shaking hands (right hand) kept the hand
away from the gun as a sign of peace. Some cultures tip the hat. When a
gentleman lifts or tips his hat it is a greeting to show respect.
The bow is used in Japan. There are many meanings with bowing. The
Saikeirei bow is the highest most respectful standing bow. You would
bend at least 45 degrees from the hip. You would not use this on a
regular basis but only when you are extremely grateful or your
apologizing for something. The Eshaku is a bow we use in the dojo. You
would bend around 15 degrees from the hip. We say Osu as we bow to
show respect. (osu has many meanings. I will cover this in another blog)
Bowing is a form of Dojo Etiquette. Before entering and leaving the dojo
we are to bow in acknowledgement of those who trained before and after
us, and to give thanks to the art and place of training. It is not a religious
formality but a sign of respect. During class we bow to our partner. It is a
way of saying thank you. You could never bow to much.
Bowing is a Japanese custom for showing respect, and humility. It has
nothing to do with bowing down to a superior. Even the highest of Black
Belts bow to the lower Belts. Osu
Simple, Humble and Pure