The Japanese characters in the middle of the logo mean Bujitsu, which is defined as “Martial Techniques”. It encompasses all of the arts taught at our Dojo such as Karate-Jitsu, Aiki-Jujitsu, Jiu-Jitsu, Goshin-Jitsu, Kobu-Jitsu, Iai-Jitsu, Ken-Jitsu, Jo-Jitsu.
The 8-pointed symbol, we refer to as the “Compass”, has two definitions.
First, through the practice of Karate-do, a person will find balance within their mind, body, and spirit, and through this balance, they will choose their next direction in life. Essentially, karate-do represent a “Crossroads” in a person’s life to help them find their way.
Next, originally the symbol where two shuriken (throwing stars) stacked one on top of the other. This represented two individuals. Now the two are joined together representing a Brotherhood and Sisterhood.
The color grey represents neutral and having an “Empty Cup”, or open mind, allowing room for understanding while learning and compassion for others.
The color red represents mastery of the art and oneself.
The outer circle is called the “Ensō” which means “circular form”. It is a circle that is hand-drawn in one or two uninhibited brushstrokes to express a moment when the mind is free to let the body create. The Ensō symbolizes absolute enlightenment, strength, elegance, the universe, and mu (the void).
So, through the practice of Bujitsu and the Brotherhood/Sisterhood that you will gain during training you will find balance in your Mind, Body and Spirit by using an open mind and a compassion for others, in order to find your path to Mastery and Enlightenment. This philosophy will then show through every aspect in your life. When you feel you have reached the end, you will realize that it is truly just another beginning!
Tenbukan Bujitsu Renmei Logo
The outer red circle represents the fact that everything returns to its source.
The branches and leaves on the side are from the old style of Motobu paying homage to that lineage.
TenBuKan – Heavenly Warrior Arts
Bujitsu – Warrior martial arts represented by Shito-ryu, Goshin-Jitsu, Aikijutsu, Iaido, Kenjutsu and Kobudo.
The vertical kanji running down the middle represents the balance of TenBuKan.
The inner circle represents the circular motion found in many of the techniques.
The five sided symbol represents the cherry blossom, an important emblem to the Samurai and the five elements from which we draw our techniques
The Colors Red – Courage White – Purity Black – Maturity
The Sun in the middle representing traditional Japan/Asia as well as the source of life.
