 |
|
 |
||
|
|
||||
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
||||
What is a Hakama?
A Hakama is the skirt like trousers that some Aikidoka wear. It is a traditional piece of Samurai clothing. The Gi worn in Aikido was originally underclothes.
The Hakama were originally meant to protect a horseman's legs from brush, etc, similar
to (cowboy's
leather chaps).
As
leather was hard to come by in Japan, heavy cloth was used instead. The
Samurai persisted in wearing the Hakama because it set them apart and made
them easily identifiable. When the Samurai fought on foot, it gave the
wearer an advantage in battle, the ability to hide his leg and feet movements,
this made him able to hide his intentions from his enemy.
The Hakama and its folds?
Did you know? The Hakama has 7 folds (5 at the front and 2 at the back) , and like most Japanese garments, every thing has a meaning, as does the seven folds of a Hakama.
The seven folds relate to the seven principles of Bushido.
|
(Gi) Justice |
The correct decision taken with equanimity, the right attitude, the truth, rectitude. |
|
(Yuu) Bravery |
Bravery Heroism. |
|
(Jin) Benevolence |
Compassion, and Benevolence toward mankind. |
|
(Rei) Politeness |
Politeness, taken the Right action, being Courtesy. |
|
(Makoto) Veracity |
Veracity, Utter Sincerity, and Truthfulness. |
|
(Meiyo) Honour |
Honour and Glory. |
|
(Chuugi) Loyalty |
Loyalty and Devotion. |
The virtues listed above, were found in distinguished Samurai of the past, so wearing the Hakama symbolizes traditions that have been passed down by the Samurai warrior. We should all aim to take on these traditions and improve ourselves.
Previous
Page
Next
Page
 |
