The Philosophical Principles of Taekkyon
Taekkyon, one of the traditional Korean martial arts, is deeply rooted in the philosophy and culture of Korea. Originating from ancient times, it has not only been a physical exercise but also a way of life, embodying a set of moral and philosophical principles aimed at the holistic development of the practitioner. This blog explores these underlying philosophical principles that have guided the practice of Taekkyon throughout history and continue to do so today.
The Historical Context of Taekkyon
Taekkyon is one of the earliest forms of Korean martial arts, with its origins dating back to the ancient Kingdom of Goguryeo. The practice was formalized and incorporated into the training regimen of the Hwarang warriors of the Silla Dynasty. These young noblemen were not only trained in combat but also educated in ethics, Buddhist morality, and Confucian philosophy. The Hwarang adopted the teachings of the Buddhist scholar Wonkang, centered around the Five Codes of Human Conduct: loyalty to the country, obedience to parents, trustworthiness to friends, courage in battle, and no unjust killings.
Buddhist Influences
Buddhism played a significant role in shaping the philosophical foundation of Taekkyon. Introduced to Korea from China in 347 A.D., Buddhism emphasized the mastery of self, a core principle in Taekkyon training. The Buddhist philosophy advocates for the harmony between oneself and the universe, achieved through the duality of nature. This concept of duality, where opposing forces coexist and balance each other, is fundamental in Taekkyon.
Confucian and Taoist Contributions
Confucianism and Taoism also significantly influenced Taekkyon's philosophical underpinnings. Confucianism emphasized moral virtues and proper conduct, which were incorporated into the martial art’s ethical teachings. These virtues included respect, humility, perseverance, self-control, and honesty. Taoism, on the other hand, introduced the idea of aligning oneself with the natural flow of the universe. The Taiji (Taegeuk in Korean) and Yin-Yang principles are embedded in Taekkyon practice, symbolizing the balance and harmony essential for both physical techniques and spiritual well-being.
The Five Tenets of Taekkyon
Modern Taekkyon practitioners are guided by the Five Tenets, which are Courtesy (Ye Ui), Integrity (Yom Chi), Perseverance (In Nae), Self-Control (Guk Gi), and Indomitable Spirit (Baekjul Boolgool). These tenets are recited by students before training sessions and are displayed prominently in training halls (dojang). They serve as moral guidelines, encouraging practitioners to cultivate these virtues both in their martial arts practice and daily lives.
The Circle of Composition
The Circle of Composition in Taekkyon consists of five elements: Fundamentals (basics and conditioning), Patterns (sequences of techniques), Dallyon (strengthening the body), Sparring (combat training), and Self-Defense. This structure ensures that every aspect of the practice has a purpose, rule, and meaning, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of Taekkyon training. Each action is performed with intention and is aimed at improving not just physical abilities but also mental and spiritual strength.
The Role of Patterns (Poomsae and Tul)
Patterns, known as Poomsae in WT Taekkyon and Tul in ITF Taekkyon, are a series of movements against imaginary opponents. These patterns are built on a philosophical basis and reflect various Asian religious thoughts, including Taoism, Confucianism, and Korean indigenous beliefs. Practicing these patterns helps in internalizing the philosophical principles, enabling practitioners to embody virtues like balance, harmony, and self-awareness.
The Philosophical Goal of Taekkyon
The ultimate philosophical goal of Taekkyon is to achieve harmony with the universe. This is done by balancing opposing forces within oneself and adapting to the dynamic nature of the environment. The practice encourages a state of 'Present Time,' where the practitioner is fully attuned to themselves and their surroundings, enabling seamless and effective action. This state of being is not limited to physical combat but extends to social interactions and personal development, fostering a serene and balanced personality.
Conclusion
Taekkyon is much more than a martial art; it is a way of life that integrates physical prowess with philosophical depth. The practice is grounded in principles derived from Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism, emphasizing the development of moral virtues and harmony with the universe. As practitioners train in Taekkyon, they are not only mastering combat techniques but also cultivating a balanced, respectful, and harmonious way of living.