Analysis
of the Ten Articles of Faith on Mental Training
by Ken Brent
In today’s
fast-paced world, where the pursuit of success often takes center stage, it
becomes increasingly more important to find a sense of purpose, balance, and
meaning in our lives. This is where the martial art of Soo Bahk Do®,
with its rich history and profound philosophy, offers a unique perspective.
The Ten Articles of Faith on Mental Training, derived from
the ancient spirit of the Hwa Rang warriors, serve as pillars of wisdom,
offering a profound philosophical framework for practitioners of Soo Bahk Do®.
While they may seem like simple directives on the surface, each article holds a
deeper meaning.
As practitioners of Soo Bahk Do® we should
embrace these articles of faith, they not only deepen their understanding of
our art but also cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness, integrity, and
purpose. These principles resonate beyond the do jang, influencing how we the
practitioners interact with others, make decisions, and navigate the
complexities of the modern world.
At its core, Soo Bahk Do® is not merely about
physical combat or self-defense techniques; it is a way of life, a path of
personal growth and self-discovery. The Ten Articles of Faith serve as guiding
lights, illuminating the virtues and qualities that practitioners should
cultivate not only within the realm of martial arts but also in their everyday
lives.
Loyalty
The first article calls for loyalty
to one's country, reflecting the importance of being deeply rooted in one's
heritage, culture, and community. It reminds practitioners of their responsibility
to contribute positively to society and to strive for the betterment of their
nation.
The second article emphasizes the
significance of harmonious relationships, emphasizing obedience to parents and
fostering love and respect between spouses. These principles highlight the
importance of family values, empathy, and the nurturing of strong and
supportive bonds with loved ones.
The third article echoes the theme
of the second, emphasizing the significance of harmonious relationships between
brothers. The word "brother" is a powerful word that can evoke a
sense of love, respect, and loyalty. It is a word that is often used to
describe the bonds between family members, friends, and comrades.
The fourth and seventh articles delve into the
realm of cooperation and faithfulness, urging practitioners to foster unity and
loyalty within their circles of friends and colleagues. These principles
promote the power of collaboration, trust, and steadfastness, building a sense
of camaraderie and mutual support in both personal and professional endeavors.
The fifth article reinforces the value of
respecting elders, honoring wisdom, and valuing the guidance and experiences of
those who came before us. It serves as a reminder that wisdom transcends age
and should be cherished and acknowledged in all aspects of life.
The sixth article emphasizes the sacred
teacher-student relationship, underscoring the importance of faithfulness and
loyalty in the pursuit of knowledge and personal growth. It highlights the role
of mentors and the responsibility of students to honor and uphold the teachings
passed down to them.
Justice with Honor
The eighth article holds the concept of
justice in high regard, urging practitioners to face it with honor. It
encourages individuals to uphold fairness, integrity, and righteousness in
their actions, both in their personal lives and in the larger societal context.
Retreat to Hell or Advance to Heaven
The ninth and tenth articles exemplify the
principles of perseverance, courage, and determination. They remind the
practitioner never to retreat in the face of challenges and to follow through
with their commitments, demonstrating the value of resilience, grit, and
steadfastness.
The
Ten Articles of Faith on Training
1. Be loyal
to your country.
Sacrifice
yourself for your duty to your country and your people, based on the spirit of
the Hwa Rang.
The Hwa
Rang also known as the Flowering Knights, were an elite warrior group of male
youth from high social ranking families in Silla, an ancient kingdom of the
Korean Peninsula that lasted until the 10th century. There were educational
institutions as well as social clubs where members gathered for all aspects of
study, originally for arts and culture as well as religious teachings stemming
mainly from Korean Buddhism. Chinese sources referred only to the physical
beauty of the "Flower Youths".
The
origin of the Hwa Rang can be traced back to the 6th century (540-576 A.D.),
founded by King Jinheung of Silla. The goal of the Hwa Rang was to create a
group of young men who would be loyal to the king and to the kingdom, and who
would be trained in the arts of war and peace. The Hwa Rang were trained to become
warriors and serve their kingdom with honor and integrity. The Hwa Rang were
also expected to be educated in the Confucian classics and in the Buddhist
scriptures.
The Hwa
Rang played an important role in the unification of the Korean Peninsula. They
were instrumental in the defeat of the neighboring kingdoms of Baekje and
Goguryeo, and they helped to establish the Silla dynasty as the dominant power
on the peninsula.
The Hwa
Rang were also known for their contributions to Korean culture. They were patrons
of the arts, and they helped to spread Buddhism and Confucianism throughout the
kingdom. They also helped to develop the Korean language and literature.
Historians
believe that the Hwa Rang played a great role in the unification of the Three
Kingdoms of Korea, Silla, Baekje and Goguryeo in the Korean Peninsula. One
specific monk, Won Gwang, is known for the creation of The Hwa Rang Code: texts
containing the rules of ethical behavior. These writings are called The Code of
Honor, or The Five Commandments of Secular Life(세속오계),
which are:
1.
Loyalty to the country.
2. Devotion to one’s parents.
3. Trust among friends.
4. Never retreat in battle.
5. Kill only with forethought.(*)
These Five
Commandments of Secular Life were the basis for the 10 Articles of Faith on
Mental Training.
The Hwa
Rang were disbanded in the 10th century, but their legacy continues to inspire
Koreans today. They are seen as a symbol of Korean patriotism, courage, and
cultural achievement.
(*) Kill
only with forethought explained:
The
statement "Kill only with forethought" is a philosophical statement
that emphasizes the importance of careful consideration before taking a life.
It is a reminder that killing is a serious matter, and that it should not be
done without good reason.
There
are many reasons why someone might kill. Some people kill in self-defense, to
protect themselves or their loved ones from harm. Others kill out of anger,
revenge, money, power, or control.
Regardless
of the reason, killing is always a tragedy. It is a loss of life, and it can
have a profound impact on the victim's family and friends. It can also lead to
feelings of guilt, remorse, and shame for the person who did the killing.
The
statement "Kill only with forethought" is a reminder that we should
always think carefully before taking a life. Short of defense of life, as last
or final option, killing should never be a consideration; we should find
another way to resolve the situation.
There
are many ways to resolve conflict without resorting to violence. We can talk to
the person we are angry with, we can try to understand their point of view, and
we can find a compromise that works for both of us. We can also call the police
or a mediator to help us resolve the situation.
There is
always another way to resolve conflict without resorting to violence. We should
always try to find a peaceful solution, and we should only resort to such a
drastic measure when there is no other choice, such as in the defense
of life.
Loyalty
to one's country is a complex concept that can mean different things to
different people. In general, it refers to a sense of attachment and commitment
to one's country, its people, and its institutions. This can be expressed in a
variety of ways, such as:
• Taking pride in one's country. This can include things like
celebrating national holidays, learning about the country's history and
culture, and supporting its sports teams.
• Supporting the government and laws of one's country. This
means obeying the law, paying taxes, and participating in the political
process.
• Defending one's country from harm. This can mean serving in
the military, volunteering for disaster relief, or simply speaking out against
injustice.
Loyalty
to one's country is not always easy. There may be times when the government or
its laws are unjust, or when the country is at war. In these cases, it is
important to remember that loyalty to one's country does not mean blind
obedience. It is possible to be loyal to one's country while also criticizing
its government or its actions.
Ultimately,
loyalty to one's country is a matter of personal choice. There is no right or
wrong answer, and what matters most is that everyone finds a way to express
their loyalty that is meaningful to them.
2.
Be obedient to your parents:
Children
should be dutiful to their parents and parents should be charitable to their
children.
By
showing their parents love and respect, children can build strong and lasting
relationships with their parents. These relationships will provide them with a
foundation of love and support that will last a lifetime.
Parents,
on the other hand, should be charitable to their children. This means providing
them with the love, support, and resources they need to grow and thrive. It
also means being patient, understanding, and forgiving.
3. Be
loving between husband and wife.
Love and affection between the sexes develops mankind's
happiness and harmony in life.
Love and
affection between husband and wife are the foundation of a strong and happy
marriage. It is what makes a marriage last and what helps couples to weather
the storms of life.
When
couples show love and affection to each other, it creates a strong bond that
can withstand any challenge. It also makes the marriage more enjoyable and
fulfilling for both partners.
In
addition to the benefits for the couple, love and affection between husband and
wife also has a positive impact on society. Children who grow up in loving
homes are more likely to be happy, healthy, and successful. They are also more
likely to form healthy relationships of their own.
Love and
affection between husband and wife is a powerful force for good in the world.
It can make marriages stronger, families happier, and communities more
harmonious.
4. Be cooperative between brothers
Hold
together with cooperation and concord.
The word "brother" is a powerful word that can
evoke a sense of love, respect, and loyalty. It is a word that is often used to
describe the bonds between family members, friends, and comrades.
Cooperation
is the act of working together to achieve a common goal. When brothers
cooperate and are in concord, they can achieve more than they could on their
own.
Cooperation
is the act of working together to achieve a common goal. It is a key component
of any successful team or organization. When people cooperate, they can
accomplish more than they could ever do on their own.
There
are many benefits to cooperation. First, it allows people to share their skills
and talents. When people cooperate, they can pool their resources and expertise
to achieve a common goal. This can lead to better results than if each person
were working on their own.
Second,
cooperation can help to build relationships. When people work together, they
get to know each other better. This can lead to stronger relationships, which
can be beneficial in both personal and professional life.
Third,
cooperation can help to create a more harmonious environment. When people
cooperate, they are less likely to argue or disagree. This can lead to a more
peaceful and productive environment.
Cooperation
is an important part of the 10 articles of faith. It is a way to show love and
respect for others, and it can help to build strong and lasting relationships.
5. Be respectful to your elders.
Protect
the rights of the weak with courtesy and modesty.
Respecting
your elders is an important part of being a good person. It shows that you
value their experience and wisdom, and that you appreciate the sacrifices they
have made for you.
The
elderly or the weak do not need to know that they were helped as they may be
embarrassed by the fact, they need help.
There
are many ways to show respect to your elders. Some of these ways include:
• Use
respectful language. This means avoiding slang, profanity, and other
disrespectful language.
• Listen
attentively. When your elders are speaking, give them your full attention.
Don't interrupt, and don't look at your phone or do other things that show that
you're not interested.
• Be
polite. This means saying "please" and "thank you," and
opening doors for your elders.
• Help
around the house. This is a great way to show your elders that you appreciate
their hard work.
• Ask
for their advice. Your elders have a lot of experience and wisdom, so don't be
afraid to ask them for their advice. They may be able to help you with problems
you're facing, or they may just be able to offer you some words of
encouragement.
• Be forgiving.
Everyone makes mistakes, so be willing to forgive your elders when they make
mistakes.
• Be
grateful. Let your elders know how much you appreciate them. Tell them how much
they mean to you and thank them for all they've done for you.
When you
show respect to your elders, you're not only making them feel good, but you’re
also setting a good example for others. By showing respect to your elders,
you're teaching others that it's important to treat everyone with respect,
regardless of their age.
6. Be faithful between teacher and student.
Learn
the truth through practice of duty and affection.
The
relationship between a teacher and student is one of the most important
relationships in life. A good teacher can have a profound impact on a student's
life, and a good student can make a teacher's job more rewarding.
There
are many things that make for a good teacher-student relationship. First, it is
important for the teacher to be faithful to the student. This means being
honest, trustworthy, and supportive. The teacher should always put the
student's needs first and should be willing to go the extra mile to help the
student succeed.
Second,
it is important for the student to be faithful to the teacher. This means being
respectful, hardworking, and appreciative. The student should be willing to
listen to the teacher, follow their instructions, and put in the effort to
learn.
Third,
it is important for both the teacher and student to practice duty and
affection. This means doing what is right, even when it is difficult, and
showing love and respect for each other. When both the teacher and student are
faithful to each other and practice duty and affection, they can create a
relationship that is both rewarding and beneficial.
There
are many benefits to having a good teacher-student relationship. For the
student, a good teacher can provide guidance, support, and knowledge. A good
teacher can also help the student develop their critical thinking skills,
problem solving.
skills,
and communication skills. For the teacher, a good student can be a source of
motivation, inspiration, and satisfaction. A good student can also help the
teacher grow as an educator.
7. Be faithful between friends.
Be
peaceful and happy with harmony and faith towards each other, regardless of
race, and towards all mankind.
Friends
are people who we can trust and rely on. They are there for us when we need
them, and they make us happy. Friends can come from all walks of life, and they
can be of any race or ethnicity.
It is important
to be faithful between friends. This means being honest, trustworthy, and
supportive. It also means being there for your friends, even when it is
difficult.
It is
also important to be peaceful and happy with harmony and faith towards each
other, regardless of race, and towards all mankind. This means respecting
everyone, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or religion. It also means being
understanding and tolerant of others' differences.
When we
are faithful between friends, peaceful and happy with harmony, and faithful
towards each other regardless of race, we create a more positive and supportive
world for ourselves and others.
8. Face combat only in justice and with honor.
Be able
to distinguish between good and bad with fairness and rightfulness.
Facing
combat only in justice and with honor is a noble ideal. It means that we should
only fight when it is right to do so, and that we should fight with dignity and
respect for our opponent.
There
are many reasons why we might fight. We might fight to defend ourselves or our
loved ones from harm. We might fight to protect our freedom or our way of life.
We might fight to uphold justice or to right a wrong.
Not all
fights are justified. Sometimes, people fight for selfish reasons, or they fight
in a way that is cruel or dishonorable. When we fight, we should always
remember that we are responsible for our actions. We should fight with
integrity and compassion, and we should always strive to do what is right.
Being
able to distinguish between good (right) and bad/evil (wrong) while being fair
and just is another important skill. It means that we can make judgments about
right and wrong, and that we can act in a way that is fair and just.
This is
not always an easy task. There are many situations in life where it is not
clear what is right or wrong. There are also many people who do not always act
in a fair or just way.
It is
important to remember that we have the power to make a difference. We can
choose to act in a way that is good and just, even when it is difficult. We can
also choose to stand up for what is right, even when it is unpopular.
When we
make these choices, we are making the world a better place. We are also making
ourselves better people. Always do the right thing, despite what others around
you may do.
9. Never retreating in battle.
Sacrificing for justice with capability and bravery
A noble
ideal, meaning that we should always fight for what we believe in, even when it
is difficult. The ninth article of faith may have originally meant that we
should be willing to put our lives on the line to protect justice and what is
right.
Looking
at the ninth article philosophically, it could be taken to mean:
• Never give up on your dreams. No matter how difficult
things may seem, never give up on your dreams. Keep fighting for what you
believe in, and never give up on yourself.
• Stand up for what you believe in. It is important to stand
up for what you believe in, even if it means facing opposition.
• Don't be afraid to speak your truth, and don't be afraid to
fight for what you believe in.
• Never be afraid to fail. Failure is a part of life. Don't
let it discourage you. Learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward.
•
Never give up on yourself. You are capable of great things.
Never give up on your potential.
It is
important to note that this article of faith today should not be taken
literally. It should not just be construed as you should never run away from
danger or conflict. What it is saying is that you should never give up on your
dreams or your goals, no matter how difficult things may seem. You should
always keep fighting for what you believe in, even when things get tough.
Article 9 dovetails with Article 10 very nicely.
10. Always finish what you start.
Move to action with sureness and hope.
"Finish
what you start" is a phrase that encapsulates the importance of completing
tasks or endeavors that you initiate. It reflects a mindset of commitment,
discipline, and perseverance. Whether applied to personal goals, professional
projects, or even everyday tasks, this principle emphasizes the value of seeing
things through to completion.
At its
core, "finish what you start" implies a sense of responsibility and
accountability. It means taking ownership of your actions and commitments,
recognizing that starting something creates an obligation to finish it. By
following through on your endeavors, you demonstrate reliability and integrity,
which can positively impact your reputation and relationships.
One of
the primary benefits of adhering to this principle is the development of
discipline. In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to become distracted or lose
focus on our goals. However, when we cultivate the habit of finishing what we
start, we train ourselves to stay committed and dedicated to our objectives.
This discipline helps us overcome obstacles, stay motivated, and achieve
long-term success.
Moreover,
finishing what you start promotes personal growth and self-confidence. When you
complete a task or reach a goal, it instills a sense of accomplishment and
satisfaction. Each completed endeavor serves as a building block for your
character, demonstrating your ability to follow through on your intentions.
This positive reinforcement boosts your confidence, encourages you to tackle
more significant challenges, and propels you towards continued growth.
The
principle of finishing what you start also supports efficiency and
productivity. Unfinished tasks or projects can create a mental burden,
occupying space in your mind and diverting your attention from other important
matters. By completing tasks in a timely manner, you can avoid accumulating a
backlog and maintain a clear focus on your priorities. This proactive approach
fosters productivity, as you can move on to new endeavors without the weight of
unfinished business holding you back.
In a
broader context, "finish what you start" extends beyond individual
tasks or goals. It can apply to larger endeavors such as academic pursuits,
career ambitions, or even relationships. Committing to seeing these endeavors
through to completion requires dedication, patience, and resilience. It may
involve overcoming setbacks, adapting to new circumstances, or persisting in
the face of challenges. However, by persistently working towards the finish
line, you increase your chances of success and create opportunities for growth
along the way.
In conclusion, "Finish what you start" is a
valuable principle that emphasizes the importance of completing tasks, goals,
and commitments. By embodying this mindset, you develop discipline, cultivate
personal growth, enhance productivity, and increase your chances of success.
Remembering this principle can serve as a guiding principle to stay focused,
motivated, and accountable, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and
accomplished life.
Conclusion:
The Ten Articles of Faith on Training in Soo Bahk Do®
are not merely a set of rules or guidelines to follow during practice but a
profound philosophy that holds deep meaning and relevance in our lives. These
articles offer a holistic approach to personal growth, character development,
and ethical living.
Through the exploration of loyalty, obedience, love,
cooperation, respect, faithfulness, justice, perseverance, and commitment,
practitioners of Soo Bahk Do® gain insights into their own journey
of self-discovery and self-mastery. These principles extend beyond the training
floor and permeate into everyday life, guiding practitioners in their
interactions with others, their decision-making processes, and their pursuit of
personal excellence.
In the context of the present day, where we are confronted
with various challenges and rapid changes, the Ten Articles of Faith on
Training serve as a moral compass that grounds us amidst uncertainty. They
remind us of the importance of embracing our cultural heritage, nurturing
harmonious relationships, upholding values such as integrity and fairness, and
persevering through adversity.
The philosophical depth of these articles provides
practitioners with a roadmap for navigating the complexities of the modern
world. They encourage us to cultivate a sense of purpose, balance, and moral
responsibility in our lives, leading to personal growth and the positive
transformation of ourselves and our communities.
By embodying the principles encapsulated within the Ten
Articles of Faith on Training, practitioners of Soo Bahk Do® become
not only skilled martial artists but also individuals of character, integrity,
and compassion. These articles inspire us to strive for excellence in all
aspects of life, to seek harmony, and to contribute positively to our society.
In conclusion, the Ten Articles of Faith on Training in Soo
Bahk Do® offer a profound philosophical framework that goes beyond
physical techniques, inviting practitioners to embark on a journey of
self-discovery, personal growth, and ethical living. As we embrace these
principles, we can navigate the complexities of the modern world with honor,
resilience, and a deep understanding of our role in shaping a better future for
ourselves and those around us.
I have put considerable effort into the creation of this post. If you find it useful and believe that another practitioner may benefit from the my work, please feel free to repost.
https://caveat-veritas.blogspot.com/2023/05/yesterdays-technology-tomorrow-decline.html
Sources:
1. Moo Duk Kwan Volume 1
2. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hwarang
3. https://nor.mofa.go.kr
4. U.S. Soo Bahk Do® Moo Duk
Qwan Federation Member Manual 2009
5. U.S. Soo Bahk Do®/Member
Manual 2019
# Articles of Faith #Elders #hcwhang #Harmony #Honor #Hwa Rang #Hwarang #Justice #knights #Loyalty #moodukkwan #Respect #SooBahkDo #, #Templar #WhangKee
