Ethical code for AKBAN practitioners
Insight A practitioner maintains and develops a harmonious personal insight that binds thoughts, movements, and emotions. Our practice frames this insight.
Friendship Above all technical achievements and as a concrete basis for spiritual development, a practitioner maintains and develops friendship with their fellow trainees. This, both foundation and result, is fundamental and expresses humanity, trust, and compassion.
Power (AKBAN's razor)
A wise practitioner is cautious and does not use power beyond what is needed. If there is a need to use power, it shall be done with wisdom, patience, and compassion.
Special attention should be used when in an advantageous position. Advantage positions stem from force multipliers, physical strength, martial knowledge, the cohesion of fellow practitioners, and also from other factors such as money and social class.
Using power beyond what is necessary corrupts and distances the practitioner from what is dear. In Latin:
"Vis non est ponenda sine necessitate"
A practitioner is obligated to uphold the duty that comes with the power of martial knowledge. These responsibilities include:
- • Maintaining self well-being.
- • Ensuring the physical safety of training partners.
- • Fulfilling duties as a member of society.
- • Preserving and passing on humane and martial knowledge.
Exploring the Depths of Our Ethical Code
The Ethical Code reflects the values and principles that define AKBAN martial arts. While the code itself is concise, applying it necessitates years inside a community.
In 2002, during an instructor's course, I explained my perspective of our ethical code, providing further explanations. This lecture explored our code, its roots in ancient Ninpo, and the practical applications of these principles in our daily lives.