Jujitsu

 

Ju Jitsu, which translates from the Japanese as the ‘Gentle Art‘, is generally considered to be the oldest form of martial art. It originated in India more than two thousand years before Christ, and was created by monks who normally carried no weapons to defend themselves against barbarian attacks.

It spread through China and eventually took root in Japan, where its elaborated form became the very first martial art style. The Japanese samurai adopted Ju Jitsu as their own during the Kamakura period (1185 - 1333) in order to disable, cripple or kill an armed opponent if the samurai had already been disarmed.

As the centuries passed, various schools developed, such as Wa Jutsu, Yawara and Kenpo, and techniques were combined with Chinese methods of combat. It became a true martial art in the Edo (1600 - 1868) and many more schools were created by the Japanese Masterless warriors, the Ronin.

Ju Jitsu, in its true form, is not a sport. There are no rules, no concept of fair play or ‘gentleman’s understanding’ in the application of the self defence technique. It is direct and often brutal. In the event of an attack, the ability to cripple or kill was, and is, essential. While damage to the opponent can be minimal, the goal is always to do whatever is needed to survive any confrontation.