Kha's School of Karate

Today's Performance

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Overview

This page is for today’s performance
Performers

Zoey
Dylan 
Cristian
Danny
Trevor
Corbin
Paxton
Yaacob
Co Van

Music

Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcvV1dg7LCw

Google Drive download MP3 Format

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Mou0mYLW-b5mKtrzAWDOx6UDpDbJQlAl

Outline / Format

At the start of the music, bow to each side(or maybe just the front)

Basics (no basics today)

Kata

First kata (Chon Ji)
- Zoey, Yaacob
Second kata
- Dylan, Danny, Cristian
Third kata
- Trevor, Paxton
- Sandy, Van
Fourth kata
- Corbin(?)

1-step sparring (at least 3 each)

First group (hand techniques)
- Yaacob, Danny
Second group (kicks)
- Sandy & Vanor (Dylan)
Third group (anything)
- need volunteers

Free Sparring

First group
- Dylan & Cristian
Second group
- Paxton & Danny
Third group
- Trevor & Sandy(Van)

Breaking

Zoey - side kick
Dylan - round house
Cristian(or Trevor) - front kick (or back kick)
Danny(or Trevor) - back kick (or front kick)
Corbin - hand target (or maybe 2 hand targets)
Paxton, Trevor Sandy - Paxton on Trevor's shoulders double motion front kick
Yaacob - for support

Lunar New Year 2026

Sun, 01 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Please join us in celebrating the Lunar New Year this February 21 at the Twin Lakes Golf Course.

In memory of Dao Thi Chinh

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Dao Thi Chinh

January 17, 2026

In memory of Dao Thi Chinh, the mother of our founder, Kha’s Karate will be closed January 17, 2026

Thank you.

Silkisondan Karate Training

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Silkisondan Karate Training (Draft)

I would like to formally address the traditional framework by which a classical karate class is conducted. This structure reflects the core principles of Silkisondan Karate, which place primary emphasis on the cultivation of character, intellectual development, self-control, and disciplined conduct. This system is not designed for sport competition nor for fitness alone, but for the comprehensive development of the individual.

The Silkisondan Karate system is presently overseen by three senior masters: Master Ron Profitt, Master Rusty Burke, and Master Kha Nguyen. Each has received extensive training under my direct guidance. Their character, dedication, and commitment to the art of karate are of the highest standard. I have complete confidence in their leadership and judgment, and I am assured that they will faithfully preserve the integrity of our system while continuing to refine and adapt it responsibly in response to an evolving environment.

Silkisondan Karate Student’s Oath

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Silkisondan Karate Student’s Oath

A Reflection on Purpose, Training, and Living

As we step into 2026, I feel it is the right moment to bring together the full picture of what I have always intended to pass on to every student who has trained with us—both in the past and those who will come in the future. That picture is embodied in the Silkisondan Karate Student’s Oath.

Between 1980 and 1982, I worked closely with one of my early black belts and a dear friend, Mike Thompson. Together, we spent countless hours discussing, questioning, and refining what a student’s oath should truly represent. Our goal was never to create something ceremonial or repetitive, but rather something meaningful—an oath rooted in lived experience, responsibility, and the deeper purpose of martial arts.

Change

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

As the holiday season arrives and we stand at the threshold of a new year, I would like to extend my warmest wishes to each of you and your loved ones. As we prepare to welcome 2026, it is worth acknowledging that 2025 has been a challenging year for many—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. May this holiday season bring you peace, renewal, and moments of genuine connection, and may the coming year offer clarity, health, and steady progress.

Character, Intelligence, Control, and Discipline

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Learning and the Development of Character, Intelligence, Control, and Discipline You may notice that the third line of our student’s oath references Character, Intelligence, Control, and Discipline. The word Character is listed first, leading the other three. This order is intentional and reflects my understanding of what character truly means.

Learning is not merely the accumulation of knowledge or the acquisition of skill. It is a lifelong process of shaping one’s character, sharpening the mind, mastering self-control, and cultivating discipline. These four elements are inseparable and deeply interconnected, yet they are not equal in weight or importance.

Happy Holidays

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Dear Masters, Instructors, Black Belts, and Fellow Students,

The holiday season is upon us, and I would like to take this moment to express my sincere appreciation for your dedication, hard work, and loyalty to the International Silkisondan Karate Association. It is through your commitment—day after day, class after class—that our art continues to grow, strengthen, and inspire. I also extend my warmest wishes to you, your families, and your loved ones for a joyful and meaningful holiday season.

Holiday season 2025

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Dear Masters,

As the holiday season approaches, I often find myself returning to a state of mind shaped by the vision and understanding I have followed throughout my life.

I would like to share with you a part of myself—what in Asia is called “Tâm.” In English, it carries many meanings: heart, mind, inner self, and spirit. When you are alone and have no one to turn to, you return to your Tâm.

Black belt class

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Black belt class

The next black belt class will be Monday November 24, 2025 7:30 - 8:45pm, Annandale, VA. Brown belts are invited and encouraged to participate. For attendance tracking, students that plan on coming to this class are welcome to practice in earlier classes but not required to do so.

Tonight’s class is short notice and is offered because Megan is in town and I’d like to offer a deep dive into some techniques for her and invite others to observe and participate. For those that cannot make this time, I understand and thank you for your consideration, and will see you either during the regular class time, or next time.

The Three Timeless Virtues in Asian Culture

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Three Timeless Virtues in Asian Culture

There are three enduring qualities in Asian culture that shine through all people, regardless of background or generation.

Speak with care and respect

Words carry energy and consequence. What we say can either uplift or wound others, which is why in many Asian traditions, speech is treated as a reflection of character. Teachers, in particular, are held in the highest regard—not only for the knowledge they impart, but for the wisdom and restraint they model in their words.

Black belt test 2025

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Good morning. Announcing that we will hold a Black Belt test on Sat. Nov. 15 at Atlee Rec., 10A. The following students are scheduled to test:

Eddie Echo to Dan
Michael Banks to 1st Dan
Sensei Trey Chouinard to 2nd Dan

Saturday Nov 15, 10:00 AM
Atlee Recreation Center
9411 Staple Ln
Mechanicsville, VA 23116

Looking forward to seeing everyone there.

Master Ron

Schedule

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Class Schedule

Day	Time	Notes
Monday, Wednesday	5:30 - 6:20 PM	Rank belt class
Monday, Wednesday	6:30 - 7:30 PM	Rank belt class
Saturday	1:00 - 2:00 PM	Rank belt class (Until December 6, 2025)
Saturday	9:00 AM - 10:30 AM	Rank belt class (Effective January 10, 2026)

Important Dates

This section will be updated regularly.

Date	Status	Notes
February 16, 2026	Closed	holiday weekend
March 30, 2026 - April 4, 2026	Closed	FCPS spring break
May 23, 2026 - May 27, 2026	Closed	holiday weekend
July 4, 2026	Closed	holiday weekend

Private lessons, Family classes

Day	Time
Fri, Sat, Sun	upon request, subject to availability

Tests

Upcoming rank belt tests

Date	Location
Saturday, March TBD, 2026 10:00AM	Annandale, VA
Saturday, June TBD, 2026 10:00AM	Annandale, VA
Saturday, September TBD, 2026 10:00AM	Annandale, VA
Saturday, December TBD, 2026 10:00AM	Annandale, VA

Upcoming black belt tests

(subject to change)

Q4 test 2025

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Our next test will be Saturday October 25, 2025 10:00 AM at the school in Annandale. Please come and support the testing students.

Fall Festival 2025

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Join us for the 2025 fall festival

7200 Columbia Pike
Annandale, VA 22003 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Performance starts at 2:00PM

Additionally. students are encourage to register for the art contest. Details and prices below…

And a banh mi contest ….

Mid Autumn Festival 2025

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Join us for the mid autumn festival 2025

Kenmore Middle School
202 S Carlin Spring Rd
Arlington VA 22204
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Performance starts at 3:30 PM. Arrive by 2:30PM.

Tran Xuan Quang

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The International Silkisondan Karate Association mourns the loss of Tran Xuan Quang, 20-Sept 1946 - 18-Aug 2025, father to Cinnamon Pham. He will forever be missed.

Rank Promotions Guidelines(Draft)

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

All prerequisites for testing include understanding of and proper execution of:
Kiai
Chun bi stance
Attention stance
Pushups
Situps( hands behind head)
Reverse situps
Front Raising kicks
Back raising kicks
Hops
Basic etiquette for bow
Student oath

White (testing to yellow)

First stripe - Tie belt/student oath
Second stripe - Chon ji first half
Third stripe - Chon ji second half
Fourth stripe - One step (3 techniques)

Attendance: 24 classes

Awareness

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Awareness

At its highest form, awareness is not merely a passive observation but an active and intimate engagement with the present moment. The most we can hope to achieve in cultivating awareness is to be fully present—as events are unfolding, not before or after, but precisely as they are. True awareness is not delayed by thought, nor clouded by anticipation or regret. It is grounded, clear, and rooted in the now.

Megan Nguyen - Black belt test August 2025

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Megan Nguyen: Testing to 2nd Dan

Saturday August 9, 2025 10:00 AM

Kha’s Karate School
6930 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, VA

Everyone is invited to attend. Brown belts are invited to attend in uniform.

Photos from the test. Congrats Megan.

Rank belt test: Goochland, VA July 2025

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Rank belt test in Goochland, Virginia Monday July 14, 2025. No class at the Annandale location.

Goochland Parks & Rec Building
1800 Sandy Hook Rd, Goochland, VA 23063
Instructor: Sensei Kris Larson (Monday)
Instructor: Sensei Mark Wilds (Thursday)
Test starts at 6:30 PM

Rank belt test: Annandale, VA July 2025

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The next rank belt test will be held on July 25, 2025 10:00 AM

Kha’s Karate School
6930 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, VA 22003

Back to School Drive 2025

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

On behalf of the Asian America Community Center…

“Every year our goal is the same: to provide new backpacks and grade-specific supplies to every child referred to the program.”

For every dollar one contributes, we typically purchase $2 to $4 of school supplies for the drive.

Please see the attachments with list of supplies.

Thanks for all your support the community, our children and continue to help! Best Regards, Thuy

In honor of Nguyen Van Thanh

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Nguyen Van Thanh

December 30, 1923 - June 6, 2025

In honor of Nguyen Van Thanh, the father of our founder and grandfather of our instructor, Kha’s Karate will be closed 06/22/2025- 6/28/2025.

Thank you for your understanding.

True Karate Training

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Dear Master Ron, Rusty, and Kha,
I wanted to share this piece I wrote in honor of my father, who peacefully left this world yesterday.

With respect and gratitude,

Master Thinh

True Karate Training: A Path to Inner Clarity

In the heart of true Karate training lies something far deeper than punches, kicks, or forms — it is the art of becoming fully awake.

As practitioners, we often move through life on autopilot. If we take a moment to quietly observe, we may notice how our thoughts, emotions, desires, fears, and attachments rise like shadows and subtly shape our decisions. We follow them unknowingly — a whisper of anger, a flicker of doubt, a craving for approval — and yet we believe we are in control.

The 3 bows

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The 3 bows

The first bow: Stay calm

How to achieve “inner stillness – a calm mind”?
Below are some specific and practical practices to help you nurture inner peace amid the busyness of life:

Learn to slow down

When everything outside is rushing, try to walk slowly, eat slowly, breathe slowly, and think slowly. Slowing down allows you to observe more deeply – both the world and yourself.

Practice: Every morning, spend 5–10 minutes just sitting in stillness, doing nothing. Simply sit and feel your breath.

Zen vs Meditation

Mon, 19 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Master Kha’s birthday and Megan’s high school graduation are both approaching—two meaningful milestones for individuals who have brought joy, dedication, and inspiration to our lives.

To honor them and express my deep appreciation and admiration, I would like to present them with the following gift. This gesture is a small token of gratitude for all they have accomplished and for the positive impact they continue to make.

Zen vs Meditation

What Is Zen?

Zen is a school of Buddhism that emphasizes

A journey - Karate Student Oath - Forever Karate Blue Print

Sun, 18 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A journey - Karate Student Oath - Forever Karate Blue Print

I want to take a moment to share a story with all of you—a story about how this journey of martial arts, discipline, and growth began for me. It’s a story that started on April 27, 1971, when I left Vietnam, heading to the United States with a clear mission in mind: to complete my Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering as part of the Vietnamization program, which aimed to replace U.S. military officers in South Vietnam.

Karate & Taeknowndo vs. Chinese martial arts

Thu, 15 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Karate & Taeknowndo vs. Chinese martial arts

Karate

Most modern Karate practitioners—especially casual or newer students—may not be aware that Karate was once referred to as “Kara Jūsudō” or understand its historical roots in Chinese martial arts. This is not necessarily a matter of “forgetting” but more often due to how Karate is typically taught today, with a focus on techniques, kata, and discipline rather than its deeper historical and philosophical evolution.

Silkisondan in Vietnamese

Thu, 15 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Siêu Khí Song Đan (Silkisondan)

Siêu means “super.” Khí is “energy” or “force”. Song is “dual”. Đan means “way”.

In life, we should recognize the mutual gratitude we share with each other.

reflection

Mon, 05 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

May 5, 2025
Houston, Texas USA

Dear Silkisondan Karate Masters and Respected Disciples, I hope this message finds you and your loved ones in good health, high spirits, and in harmony with the changing rhythm of the seasons.

There is no particular issue of protocol, regulation, or technical concern that prompts this message—no urgent matter of policy, nor any routine reminder. In truth, I reach out simply to share a reflection—a word that continues to echo deeply in my heart and, I believe, lies at the very center of our path: preparation.

Essential Elements of Silkisondan Karate Every Instructor Must Master

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Dear Master Ron, Rusty, and Kha,
I got a couple of lines that I want to share with all of you.
Master Thinh

The 5 Essential Elements of Silkisondan Karate Every Instructor Must Master

Class Environment:

Human nature thrives in environments where trust, growth, passion, and learning are prioritized. The dojo’s atmosphere plays a pivotal role in shaping the students’ development and creating a lasting impression. As an instructor, fostering an environment that supports these elements is vital for nurturing both skill and character. The right environment allows students to feel safe, challenged, and motivated to push their limits.

Class changes 2025

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

During recent classes I mentioned that I’ve had changes in my day job and subsequently need to make changes to the class schedule. Effective February 17, 2025, Tuesday and Thursday classes will no longer be available. I invite students to attend the 5:30 class if that better fits your schedule. I hope this change does not negatively impact you. Additionally the schedule - along with closings can be found at https://www.khaskarate.com/schedule/.

Message from Master Thinh - Lunar New Year 2025

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Dear Master Ron, Rusty, and Kha,

As the Lunar New Year approaches, I’d like to share some thoughts to start the year on a meaningful note.

There are certain things in life that we cannot make others change instantly—such as anger, emotions, thoughts, preferences, resentment, and hatred. Those who prepare for meditation learn to let go of these burdens in their minds while fostering an understanding of others. With this preparation, the benefits of meditation naturally begin to take root and transform the individual. This is one of the greatest realizations that meditation can offer.

In honor of Dao Thi Chinh

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Dao Thi Chinh

September 17, 1928 - January 15, 2025

In honor of Dao Thi Chinh, the mother of our founder and grandmother of our instructor, Kha’s Karate will be closed 1/21/2025- 1/28/2025.

Thank you.

Message from Master Thinh Holidays 2024

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dear Master Ron, Master Rusty, Master Kha, and all Silkisondan Karate followers,

As the holiday season approaches, I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and your families. With Christmas ahead and the New Year on the horizon, I sincerely hope this season brings peace, joy, and growth to all.

This time of year always fills me with reflection and gratitude, and I’d like to share something deeply meaningful to me after having lived in the U.S. for over 53 years.

Thanksgiving 2024

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dear Master Ron, Rusty, and Kha,

With Thanksgiving just around the corner and the holiday season following close behind, I want to take this opportunity to extend my warmest wishes to each of you and to all members of the Silkisondan Karate community. May you have a Happy Thanksgiving and a holiday season filled with love, peace, and blessings shared with your families.

I would also like to share the following thoughts with all members as a reminder of the importance of striving for self-improvement wherever possible.

Message from Master Thinh Q4 Black belt test

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Dear Master, Instructors, Black Belts, and Fellow Students, Last Saturday’s black belt test was a remarkable event to close out 2024, a testament to the hard work and dedication each of us has committed to our journeys. This occasion is truly a celebration of everyone’s commitment and growth.

Having participated in countless tests alongside Master Ron, Rusty, and Kha, I’ve come to recognize what truly stands out and what I’ve been seeking all along. While precise techniques and forms are vital, my focus goes beyond physical performance.

Halloween Party 2024

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Halloween 2024

AACC is sponsoring a Trick or Treat event on Thursday October 24, 2024

James Lee Community Center
2855 Annandale Road
Falls Church, VA 22042
October 27, 2024 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Volunteers to help set up at 4pm are greatly appreciated.

Q4 2024 Group Class

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

__Q4 2024 Group class __
Date: Saturday, October 19, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM
Location:
Old Central High School Gym
2748 Dogtown Rd
Goochland, VA 23063

Q4 black belt test

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Q4 black belt test

The Q4 black belt test will be held Saturday November 9, 2024 10:30 AM

9411 Staple Ln
Atlee, Virginia

Black belt candidates
Stephen Pham
Annikha Nguyen

All students are invited and encouraged to attend and support the testing students. Brown belts and up are invited to wear uniform.

Q4 rank belt test

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Q4 Rank belt test

The Q4 rank belt test will be held Saturday October 12, 2024 10:00 AM

6930 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, VA

Testing students will receive applications during class. All students are invited and encouraged to attend and support the testing students.

Tuition and Fees

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Quarterly payments

$150 per month per student
$35 annual membership fee per family.

Semi-annual payments

$135 per month for the first family member
$100 per month for each additional family member
$35 annual membership fee per family.

Annual payments

$120 per month for the first family member
$90 per month for the second family member
$60 per month for each additional member
1 Free student lightweight karate uniform per student with 1 year commitment and full payment up front.
Annual membership fee is waived if tuition is paid annually.

Q4 performance 2024

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Q4 Performances 2024

Q4 Performance will be on Saturday, September 21, 2024. There are two performances; details below. Everyone is welcome to attend and participate. Participating students should wear uniforms.

Saturday’s performance

First Performance

Taste of Annandale
https://tasteofannandale.com/
Karate Performance at 10:30 AM EST
Meet at the karate school at 9:30 AM EST, and carpool from there.

Second Performance

Kenmore Middle School
200 S Carlin Springs Rd
Arlington, VA 22204
Performance starts at 3:20PM EST.
Meet at 3:00 PM by the stage.

Q3 performance 2024

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Q3 Performances 2024

Saturday’s performance

To celebrate the Moon Cake Festival, Kha’s Karate is performing at

Eden Center Falls Church, VA

Saturday September 14, 2024
The event is from 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM. The karate school will perform at 2:00 PM. Students can meet at the karate school at 11:00 AM, and carpool from there.

Contact

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

For questions or comments please use the beloiw form or send an email to khaskarate@gmail.com

Contact

Q3 rank belt test

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Q3 Rank belt test

[tentative] The Q3 rank belt test will be held Saturday September , 2024 10:00 AM

6930 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, VA

Testing students will receive applications during class. All students are invited and encouraged to attend and support the testing students.

Back To School 2024

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Join AACC and James lee at the back to school resource fair. Thursday August 1, 2024 4-6pm.

call for volunteers

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

call for volunteers. Kha’s karate is looking for volunteers to handle site migration from Hugo -> either wordpress or drupal. This is sort of an unpaid internship. Candidates will learn basic web development. Email khaskarate@gmail.com for more details.

Thank you.

Milestones for promotion

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Proposed Milestones for promotion

White Belt

First stripe - Tie belt/student oath
Second stripe - Chon ji first half
Third stripe - Chon ji second half
Fourth stripe - One step (3 techniques)
Reverse Punch
Reverse overhead knife hand
side kick Attendance: 24 classes

Yellow Belt

First stripe - Dan gun first half
Second stripe - Dan gun second half
Third Stripe - One step (3 techniques)
Left foot to right foot, knife hand strike, step back strike
Right foot to left foot, step out horse riding stance palm push, punch
Step to the right, Roundhouse kick, back leg
Attendance: 24 classes minimum

Milestones for promotion (yellow belt)

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Proposed Milestones for promotion (yellow -> orange belt)

Yellow Belt

Promotion to adv green belt

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Proposed: Promotion to adv green belt

Adv green Belt

1 Do san ( stances)
2 Do san (blocks)
3 one step 3 techniques
Inward out, back hand, elbow-1, spin and elbow-2
Crescent kick, spin back kick
Roundhouse, hook kick, round house
4 3 kicks
Front kick (double motion)
Round house kick (double motion)
Side kick (cross double motion)

Attendance: minimum 40 classes

Promotion to green belt

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Proposed: Promotion to green belt

Green Belt

1 do san first half.
2 do san second half.
3 one step 3 techniques.
Crescent kick, side kick
Inward outer block, back hand attack
Step to the left ridge hand
4 3 kicks
Front kick (cross in front, rear foot)
Round house kick (cross in front, rear foot, jump)
Side kick (cross behind, rear foot, jump)
Attendance: 40 classes minimum

Promotion to orange belt

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Proposed: promotion to yellow -> orange belt

Orange Belt

First stripe - Dan gun
Emphasis on front stance
Emphasis on Back stance
Second stripe - Dan gun -
Emphasis on blocks/setups
Third stripe - One step (3 techniques)
Right foot to left foot, step out horse riding stance palm push, 3 punches
Sep back crescent kick, side kick
Step to the left roundhouse kick
Attendance: 24 classes minimum.

Promotion to yellow belt

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Proposed: promotion to yellow belt

White Belt

Lac Viet at the grand opening of Paris Banh Mi

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

[Lac Viet] Grand opening of Paris Banh Mi

Join Lac Viet and celebrate the grand opening of Paris Banh Mi

Saturday July 27, 2024 9:30AM

1150 Carl D. Silver Pkwy
Fredericksburg, VA

Q2 rank belt test

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Q2 Rank belt test

The Q2 rank belt test will be held Saturday June 29, 2024 10:00 AM

6930 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, VA

Testing students will receive applications during class. All students are invited and encouraged to attend and support the testing students.

Yellow Belt Test requirements

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Yellow Belt Test

Attendance

Minimum 3 months attendance

Basics

stance	technique
Front Stance	Low block, punch
Back Stance	Inner forearm block, double knife hand guardning
Horse riding stance	low block, punch

Kicks

Side Kick | Diagonal stance, cross behind
Round house kick | Cross in front, Round house kick

One Step Sparring

white belt techniques

over head knife hand
reverse punch.
side kick

Yellow Belt techniques

Step to the right, horse riding stance knife hands
Step to the left, horse riding stance punch
Round house kick

Forms

Chon-ji Do San

Katas Youtube

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

For those interested in following along and practicing at home, here is a link to Silkisondan Katas compiled by Master Ron:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?app=desktop&list=PLAhgu_u-ORGXhyn7Opj6yhc7rpv7vvn3s&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR3--XG9xXY9Zew4taSWtdHZ9MZTF60qIugKrGxTN64a8FLKKipkdEPIs30_aem_AdoBHz54Nfx_8lKLhGDFUQwkrqGsj4KcOgZ1hWL33AvGB_3HyrcgbB3FpiJk7cVAVsNFEo6XNlPV_usdnHadP0KP

2024 Lotus and Water Lily Festival

Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

2024 Lotus and Water Lily Festival

Please join us at the 2024 Lotus and Water Lily Festival July 20, 2024.
Kha’s karate and anphogettable will be performing.

https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-details.htm?id=1A053CA9-B617-657A-6DCFB0823E6B7A3D

Schedule of events

All students - current and past - and their families are encouraged to attend performances and demonstrations. Additionally current students that attend practice and participate in deonstrations and performances will receive credit towards their promotion to the next rank.

Master Thinh Karate Seminar 2024

Mon, 27 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Save the date Master Thinh Karate Seminar 2024
Date: TBD, Summer 2024
Time: TBD
Location:
Burke’s Karate Academy
1519 Capital Cir NE #25
Tallahassee, FL 32308

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Fri, 24 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Please join us in celebrating the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month this Saturday, May 25, 2024.

The Karate Bow

Wed, 08 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The Karate Bow

What does it mean to bow to another student or instructor? It means “teach me”.

You bow 3 times:
1 - When you come in
2 - To the teacher
3 - When you leave

The first bow means love
The second bow means “stay calm”
The third bow means enlightenment. Try to travel, find out how you are. Learn about yourself.

Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Festival 2024

Wed, 01 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Festival 2024

Please join us in celebrating the Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Festival on Saturday May 11, 2024 at the Mason District Park.

Kha’s Karate School will be participating and performing during this event.

Instructor training

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Effective Monday April 22, 2024:

In lieu of the Mon/Wed 7:45 class, I am restarting the instructor program. Brown belts and up will begin teaching as the lead with a backup instructor to assist. Additionally blue belts and adv blue belts will be asked to participate in running parts of the class(eg warmups, drills, basics).

To help maintain current training, a brown/black belt class will be held the first Monday of each month at the old timeslot: 7:45 - 9:00 PM, subject to change and availability. You will not be required to teach any week that we have a brown/black belt class. This means that on the first week of each month, no one will be required to teach, and there are 2 meets: Monday and Saturday.

Tuesday, Thursday Classes

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Starting Tuesday, April 9, 2024, classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays will be held at the James Lee Community Center. 6:15PM - 7:15 PM

Thank you.

Group class and seminar October 2024

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

All students invited:
Instructors and assistant instructors are encouraged to attend. October 5, 2024
Master Burke’s Karate Academy
Tallahassee, FL

Tuesday, Thursday Classes

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The Tuesday/Thursday class will be held at the location in Annandale for now. Class will start 6:00 PM - 7:15 PM.

Thank you for your understanding. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Master Kha.

Woodson inite

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Woodson inite
Woodson High School
Fairfax VA Friday 23, 2024 The show starts at 6:30PM. The potluck starts at 4:45

Tickets start at $10. Potluck is an additional $5 (or so). Reach out to Megan for additional questions.

Please come support Megan, Sarah, Stephen, and Mai.

Girl Scouts Cookies

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000

From Megan…

Craving your favorite Girl Scout Cookies? I’ve got you!

Now you can order the most delicious cookies right from the comfort and safety of your living room through my Digital Cookie® site, where you’ll also see my goal and a special message from me. You’ll be supporting my success, helping me learn essential skills, and powering new, unique, and amazing experiences for me and my troop all year long!

Thoughts from Master Thinh

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Thoughts from Master Thinh

December 22, 2023 Houston, Texas

Dear all Silkisondan Karate Students, Black Belts, Instructors and, Masters:

As the year is about to come to an end, and 2024 is right around the corner, I want to congratulate Master Ron Proffitt, Master Rusty Burke, and Master Kha Nguyen for taking the leadership role to move our training quality to a different level. Perhaps, all of these would not be possible, if there were no behind the scenes support from the spouses and other high ranking students. My deepest appreciation goes to these individuals.

Thoughts from Master Thinh

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Thoughts from Master Thinh (Draft)

Discussion topics

What is wisdon?

Wisdom and enlightenment is opp. Is he shy to your yourself? Wisdom you look outside? Never stop

But best way that’s where. If you if you keep doing it, there’s some point in time you become more aware where you don’t need to take time right? So you can react immediately but how do you get there? Teach them I just say hey let’s throw a punch. Keep punching you say no that’s wrong. That’s what’s right. Yeah that’s technical but what is beyond right? Because when you teach, you don’t really ask a student right? You walk with the student too. Find the answer for them. You you know the answer for you already correct? So when you teach martial art you are actually bring yourself to them level and to be one of them. So when you practice practice for both to get to that point and keep improving if that makes sense. You can take off the events no. But he’s saying bring it bring your level to their level. So if you are black belt to so they can figure it out on their own they can walk and they own with some of your instructions. But you don’t make them like behind a stick. Force them but help them encourage them. So so how do you get to the point that you be totally awaren? That’s the that’s the question. Okay let’s say you you play this right? Yes, you practice right so you keep practicing it and sometimes you make mistakes. Sometime you play better than the other. But when do you get to the point that you feel is right? I think it’s the same as as martial arts or play tennis. Or I mean you know the professional when they serve the ball goes so quick. If you think about it you done. Just no way that you can think of that. The ball goes so fast. So what is how do you get yourself to that level? Okay, when when you think about something when you think about something do not doing fully right? You need to learn to the point you don’t need to think about. First of all, like music, right? You don’t have to memorize right? You can just play it. So the first level you learn ABC right? And after ABC you play the song and after that you keep practicing and what from there? What above that teaching because people pick you out for you to play violin in that group. There’s a reason not just put what is that? When it come to an art when it come to performance dedication thing it’s it’s the top okay. When you listen to somebody who sing is that person in that song or the song in that person? Let me hear the thing karate the same way is karate in you or you in karate? Hello Sarah, what are you? What? What do you think so karate in you so it is on your mind right? But your mind is not on crying how about if we say this? This possibility karate is not even in you and you not even in karate because if the karate in you that just memory if you in karate if you are in karate in history, you’re not in presence. Is that right? Or is not right now where I can where I can talk to you this way inside and out. Okay let me ask you this. Okay? Let me just karate is the time bound that mean you have a time factor in karate just like love right? Just like if you love your dad or your mom, you don’t you don’t say hey. I only love you from 8:00 to 9:00 8:00 p.m. Right? You don’t so so is that love in you or you in love? To get a total picture right? Or the student in you? You in all the student? Can you see it so when when you’re in front of the class when you teach you feel like you should touch all of them and all of them should be in you. So what is attention? You want a student to pay attention to you right? So what is attention? What is focus? Don’t depend on words so much because one lead to another. What is attention? Okay attention mean total total total. Whatever it is that you attend nothing else. It present not in the past tension or attendance. Attention attention. What is paying attention exactly? That mean nothing in the past. Just here they they look at you. Whatever you say, whatever you do that’s they pay attention to it right now. Nothing else. No pass. No sorry no excuse

Dragon Dance Team

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Placeholder for announcement for dragon dance team

Thoughts from Master Thinh

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Thoughts from Master Thinh

A larger class moves slower.
A smaller class moves faster.
With a larger class, do fewer techniques. Sometimes doing less means doing more.

…on the topic of teaching, maintiaining good class rhythm and how to practice and present good technique.

Thoughts from Master Thinh

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Thoughts from Master Thinh

Dear Silkisondan Masters:

While the end of the year is fast approaching, I wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season.

I like to share with you a few thoughts regarding meditation.

What is meditation? What does one need to meditate?

Let’s find out the answers.

Inwardly, the brain is for learning and the mind is for living. We are our memories and memories are us. Thoughts come from memories. When a thought arrives at your awareness, it involves a movement of time.

Q and A with Master Thinh

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Q and A with Master Thinh 2023 [Draft]

What is meditation?

What is awareness?

What is mindfulness?

What is enlightenment?

What is wisdom?

What is discipline?

What is control?

What is respect?

What is dedication?

What is strength and weakness?

and what is LOVE?

What does karate training mean to you? How do you train(hard/soft/both)? How do you train when teaching class? What is the most important part of training to you?

What percentage of your training should be hard/soft? What percentage of a class should be for techniques/basics/sparring/forms?

How do you run a class for kids under 12 years old versus teenage kids? versus adults? Do you teach differently? if so, how?

How can you teach karate without taking so much time to talk and explain techniques?

When you teach how do you get students to do what you want without explicitly asking them to do so?

What minimum standards do you set for techniques? How do you enforce those standards?

How often do you use the bamboo stick? When do you use the bamboo stick? How do you decide who gets the bamboo stick?

How do you feel about weapons training?

What are good women’s self defense techniques to practice?

Should you supplement karate training with other sports and activities or is karate training enough?

How do you feel about tournaments?

Kha's Karate Test Schedule(2024)

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Test Schedule 2024 (proposed)

Rank Belt Test

Quarter	Time
First quarter test	Saturday January 27, 2024 10:00 AM, Annandale, Virginia
Second quarter test	Saturday April 27, 2024 10:00 AM, Annandale, Virginia
Third quarter test	Saturday July 27, 2024 10:00 AM, Annandale, Virginia
Fourth quarter rank belt test	Saturday, October 12, 2024 10:00 AM, Annandale, Virginia
Fourth quarter brown belt test	Saturday, October 26, 2024 10:00 AM, Annandale, Virginia

Black Belt test

Quarter	Time
Spring belt test	May TBD, 2024
Fall black belt test	November 9, 2024

Community International Festival 2023

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Community International Festival 2023

Update: 10/20/2023: Our group will be performing at 12:50 PM

Please join us in celebrating the Community International Festival this October 21, 2023.

Kha’s Karate School will be participating and performing during this event.

Halloween Party 2023

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Halloween 2023

AACC is sponsoring a Trick or Treat event on Friday October 27, 2023

James Lee Community Center
2855 Annandale Road
Falls Church, VA 22042
October 27, 2023 5:00 PM

Q4 rank belt test - October 28, 2023

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Q4 Rank belt test

The Q4 rank belt test will be held Saturday October 28, 2023 10:00 AM

6930 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, VA

Testing students will receive applications during class. All students are invited and encouraged to attend and support the testing students.

Austin Nguyen - Black belt test Nov 2023

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

November 18, 2023

Austin Nguyen: Testing to black belt

Saturday November 18, 2023 10:00 AM
Annandale, VA

Everyone is invited to attend. Unless previously approved, brown belts and up are invited to attend in uniform.

Kitty Pham - Black belt test Nov 2023

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

November 11, 2023

Kitty Pham: Testing to black belt

Saturday November 11, 2023 10:00 AM
Atlee Rec Center
9411 Staple Ln
Mechanicsville, VA

Everyone is invited to attend. Brown belts are invited to attend in uniform.

Zachary Nguyen - Black belt test Nov 2023

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

November 18, 2023

Zachary Nguyen: Testing to black belt

Saturday November 18, 2023 10:00 AM
Annandale, VA

Everyone is invited to attend. Unless previously approved, brown belts and up are invited to attend in uniform.

Demonstrations & performances

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Demonstrations & performances

Effective October 1, 2023

Students will receive credit for 1 week’s attendance for each demonstration that they attend and participate. This will go towards the time required for promotion. Regular demonstraction practices will be scheduled for the second Saturday of each month 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM in Annandale, VA.

Flu Shots

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Flu Shots

Update: unfortunately flu shots won’t be available this year at our location.

~~AACC will be offering flu shots at the karate school~~

~~Saturday October 7, 2023~~
~~1:00 PM - 5:00 PM~~

Note: to help with scheduling, there will be no class at 10:00 AM on October 7. Students can attend the class at 11:15 AM.

Thank you.

Q3 performance 2023

Sat, 23 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Q3 Performances 2023

Saturday’s performance

To celebrate the Moon Cake Festival, Kha’s Karate is performing at

Kenmore Middle School
200 S. Carlin Springs Rd
Arlington, VA

Saturday September 30, 2023
The event goes from 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM. The karate school will perform at 2:00 PM. Students can meet at the karate school at 11:00 AM, and carpool from there.

Sunday’s performance

Sunday October 1, 2023
Eden Center
Falls Church, VA The event goes from 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM. The karate school will perform at 2:00 PM. Meet around 1:00 PM at the event.

New class at James Lee

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Starting this week classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays will be held at James Lee Community Center

Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:15 PM - 7:30 PM James Lee Community Center 2855 Annandale Rd
Falls Church, VA 22042

Thoughts from Master Thinh

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Thoughts from Master Thinh

Karate Teaching Ways and Types

Silkisondan Masters:

I think this is a good time for me to share a few thoughts with you.

Karate Teaching Ways and Types: I have seen many, probably too many. One might ask why so many. The right answer is that everyone is doing a little teaching everywhere. My question to me as to what I do with my Karate teaching has always existed. Here is my reply to my question.

About

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000

About Silkisondan Karate

Silkisondan Karate is a system developed by Master Thinh Nguyen, 7th Dan, which is based in the original International Taekwondo Federation (ITF) style of Tae Kwon Do. Master Nguyen traveled to China and Japan where he earned equally high rankings in Judo, Kung Fu, and Karate.

Many years before the mixed martial arts craze, Master Nguyen combined these styles into a balanced martial arts system. Silkisondan Karate holds true to the traditional values of the martial arts. Our instructors teach from a love, respect and passion for these traditions. They earn their living elsewhere, so teaching is not a vocation for our Sensei; it is a calling. We have classes available in central Virginia area: including Richmond, Hanover (Mechanicsville), New Kent, and Goochland; In Northern Virginia: Ananndale, VA, and Florida: Tallahassee.

Demonstrations

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Overview

This is a general layout and suggestion for demonstrations. The music length is 8:27. Sections can be skipped or replaced if necessary and/or prefereed.
Not all breaking techniques will be used. Please use discretion. 2-board targets not necessary but optional.

Music

Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcvV1dg7LCw

Google Drive download MP3 Format

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Mou0mYLW-b5mKtrzAWDOx6UDpDbJQlAl

Outline / Format

Basics

Hands
- horse riding stance techniques. 5 each
- front stance
- back stance
Feet
- Front kick
- Round house
- Side kick

Kata

First kata (Chon Ji)
Second kata (intermediate kata)
Third kata (advanced kata)

1-step sparring

First group (hands)
Second group (feet)
Third group (advanced)

Free Sparring

First group (beginner)
Second group (intermediate)
Third group (advanced)

Breaking

Hands

Student Resources

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Demonstration music

Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcvV1dg7LCw

Google Drive download MP3 Format

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Mou0mYLW-b5mKtrzAWDOx6UDpDbJQlAl

Thoughts from Master Thinh

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Thoughts from Master Thinh

Kicking with the back leg versus kicking with the front leg…

The front leg is meant as a means of checking your opponent. You generate the most power using your back leg.

Reset

The thought of the reset in sparring is similar to boxers throwing a number of punches at each other and then breaking for a moment before throwing another set of punches. In karate we call this the reset. During a sparring session students should be able to exchange a number of techniques before resetting.

Cup & Supporter policy

Thu, 04 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Cup and Supporter policy

Kha’s Karate School is dedicated to ensuring the health, safety, and comfort for all students during practice. Effective May 9, 2023, male students will be required to wear a cup & supporter to class. Only those wearing one will be allowed to spar. Cups and supporters are available for purchase; see Megan or Cinnamon for details.

Thank you for your understanding.

Back Stance

Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Back Stance

Front kick

Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Front Kick

Front Stance

Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Front Stance

Horse Riding Stance

Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Horse Riding Stance

List of katas

Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Updated 2023-05-01

Katas

Effective May 1, 2023: the updated kata list is as follows. I am happy to continue practicing legacy katas with students, but students will be required to to perform the current katas successfully before doing so. The emphasis will be on a deeper learning and understanding of the current katas.

Core katas

Testing to	Kata	Notes
Yellow	Chon Ji	Current
Orange, Green	Dan Gun	Current
Adv Green, Blue	Do San	Current
Adv Blue, Brown	Yul Gok	Current
Int Brown	Toi Gye	Current
Adv Brown	Hwa Rang	Current
Black Belt	Choong Moo	Current
Black Belt	Baissai	Current
1st dan	Tekki Shodan	Current
1st dan	En Pi	Current
2nd dan	Kwang Gae	Current
3rd dan	Po Eun	Current
4th dan	Gae Baek	Current
5th dan	Ko Dang	Current
Demonstration Kata	Paka	Current

Legacy katas

Testing to	Kata	Notes
Green	Won Hyo	legacy kata
Blue	Joong Gun	legacy kata
1st dan	Tekki Nidan	legacy kata
3rd dan	Eui Am	legacy kata
3rd dan	Choong Jang	legacy kata
3rd dan	Choi Yong	legacy kata
4th dan	Sam Il	legacy kata
4th dan	Yoo Son	legacy kata
4th dan	Moon Mo	legacy kata
4th dan	Tong Il	legacy kata
no rank assigned	Juche	legacy kata
no rank assigned	Yong Gae	legacy kata
no rank assigned	Ul Ji	legacy kata
no rank assigned	So San	legacy kata
no rank assigned	Se Jong	legacy kata

Additional katas

Testing to	Kata	Notes
no rank assigned	Heian Sho Dan
no rank assigned	Heian Ni Dan
no rank assigned	Heian San Dan
no rank assigned	Heian Yon Dan
no rank assigned	Heian Go Dan
no rank assigned	Tekki San Dan
no rank assigned	Baissai Dai
no rank assigned	Kanku Sho
no rank assigned	Kanku Dai
no rank assigned	Jion
no rank assigned	Genkaku
no rank assigned	Hangetsu
no rank assigned	Jitte
no rank assigned	Chinte
no rank assigned	Sochin
no rank assigned	Meikyo
no rank assigned	Baissai Sho

One Step Sparring

Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

One Step Sparring

Round House Kick

Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Round House Kick

Side Kick

Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Side Kick

Megan Nguyen - Black belt test May 2023

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

May 27, 2023

Megan Nguyen: Testing to 1st Dan

Everyone is invited to attend. Brown belts are invited to attend in uniform.

Sarah Nguyen - Black belt test May 2023

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

May 27, 2023

Sarah Nguyen: Testing to black belt

Everyone is invited to attend. Brown belts are invited to attend in uniform.

Sensei Kha - Black Bel Test May 2023

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000

May 13, 2023

A luncheon will follow the test and should start around 11:30AM. I am also reaching out for volunteers to help with organizing and preparing the food; please reach out directly to Cinnamon (cinnapham@gmail.com) if you would like to help.

Thank you, Sensei Kha

Everyone is invited to attend. Brown belts are invited to attend in uniform.

Thoughts from Master Thinh

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Thoughts from Master Thinh

Kha's Karate

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Body. Mind. Spirit.

About Kha’s Karate

Kha’s Karate School was established in 2016 in Annandale, Virginia. In addition to learning aspects of self-discipline, self-control, respect, and character, Kha’s Karate teaches self defense with an emphasis on traditional martial arts. We welcome students of all ages and levels.

Location

6930 Little River Turnpike Suite A
Annandale, VA 22003
(703) 209-0729
khaskarate@gmail.com
www.khaskarate.com
Office hours: by appointment. See the Class Schedule page for hours of classes.

Thoughts from master thinh

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Thoughts from Master Thinh

If you can control yourself, you can control anything.

Holiday Potluck and Secret Santa 2022

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Holiday Potluck and Secret Santa

Please join us this Saturday December 17, 2022 at 1:00 PM for a holiday potluck followed by Secret Santa.

RSVP: khaskarate@gmail.com

Holiday Potluck and Secret Santa 6930 Little River Turnpike Annandale, VA 22003 Thursday December 17, 2022 1:00 PM EST

Potluck signup: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1p-U1hIk83VSrgqq7W2jO8-g7frk1WY0lKIvcGO0MNDQ/edit#gid=0

Brunch with Santa 2022

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Brunch with Santa 2022

Please join us in a bruncheon with Santa this Saturday December 10, 2022 at 10:30 AM

Q1 performance 2023

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Q1 Performance 2023

To celebrate the Lunar New Year, Kha’s Karate is performing with the schools in Richmond in January:

Weinstein Jewish Community Center 5403 Monument Ave Richmodn, VA 23226 Juanaury 8, 2023 6:00 PM

Promotion to black belt

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

One prerequisite for promotion to black belt will be that advanced brown belts will be required to demonstrate competency in running class while working out with said class. This includes:

Leading the student oath
Warmups
Basics
Drills
Forms
1 step sparring (No free sparring, no board breaking)

An instructor will be present at all times. Standard and intermediate brown belt students may be asked to participate in running small portions of the class. Credit will be applied towards their promotion.

The Best Builder

Sun, 13 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Best Builder

The richest landowner in the village who made so much money in his career and decide to retire. He looked for the best builder in the city to build a house.

He came across one and the best builder who also decided to build one more house before he retired. Both seemed to be a perfect match for each other.

Both agreed on pricing and construction schedule.

The scholar & ferryman

Sun, 13 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The scholar & ferryman

The scholar got on a small boat and asked a young ferryman to take him a cross a river.

The scholar started the conversation.

“Do you know history?”, asked the scholar “I am sorry no”, replied the ferryman

“Do you know geographic?”, asked again the scholar “I am sorry no”, replied again the ferryman

“Do you know fortune telling?”, asked again the scholar “I am sorry no”, replied the ferryman

Mask policy

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Mask policy

Kha’s Karate School is dedicated to ensuring the health, safety, and comfort for all students during practice. As of November 7, 2022, masks are optional so long as community transmission remains low. Should transmission increase, we will return to wearing masks during class.

Thank you for your understanding.

Black Belt Test Nov 2022

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Hello everyone, I just wanted to confirm the Nov. BB test details. The test will be held Sat. Nov. 5, 10a, at Atlee Rec. The candidates that will test are: Luke Hajacos - to 1st Dan Trey Choiunard - to 1st Dan Sensei Mark Wilds - to 3rd Dan Trey has a conflict with the Nov. 5 date and will be tested in class on Tues. Nov 1. Luke and Sensei Mark will test on Nov. 5. Master Burke plans to attend from Florida.

Community International Fesitavl 2022

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Community International Fesitval 2022

Please join us in celebrating the Community International Fesitval this October 22, 2022.

Kha’s Karate School will be participating and performing during this event.

Kha's Karate Test Schedule(2023)

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Test Schedule 2023

Rank Belt Test

Quarter	Time
First quarter test	Saturday January 14, 2023 10:00 AM, Annandale, Virginia
Second quarter test	Saturday April 15, 2023 10:00 AM, Annandale, Virginia
Third quarter test	Saturday July 15, 2023 10:00 AM, Annandale, Virginia
Fourth quarter test	Saturday, October 28, 2023 10:00 AM, Annandale, Virginia

Black Belt test

Quarter	Time
Spring belt test	TBD
Fall black belt test	TBD

Silkisondan Youtube links

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Silkisondan on Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqLDIkZ3eXS4iENVztVIDUQ

Master Thinh’s channel

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqkxHoSdbmIVWNchSLfR55Q

Message from Master Thinh

Sat, 26 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Message from Master Thinh

Dear Silkisondan Masters, Instructors, Black Belts, and Students:

I can’t even begin to tell you how much I look forward to seeing every one of you today. I have to take my wife to Vietnam to attend her father’s funeral. We lost him to lung cancer on Wednesday, March 16.

Vietnam is where I originally come from. I grew up and finished high school in 1970 and went to the US on April 27, 1971, as one of the few selected elite students for college education.

A Buddha

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

A Buddha

In Tokyo in the Meiji era there lived two prominent teachers of opposite characteristics. One, Unsho, an instructor in Shingon, kept Buddha’s precepts scrupulously. He never drank intoxicants, nor did he eat after eleven o’clock in the morning.

The other teacher, Tanzan, a professor of philosophy at the Imperial University, never observed the precepts. When he felt like eating he ate, and when he felt like sleeping in the daytime he slept.

A Cup of Tea

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

A Cup of Tea

Nan-in, a Japanese master during the Meiji era (1868-1912), received a university professor who came to inquire about Zen.

Nan-in served tea. He poured his visitor’s cup full, and then kept on pouring.

The professor watched the overflow until he no longer could restrain himself. “It is overfull. No more will go in!”

“Like this cup,” Nan-in said, “You are full of your own opinions and speculations. How can I show you Zen unless you first empty your cup?”

A Mother's Advice

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

A Mother’s Advice

Jiun, a Shingon master, war a well-known Sanskrit scholar of the Tokugawa era. When he was young he used to deliver lectures to his brother students.

His mother heard about this and wrote him a letter:

“Son, I do not think you become a devotee of the Buddha because you desire to turn into a walking dictionary for others. There is no end to information and commentation, glory and honor. I wish you would stop this lecture business. Shut yourself up in a little temple in a remote part of the mountain. Devote your time to meditation and in this way attain true realization.”

Accurate Proportion

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Accurate Proportion

Sen no Rikyu, a tea-master, wished to hang a flower basket on a column. He asked a carpenter to help him, directing the man to place it a little higher or lower, to the right or left, until he had found exactly the right spot.

“That’s the place,” said Sen no Rikyu finally.

The carpenter, to test the master, marked the spot and then pretended he had forgotten.

Announcement

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Announcement

Tanzan wrote sixty postal cards on the last day of his life, and asked an attendant to mail them. Then he passed away. The cards read:

I am departing from this world. This is my last announcement.

Tanzan

27 July 1892.

Arresting the Stone Buddha

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Arresting the Stone Buddha

A merchant bearing fifty rolls of cotton goods on his shoulder stopped to rest from the heat of the day beneath a shelter when a large stone Buddha was standing. Then he fell asleep, and when he awoke his goods had disappeared. He immediately reported the matter to the police.

A judge named O-oka opened court to investigate. “That stone Buddha must have stolen the goods,” concluded the judge. “He is supposed to care for the welfare of the people but he has failed to perform his holy duty. Arrest him”

Black-Nosed Buddha

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Black-Nosed Buddha

A nun who was searching for enlightenment made a statue of Buddha and covered it with gold leaf. Wherever she went she carried this golden Buddha with her.

Years passed and, still carrying her Buddha, the nun came to live in a small temple in a country where there were many Buddhas, each one with its own particular shrine.

The nun wished to burn incense before her golden Buddha. Not liking the idea of the perfume straying to the others, she devised a funnel through which the smoke would ascend only to her statue. This blackened the nose of the Golden Buddha making it especially ugly.

Calling Card

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Calling Card

Keichu, the great Zen teacher of the Meiji era, was the head of Tofuku, a cathedral in Kyoto. One day the governor of Kyoto called upon him for the first time.

His attendant presented the card of the governor, which read: Kitagaki, Governor of Kyoto.

“I have no business with such a fellow.” said Keichu to his attendant. Tell him to get out of here."

The attendant carried the card back with apologies. “That was my error,” said the governor and with a pencil he scratched out the words Governor of Kyoto. “Ask your teacher again.”

Children of His Majesty

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Children of His Majesty

Yamaoka Tesshu was a tutor of the emperor. He was also a master of fencing and a profound student of Zen. His home was the abode of vagabonds. He had but one suit of clothes, for they kept him always poor.

The emperor, observing how worn his garments were, gave Yamaoka some money to buy new ones. The next rime Yamaoka appeared he wore the same old outfit.

Eating the Blame

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Eating the Blame

Circumstances arose one day which delayed preparation of the dinner of a Sate Zen master, Fugai, and his followers. In haste the cook went to the garden with his curved knife and cut off the tops of green vegetables, chopped them together, and made soup, unaware that in his haste he had included a part of a snake in the vegetables.

The followers of Fugai thought they never had tasted such good soup. But when the master himself found the snake’s head in his bowl, he summoned the cook, “What is this?” he demanded, holding up the head of the snake.

Every-Minute Zen

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Every-Minute Zen

Zen students are with their masters at last ten years before they presume to teach others. Nan-in was visited by Tenno, who, having passed his apprenticeship, had become a teacher. The day happened to be rainy, so Tenno wore wooden clogs and carried an umbrella. After greeting him Nan-in remarked: “I suppose you left your wooden clogs in the vestibule. I want to know if your umbrella is on the right or left side of the clogs.”

Everything is Best

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Everything is Best

When Banzan was walking through a market he overheard a conversation between a butcher and his customer. “Give me the best piece of meat you have,” said the customer.

“Everything in my shop is the best,” replied me butcher. “You cannot find here any piece of meat that is not the best.” At these words Banzan became enlightened.

Finding a Diamond on a Muddy Road

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Finding a Diamond on a Muddy Road

Gudo was the emperor’s teacher of his time. Nevertheless, he used to travel alone as a wandering mendicant. Once when he was on his way to Edo, the cultural and political center of the shogunate, he approached a little village named Takenaka. It was evening and a heavy rain was falling. Gudo was thoroughly wet. His straw sandals were in pieces. At a farmhouse near the village he noticed four or five pairs of sandals in the window and decided to buy some dry ones.

Flower Shower

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Flower Shower

Subhuti was Buddha’s disciple. He was able to understand the potency of emptiness, the viewpoint that nothing exists except in its relationship of subjectivity and objectivity.

One day Subhuti, in a mood of sublime emptiness, was sitting under a tree. Flowers began to fall about him.

“We are praising you for your discourse on emptiness,” the gods whispered to him.

“But I have not spoken of emptiness,” said Subhuti.

Gisho's Work

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Gisho’s Work

Gisho was ordained as a nun when she was ten years old. She received training just as the little boys did. When she reached the age of sixteen she traveled from one Zen master to another, studying with them all.

She remained three years with Unzan, six years with Gukei, but was unable to obtain a clear vision. At last she went to meet master Inzan.

Inzan showed her no distinction at all on account of her sex. He scolded her like a thunderstorm. He cuffed her to awaken her inner nature.

Great Waves

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Great Waves

In the early days of the Meiji era there lived a well-known wrestler called O-nami, Great Waves.

O-nami was immensely strong and knew the art of wrestling. In his private bouts he defeated even his teacher, but in public was so bashful that his own pupils threw him.

O-nami felt he should go to a Zen master for help. Hakuju, a wandering teacher, was stopping in a little temple nearby, so O-nami went to see him and told him of his trouble.

Gudo and the Emperor

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Gudo and the Emperor

The emperor Goyozei was studying Zen under Gudo. He inquired: “In Zen this very mind is Buddha. Is this correct?” Gudo answered: “If I say yes, you will think that you understand without understanding. If I say no, I would be contradicting a fact which many understand quite well.”

On another day the emperor asked Gudo: “Where does the enlightened man go when he dies?”

Gudo answered: “I know not.”

Happy Birthday Silkisondan

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Happy birthday Silkisondan Karate and Master Thinh

This year marks the 50th birthday for Silkisondan Karate and 70th birthday for its founder, Master Thinh Nguyen.

We are expecting a birthday celebration for both. Stay tuned for details.

Happy Chinaman

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Happy Chinaman

Anyone walking about Chinatowns in America will observe statues of a stout fellow carrying a linen sack. Chinese merchants call him Happy Chinaman or Laughing Buddha.

This Hotei lived in the T"ang dynasty. He had no desire to call himself a Zen master or to gather many disciples about him. Instead he walked the streets with a big sack into which he would put gifts of candy, fruit, or doughnuts. These he would give to children who gathered around him in play. He established a kindergarten of the streets.

How Grass and Trees Become Enlightened

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

How Grass and Trees Become Enlightened

During the Kamkura period, Shinkan studied Tendai six years and then studied Zen seven years; then he went to China and contemplated Zen for thirteen years more.

When he returned to Japan many desired to interview him and asked obscure questions. But when Shinkan received visitors, which was infrequently, he seldom answered their questions.

One day a fifty-year-old student of enlightenment said to Shinkan: “I have studied the Tendai school of thought since I was a little boy, but one thing in it I cannot understand. Tendai claims that even the grass and trees will become enlightened. To me this seems very strange.”

If you Love, Love Openly

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

If You Love, Love Openly

Twenty monks and one nun, who was named Eshun, were practicing meditation with a certain Zen master.

Eshun was very pretty even though her head was shaved and her dress plain. Several monks secretly fell in love with her.

One of them wrote her a love letter, insisting upon a private meeting.

Eshun did not reply. The following day the master gave a lecture to the group, and when it was over, Eshun arose. Addressing the one who had written her, she said: “If you really love me so much, come and embrace me now.”

In Dreamland

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

In Dreamland

“Our schoolmaster used to take a nap every afternoon,” related a disciple of Soyen Shaku. “We children asked him why he did it and he told us: “I go to dreamland to meet the old sages just as Confucius did.” When Confucius slept, he would dream of ancient sages and later tell his followers about them.

“It was extremely hot one day so some of us took a nap. Our schoolmaster scolded us. “We went to dreamland to meet the ancient sages the same as Confucius did,” we explained. “What was the message from those sages?” our schoolmaster demanded. One of us replied: “We went to dreamland and met the sages and asked than if our schoolmaster came there every afternoon, but they said they had never seen any such fellow.”

In the Hands of Destiny

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

In the Hands of Destiny

A great Japanese warrior named Nobunaga decided to attack the enemy although he had only one tenth the number of men the opposition commanded. He knew that he would win, but his soldiers were in doubt.

On the way he stopped at a Shinto shrine and told his man, “After I visit the shrine I will toss a coin. If head comes we will win; if tails we will loose. Destiny holds us in her hand.”

Incense Burner

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Incense Burner

A woman of Nagasaki named Kame was one of the few makers of incense burners in Japan. Such a burner is a work of art to be used only in a tea room or before a family shrine.

Kame whose father before her had been such an artist, was fond of drinking. She also smoked and associated with men most of the time. Whatever she made a little money she gave a feast inviting artists, poets, carpenters, workers, men of many vocations and avocations. In their association she evolved her designs.

Inch Time Foot Gem

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Inch Time Foot Gem

A lord asked Takuan, a Zen teacher to suggest how he might pass the time. He felt his day very long attending his office and sitting stiffly to receive the homage of others.

Takuan wrote eight Chinese characters and gave them to the man:

Not twice this day Inch time foot gem This day will not come again. Each minute is worth a priceless gem.

Is That So?

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Is That So?

The Zen master Hakuin was praised by his neighbors as one living a pure life.

A beautiful Japanese girl whose parents owned a food store lived near him. Suddenly, without any warning, her parents discovered she was with child.

This made her parents very angry. She would not confess who the man was, but after much harassment at last named Hakuin. In great anger the parents went to the master. “Is that so?” was all he would say.

Joshu's Zen

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Joshu’s Zen

Joshu began the study of Zen when he was sixty years old and continued until he was eighty, when he realized Zen.

He taught from the age of eighty until he was one hundred and twenty. A student once asked him: “If I haven’t anything in my mind, what shall I do?”

Joshu replied: “Throw it out.”

“But if I haven’t anything how can I throw it out?” continued the questioner. “Well,” said Joshu, “then carry it out.”

Kasan Sweat

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Kasan Sweat

Kasan was asked to officiate at the funeral of a provincial lord. He had never met lords and nobler before so he was nervous.

When the ceremony started, Kasan sweated.

Afterwards, when he had returned, he gathered his pupils together. Kasan confessed that he was not yet qualified to be a teacher for he lacked the sameness of bearing in the world of fame that he possessed in the secluded temple. Then Kasan resigned and became the pupil of another master. Eight years later he returned to his former pupils, enlightened.

Killing

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Killing

Gasan instructed his adherents one day: “Those who speak against killing and who desire to spare the live of all conscious beings are right. It is good to protect even animals and insects. But what about those persons who kill time, what about those who are destroying wealth and those who destroy political economy? We should not overlook them. Furthermore, what of the one who preaches without enlightenment? He is killing Buddhism.”

Learning to be Silent

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Learning to be Silent

The pupils of the Tendai School used to study meditation before Zen entered Japan. Four of them who were intimate friends promised one another to observe seven days of silence.

On the first day all were silent Their meditation had begun auspiciously, but when night came and the oil-lamps were growing dim one of the pupils could not help exclaiming to a servant: “Fix those lamps.”

Mokusen's Hand

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Mokusen’s Hand

Mokusen Hiki was living in a temple in the province of Tamba. One of his adherents complained of the stinginess of his wife. Mokusen visited the adherent’s wife and showed her his clenched fist before her face.

“What do you mean by that?” asked the surprised woman.

“Suppose my fist were always like that. What would you call it?” he asked.

“Deformed,” replied the woman.

Then he opened his hand flat in her face and asked: “Suppose it were always like that. What then?” “Another kind of deformity,” said the wife.

Muddy Road

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Muddy Road

Tanzan and Ekido were once traveling together down a muddy road. A heavy rain was still falling. Coming around a bend, they met a lovely girl in a silk kimono and sash, unable to cross the intersection. “Come on, girl,” said Tanzan at once. Lifting her in his arms, he carried her over the mud.

Ekido did not speak again until that night when they reached a lodging temple. Then he no longer could restrain himself. “We monks don’t go near females.” He told Tanzan, especially not young and lovely ones. It is dangerous. Why did you do that?"

My Heart Burns Like Fire

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

My Heart Burns Like Fire

Soyen Shaku, the first Zen teacher to come to America, said: “My heart burns like fire but my eyes are as cold as dead ashes.” He made the following rules, which he practiced every day of his life.

In the morning before dressing, light incense and meditate.

Retire at a regular hour. Partake of food at regular intervals. Eat with moderation and never to the point of satisfaction.

No Attachment to Dust

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

No Attachment to Dust

Zengetsu, a Chinese master of the Tang dynasty, wrote the following advice for his pupils:

Living in the world yet not forming attachments to the dust of the world is the way of a true Zen student.

When witnessing the good action of another encourage yourself to follow his example. Hearing of the mistaken action of another, advise yourself not to emulate it.

Even though alone in a dark room, be as if you were facing a noble guest. Express your feelings, but become no more expressive than your true nature.

No Loving-Kindness

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

No Loving-Kindness

There was an old woman in China who had supported a monk for over twenty years. She had built a little hut for him and fed him while he was meditating. Finally she wondered just what progress he had made in all this time.

To find out, she obtained the help of a girl rich in desire. “Go and embrace him,” she told her;" and then ask him suddenly: “What now?”

No Water, No Moon

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

No Water, No Moon

When the nun Chiyono studied Zen under Bukko of Engarku she was unable to attain the fruits of meditation for a long time.

At last one moonlit night she was carrying water in an old pail bound with bamboo. The bamboo broke and the bottom fell out of the pail, and at that moment Chiyono was set free!

In commemoration, she wrote a poem:

In this way and that I tried to save the old pail Since the bamboo strip was weakening and about to break Until at last the bottom fell out.
No more water in the Pail! No more moon in the water!

Not Far from Buddhahood

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Not Far from Buddhahood

A university student while visiting Gasan asked him: “Have you ever read the Christian Bible?”

“No, read it to me,” said Gasan. The student opened the Bible and read from St Mattew: “And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow. They toil not, neither do they spin, and yet I say unto you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. …Take therefore no thought for the morrow, for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself.”

Obedience

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Obedience

The master Bankei’s talks were attended not only by Zen students but by persons of all ranks and sects. He never quoted sutras nor indulged in scholastic dissertations. Instead, his words were spoken directly from his heart to the hearts of his listeners.

His large audiences angered a priest of the Nichiren sect because the adherents had left to hear about Zen. The self-centered Nichiren priest came to the temple determined to debate with Bankei.

One Note of Zen

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

One Note of Zen

After Kakua visited the emperor he disappeared and no one knew what became of him. He was the first Japanese to study Zen in China, but since he showed nothing of it, save one note, he is not remembered for having brought Zen into his country.

Kakua visited China and accepted the true teaching. He did not travel while he was there. Meditating constantly, he lived on a remote part of a mountain. Whenever people found him and asked him to preach he would say a few words and then move to another part of the mountain where he could be found less easily.

Open Your Own Treasure House

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Open Your Own Treasure House

Daiju visited the master Baso in China.

Baso asked: “What do you seek?”

“Enlightenment,” replied Daiju.

“You have your own treasure house. Why do you search outside?” Baso asked.

Daiju inquired: “Where is my treasure house?”

Baso answered: “What you are asking is your treasure house.”

Daiju was enlightened! Ever after he urged his friends: “Open your own treasure house and use those treasures.”

Polishing the Sutras

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Publishing the Sutras

Tetsugen, a devotee of Zen in Japan, decided to publish the sutras, which at that time were available only in Chinese. The books were to be printed with wood block in an edition of seven thousand copies, a tremendous undertaking.

Tetsugen began by traveling and collecting donations for this purpose. A few sympathizers would give him a hundred pieces of gold, but most of the time he received only small coins. He thanked each donor with equal gratitude. After ten yens Tetsugen had enough money to begin his task.

Real Prosperity

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Real Prosperity

A rich man asked Sengai to write something for the continued prosperity of his family so that it might be treasured from generation to generation.

Sengai obtained a large sheet of paper and wrote: “Father dies, son dies, grandson dies.”

The rich man became angry. I asked you to write something for the happiness of my family! Why do you make such a joke as this?"

“No joke is intended,” explained Sengai. “If before you yourself die your son should die, this would grieve you greatly. If your grandson should pass away before your son, both of you would be broken hearted. If your family, generation after generation, passes away in the order I have named, it will be the natural course of life. I call this real prosperity.”

Reciting Sutras

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Reciting Sutras

A farmer requested a Tendai priest to recite sutras for his wife, who had died. After the recitation was over the farmer asked: “Do you think my wife will gain merit from this?”

“Not only your wife but all sentient beings will benefit from the recitation of sutras,” answered the priest.

“If you say all sentient beings will benefit,” said the farmer, “my wife may be very weak and others will take advantage of her, getting the benefit she should have. So please recite sutras just for her.”

Right and Wrong

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Right and Wrong

When Bankei held his seclusion weeks of meditation, pupils from many parts of Japan came to attend. During one of the gatherings a pupil was caught stealing. The matter was reported to Bankei with the request that the culprit be expelled. Bankei ignored the case.

Later the pupil was caught in a similar act, and again Bankei disregarded the matter. This angered the other pupils, who drew up a petition asking for the dismissal of the thief, stating that otherwise they would leave in a body.

Ryonen's Clear Realization

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Ryonen’s Clear Realization

The Buddhist nun known as Ryonen was born in 1797. She was a granddaughter of the famous Japanese warrior Shingen. Her poetical genius and alluring beauty were such that at seventeen she was serving the empress as one of the ladies of the court. Even at such a youthful age fame awaited her.

The beloved emperor died suddenly and Ryonen’s hopeful dreams vanished. She became acutely aware of the impermanency of life in this world. It was then that she desired to study Zen.

Shoun and His Mother

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Shoun and His Mother

Shoun became a teacher of Soto Zen. When he was still a student his father passed away, leaving him to care for his old mother.

Whenever Shoun went to a meditation hall he always took his mother with him. Since she accompanied him, when he visited monasteries he could not live with the monks. So he would build a little house and care for her there. He would copy sutras, Buddhist verses and in this manner receive a few coins for food.

Sleeping in the Daytime

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Sleeping in the Daytime

The master Soya Shaku passed from this world when he was sixty-one years of age. Fulfilling his life’s work, he left a great teaching, far richer than that of most Zen masters. His pupils used to sleep in the daytime during midsummer, and while he overlooked this he himself never wasted a minute.

When he was but twelve year old he was already studying Tendai philosophical speculation. One summer day the air had been so sultry that Little Soyen stretched his legs and went to sleep while his teacher was away.

Soldiers of Humanity

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Soldiers of Humanity

Once a division of the Japanese army was engaged in I sham battle, and some of the officers found it necessary to make their headquarters in Gasan’s temple.

Gasan told his cook: “Let the officers have only the same simple fare we eat.”

This made the army men angry, as they were used to very differential treatment. One came to Gasan and said: “Who do you think we are? We are soldiers, sacrificing our lives for our country. Why don’t you treat us accordingly?”

Sour Miso

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Sour Miso

The cook monk Dairyo, at Bankei’s monastery, decided that he would take good care of his old teacher’s health and give him only fresh miso, a paste of soy beans mixed with wheat and yeast that often ferments. Bankei, noticing that he was being served better miso than his pupils, asked: “Who is the cook today?”

Dairyo was sent before him. Bankei learned that according to his age and position he should eat only fresh miso. So he said to the cook: “Then you think I shouldn’t eat at all.” With this he entered his room and locked the door.

Stingy in Teaching

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Stingy in Teaching

A young physician in Tokyo named Kusuda met a college friend who had been studying Zen. The young doctor asked him what Zen was.

“I cannot tell you what it is,” the friend replied, “but one thing is certain. If you understand Zen, you will not be afraid to die.”

That’s fine: said Kusuda. “I will try it. Where can I find a teacher?" “Go to the master Nan-in,” the friend told him.

TA Smile in His Lifetime

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

A Smile in His Lifetime

Mokugen was never known to smile until his last day on earth. When his time came to pass away he said to his faithful ones: “You have studied under me for more than ten years. Show me your real interpretation of Zen. Whoever expresses this most clearly shall be my successor and receive my robe and bowl.”

Everyone watched Mokugen’s severe face but no one answered.

Temper

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Temper

A Zen student came to Bankei and complained: “Master, I have an ungovernable temper. How can I cure it?” “You have something very strange,” replied Bankei. “Let me see what you have.”

“Just now I cannot show it to you,” replied the other.

“When can you show it to me?” asked Bankei.

“It arises unexpectedly,” replied the student.

“Then,” concluded Bankei, “it must not be your own nature. If it were, you could show it to me at any time. When you were born you did not have if and your parents did not give it to you. Think that over.”

Ten Successors

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Ten Successors

Zen pupils take a vow that even if they are killed by their teacher, they intend to learn Zen. Usually they cut a finger and

seal their resolution with blood. In time the vow has become a men formality, and for this reason the pupil who died by the hand of Ekido was made to appear a martyr. Ekido had become a severe teacher. His pupils feared him. One of them on duty, striking the gong to tell the time of day, missed his beats when his eye was attracted by a beautiful girl passing the temple gate.

The Blockhead Lord

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Blockhead Lord

Two Zen teachers Daigu and Gudo, were invited to visit a lord. Upon arriving, Gudo said to the lord: “You are wise by nature and have an inborn ability to learn Zen.”

“Nonsense,” said Daigu “Why do you flatter this blockheads? He may be a lord, but he doesn’t know anything of Zen.” So, instead of building a temple for Gudo the lord built it for Daigu and studied Zen with him.

The Dead Man's Answer

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Dead Man’s Answer

When Mamiya, who later became a well-known preacher, went to a teacher for personal guidance, he was asked to explain the sound of one hand.

Mamiya concentrated upon what the sound of one hand might be. “You are not working hard enough,” his teacher told him. “You are too attached to food, wealth, things, and that sound. It would he better if you died. That would solve the problem.”

The First Principle

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The First Principle

When one goes to Obaku temple in Kyoto one sees carved over the gate the words “The First principle”. The letters are unusually large, and those who appreciate calligraphy always admire them as being a masterpiece. They were drawn by Kosen two hundred years ago.

When the master drew them he did so on paper, from which workmen made the larger carving in wood. As Kosen sketched the letters a bold pupil was with him who had made several gallons of ink for the calligraphy and who never failed to criticize his master’s work.

The Gates of Paradise

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Gates of Paradise

A soldier named Nobushige came to Hakuin, and asked: “Is there really a paradise and a hell?”

“Who are you?” Inquired Hakuin.

“I am a samurai,” the warrior replied.

“You, a soldier!” exclaimed Hakuin. “What kind of ruler would have you as his guard? Your face looks like that of a beggar.”

Nobushige became so angry that he began to draw his sword, but Hakuin continued: “So you have a sword! Your weapon is probably much too dull to cut off my head.”

The Giver Should be Thankful

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Giver Should be Thankful

While Seisetsu was the master of Engaku in Kamakura he required larger quarters, since those in which he was teaching were overcrowded. Umezu Seibei, a merchant of Edo, decided to donate five hundred pieces of gold called ryo toward the construction of a more commodious school. This money he brought to the teacher.

Seisetsu said: “All right. I will take it.”

Umezu gave Seisetsu the sack of gold, but he was dissatisfied with the attitude of the teacher. One might live a whole year on three ryo, and the merchant had not even been thanked for five hundred.

The Last Poem

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Last Poem of Hoshin

The Zen master Hoshin lived in China many years. Then he returned to the northeastern part of Japan, where he taught his disciples. When he was getting very old, he told them a story he had heard in China.

This is the story:

One year on the twenty-fifth of December, Tokufu, who was very old, said to his disciples: I am not going to be alive next year so you fellows should treat me well this year."

The Last Will and Testament

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Last Will and Testament

Ikkyu, a famous Zen teacher of the Ashikaga era, was the son of the emperor. When he was very young, his mother left the palace and went to study Zen in a temple. In this way Prince Ikkyu also became a student. When his mother passed on, she left him a letter. It read:

To Ikkyu:

I have finished my work in this life and am now returning Into Eternity. I wish you to become a good student and to realize your Buddha-nature. You will know if I am in hell and whether I am always with you or not.

The Moon cannot be Stolen

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Moon cannot be Stolen

Ryokan, a Zen master, lived the simplest kind of life in a little hut at the foot of a mountain. One evening a thief visited the hut only to discover there was nothing in it to steal.

Ryokan returned and caught him. “You may have come a long way to visit me,” he told the prowler, “and you should not return empty-handed. Please take my clothes as a gift.”

The Most Valuable Thing in the World

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Most Valuable Thing in the World

Sozan, a Chinese Zen master, was asked by a student: “What is the most valuable thing in the world?” The master replied: The head of a dead cat."

“Why is the head of a dead cat the most valuable thing in the world?” inquired the student. Sozan replied: “Because no one can name its price.”

The Real Miracle

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Real Miracle

When Bankei was preaching at Ryumon temple, a Shinshu priest, who believed in salvation through the repetition of the name of the Buddha of Love, was jealous of his large audience and wanted to debate with him.

Bankei was in the midst of a talk when the priest appeared but the fellow made such a disturbance that Bankei stopped his discourse and asked about the noise.

“The founder of our sect,” boasted the priest, “had such miraculous powers that he held a brush in his hand on one bank of the river, his attendant held up a paper on the other bank, and the teacher wrote the holy name of Amida through the air. Can you do such a wonderful thing?”

The Sound of One Hand

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Sound of One Hand

The masts of Kennin temple was Mokurai, Silent Thunder. He had a little protégé named Toyo who was only twelve years old. Toyo saw the olds disciples visit the masters room each morning and evening to receive instruction in sanzen or personal guidance in which they were given koans to stop mind-wandering.

Toro wished to do sanzen also.

“Wait a while,” said Mokurai. “You are too young.”

The Stingy Artist

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Stingy Artist

Gessen was an artist monk. Before he would start a drawing or painting he always insisted upon being paid in advance and his fees were high. He was known as the “Stingy Artist”.

A geisha once gave him a commission for a painting. “How much can you pay?” inquired Gessen. “Whatever you charge,” replied the girl, “but I want you to do the work in front of me.”

The Stone Mind

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Stone Mind

Hogen, a Chinese Zen teacher, lived alone in a small temple in the country. One day four traveling monks appeared and asked if they might make a fire in his yard to warm themselves.

While they were building the fire, Hogen heard them arguing about subjectivity and objectivity. He joined them and said: There is a big stone. Do you consider it to be inside or outside your mind?"

The Story of Shunkai

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Story of Shunkai

The exquisite Shunkai whose other name was Suzu was compelled to marry against her wishes when she was quite young. Later, after this marriage had ended, she attended the university, where she studied philosophy.

To see Shunkai was to fall in love with her. Moreover, wherever she went, she herself fell in love with others. Love was with her at the university, and afterwards, when philosophy did not satisfy her and she visited a temple to learn about Zen, the Zen students fell in love with her. Shunkai’s whole life was saturated with love.

The Subjugation of a Ghost

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Subjugation of a Ghost

A young wife fell sick and was about to die. “I love you so much,” she told her husband, “I do not want to leave you. Do not go from me to any other woman. If you do, I will return as a ghost and cause you endless trouble.”

Soon the wife passed away. The husband respected her last wish for the first three months but then he met another woman and fell in love with her. They became engaged to be married.

The Tea-Master and the Assassin

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Tea-Master and the Assassin

Taiko, a warrior who lived in Japan before the Tokugawa era, studied Cha-no-yu, tea etiquette, with Sen no Rikyu, a teacher of that aesthetical expression of calmness and contentment.

Taiko’s attendant warrior Kato interpreted his superior’s enthusiasm for tea etiquette as negligence of state affairs, m he decided to kill Sen no Rikyu. He pretended to make a social call upon the tea-master and was invited to drink tea.

The THief Who Became a Disciple

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Thief Who Became a Disciple

One evening as Shichiri Kojun was reciting sutras a thief with a sharp sword entered, demanding either his money or his life, Shichiri told him: “Do not disturb me. You an find the money in that drawer.” Then he resumed his recitation.

A little while afterwards he stopped and called: “Don’t take it all. I need some to pay taxes with tomorrow.”

The intruder gathered up most of the money and started to leave. “Thank a person when you receive a gift,” Shichiri added. The man thanked him and made off.

The True Path

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The True Path

Just before Ninakawa passed away the Zen master Ikkyu visited him. “Shall I lead you on?” Ikkyu asked. Ninakawa replied: “I came here alone and I go alone. What help could you be to me?”

Ikkyu answered: “If you think you really come and go, that is your delusion. Let me show you the path on which there is no coming and no going.”

With his words Ikkyu had revealed the path so clearly that Ninakawa smiled and passed away.

The Tunnel

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Tunnel

Zenkai, the son of a samurai, journeyed to Edo and there became the retainer of a high official. He fell in love with the official’s wife and was discovered. In self-defense, he slew the official. Then he ran away with the wife.

Both of them later became thieves. But the woman was so greedy that Zenkai grew disgusted. Finally, leaving her, he journeyed far away to the province of Buzen, where he became a wandering mendicant.

The Voice of Happiness

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

The Voice of Happiness

After Bankei had passed away, a blind man who lived near the master’s temple told a friend: “Since I am blind, I cannot watch a person’s face, so I must judge his character by the sound of his voice. Ordinarily when I hear someone congratulate another upon his happiness or success, I also hear a secret tone of envy. When condolence is expressed for the misfortune of another. I hear pleasure and satisfaction as if the one condoling was really glad there was something left to gain in his own world.”

Three Days More

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Three Days More

Suiwo, the disciple of Hakuin, was a good teacher. During one summer seclusion period, a pupil came to him from a southern island of Japan.

Suiwo gave him the problem: “Hear the sound of one hand.”

The pupil remained three years but could not pass this test. One night he came in tears to Suiwo. “I must return south in shame and embarrassment,” he said, “for I cannot solve my problem.”

Trading Dialogue for Lodging

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Trading Dialogue for Lodging

Provided he makes and wins an argument about Buddhism with those who live there, any wandering monk can remain in a Zen temple. If he is defeated, he has to move on.

In a temple in the northern part of Japan two brothers monks were dwelling together. The elder one was learned, but the younger one was stupid and had but one eye.

A wandering monk came and asked for lodging properly challenging them to a debate about the sublime teaching. The elder brother, tired that day from much studying, told the younger one to take his place. “Go and request the dialogue in silence,” he cautioned.

True Reformation

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

True Reformation

Ryokan devoted his life to the study of Zen. One day he heard that his nephew, despite the admonitions of relatives, was spending his money on a courtesan. Inasmuch as the nephew had taken Ryokan’s place in managing the family estate and the property was in danger of being dissipated, the relatives asked Ryokan to do something about it.

Ryokan had to travel a long way to visit his nephew, whom he had not seen for many years. The nephew seemed pleased to meet his uncle again and invited him to remain overnight.

What Are You Doing! What Are You Saying!

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

What Are You Doing! What Are You Saying!

In modern times a great deal of nonsense is talked about masters and disciples, and about the inheritance of a master’s teaching by favorite pupils, entitling them to pass the truth on to their adherents. Of course Zen should be imparted in this way, from heart to heart, and in the past it was really accomplished. Silence and humility reigned rather than profession and assertion. The one who received such a teaching kept the matter hidden even after twenty years. Not until another discovered through his own need that a real master was at hand was it learned that the teaching had been imparted, and even then the occasion arose quite naturally and the teaching made its way in its own right. Under no circumstance did the teacher ever claim “I am the successor of So-and-so.” Such a claim would prove quite the contrary

Your Light May Go Out

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Your Light May Go Out

A student of Tendai, a philosophical school of Buddhism, came to the Zen abode of Gasan as a pupil. When he was departing a few years later, Gasan warned him: “Studying the truth speculatively is useful as a way of collecting preaching material. But remember that unless you meditate constantly your light of truth may go out.”

Zen in a Beggar's Life

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000

Zen in a Beggar’s Life

Tosui was a well-known Zen teacher of his time. He had lived in several temples and taught in various provinces.

The last temple he visited accumulated so many adherents that Tosui told them he was going to quit the lecture business entirely. He advised them to disperse and to go wherever they desired. After that no one could find any trace of him.

Three years later one of his disciples discovered him living with some beggars under a bridge in Kyoto. He at once implored Tosui to teach him.

Q and A with Master Thinh

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Q and A with Master Thinh 2021

What do you think is the most impactful part of karate training?

It’s always on my mind when you have a room full of kids and adults, men and women that come from all walks of life. They come in and do the same techinque knowing they all will be diffrent even if they look the same but on their mind and their future what they do is different.

Reopening

Wed, 05 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Kha’s Karate is reopening May 11, 2021

I am happy to announce that Kha’s Karate will be reopening doors May 11. The revised schedule is as follows:

Class schedule

https://www.khaskarate.com/schedule/

COVID restrictions apply. Please contact us directly for scheduling and attendance.

Full Awareness

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Full Awareness

After ten years of apprenticeship, Tenno achieved the rank of Zen teacher. One rainy day, he went to visit the famous master Nan-in. When he walked in, the master greeted him with a question, “Did you leave your wooden clogs and umbrella on the porch?”

“Yes,” Tenno replied.

“Tell me,” the master continued, “did you place your umbrella to the left of your shoes, or to the right?”

Working Hard

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Working Hard

A martial arts student went to his teacher and said earnestly, “I am devoted to studying your martial system. How long will it take me to master it.”

The teacher’s reply was casual, “Ten years.” Impatiently, the student answered, “But I want to master it faster than that. I will work very hard. I will practice every day, ten or more hours a day if I have to. How long will it take then?”

The Other Side

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000

The Other Side

One day a young Buddhist on his journey home came to the banks of a wide river. Staring hopelessly at the great obstacle in front of him, he pondered for hours on just how to cross such a wide barrier.

Just as he was about to give up his pursuit to continue his journey he saw a great teacher on the other side of the river. The young Buddhist yells over to the teacher, “Oh wise one, can you tell me how to get to the other side of this river”?

Relaunch of khaskarate.com

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the new site for khaskarate.com

I’m excited to announce the relaunch of our website. Feel free to test and report bugs, send suggestions, comments, or say hi. Thanks for stopping by!

Want to know more about this site? Interested in doing something similar to this? I’m happy to show you what I’ve done, or have a look-see for yourself at https://gohugo.io/.

Chasing Two Rabbits

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Chasing Two Rabbits

A martial arts student approached his teacher with a question. “I’d like to improve my knowledge of the martial arts. In addition to learning from you, I’d like to study with another teacher in order to learn another style. What do you think of this idea?” “The hunter who chases two rabbits,” answered the master, “catches neither one.”

Empty Your Cup

Thu, 12 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Empty Your Cup

A university professor went to visit a famous Zen master. While the master quietly served tea, the professor talked about Zen. The master poured the visitor’s cup to the brim, and then kept pouring. The professor watched the overflowing cup until he could no longer restrain himself. “It’s overfull! No more will go in!” the professor blurted. “You are like this cup,” the master replied, “How can I show you Zen unless you first empty your cup.”

Learning the Hard Way

Sat, 01 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Learning the Hard Way

The son of a master thief asked his father to teach him the secrets of the trade. The old thief agreed and that night took his son to burglarize a large house. While the family was asleep, he silently led his young apprentice into a room that contained a clothes closet. The father told his son to go into the closet to pick out some clothes. When he did, his father quickly shut the door and locked him in. Then he went back outside, knocked loudly on the front door, thereby waking the family, and quickly slipped away before anyone saw him. Hours later, his son returned home, bedraggled and exhausted. “Father,” he cried angrily, “Why did you lock me in that closet? If I hadn’t been made desperate by my fear of getting caught, I never would have escaped. It took all my ingenuity to get out!” The old thief smiled. “Son, you have had your first lesson in the art of burglary.”

Learning the Hard Way

Sat, 01 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000

Learning the Hard Way

Student Oath

Fri, 11 Mar 2016 00:00:00 +0000

All students should learn, memorize and understand the student oath.

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

A Parable

Buddha told a parable in a sutra: A man traveling across a field encountered a tiger. He fled, the tiger after him. Coming to a precipice, he caught hold of the root of a wild vine and swung himself down over the edge. The tiger sniffed at him from above. Trembling, the man looked down to where, far below, mother tiger was waiting to eat him. Only the vine sustained him.

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Eshun’s Departure

When Eshun, the Zennun, was past sixty and about to leave the world, she asked some monks to pile up wood in the yard. Seating herself firmly in the center of the funeral pyre, she had it set fire around the edges.

“O nun!” shouted the monk, “is it hot in there?”

“Such a matter would concern only a stupid person like yourself,” answered Eshun.

The flames arose, and she passed away.

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Just Go to Sleep

Gasan was sitting at the bedside of Tekisui three days before his teacher’s passing. Tekisui had already chosen him as his successor.

A temple recently had burned and Gasan was busy rebuilding the structure. Tekisui asked him: “What are you going to do when you get the temple rebuilt?”

“When your sickness is over we want you to speak there,” said Gasan. “Suppose I do not live until then?”

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Nothing Exists

Yamaoka Tesshu, as a young student of Zen, visited one master after another. He called upon Dokuon of Shokoku.

Desiring to show his attainment, he said: “The mind, Buddha, and sentient beings, after all, do not exist. The true nature of phenomena is emptiness. There is no realization, no delusion, no sage, no mediocrity. There is no giving and nothing to be received.”

Dokuon, who was smoking quietly, said nothing. Suddenly he whacked Yamaoka with his bamboo pipe. This made the youth quite angry.

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

No Work, No Food

Hyakujo, the Chinese Zen master, used to labor with his pupils even at the age of eighty, trimming the gardens, cleaning the grounds, and pruning the trees.

The pupils felt sorry to see the old teacher working so hard, but they knew he would not listen to their advice to stop, so they hid away his tools.

That day the master did not eat. The next day he did not eat, nor the next. “He may be angry because we have hidden his tools,” the pupils surmised. “We had better put than back.”

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

True Friends

A long time ago in China there were two friends, one who played the harp skillfully and one who listened skillfully.

When the one played or sang about a mountain, the other would say: “I can see the mountain before us.” When the one played about water, the listener would exclaim: “Here is the running stream!”

But the listener fell sick and died. The first friend cut the strings of his harp and never played again. Since that time the cutting of harp strings has always been a sign of intimate friendship.

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Time to Die

Ikkyu, the Zen master, was very clever even as a boy. His teacher had a precious teacup, a rare antique. Ikkyu happened to break this cup and was greatly perplexed. Hearing the footsteps of his teacher, he held the pieces of the cup behind him. When the master appeared, Ikkyu asked: “Why do people have to die?”

“This is natural,” explained the older man. “Everything has to die and has just so long to live.” Ikkyu, producing the shattered cup, added: “It was time for your cup to die.”

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

The Living Buddha and the Tubmaker

Zen masters give personal guidance in a secluded room. No one enters while teacher and pupil are together.

Mokurai, the Zen master of Kennin temple in Kyoto, used to enjoy talking with merchants and newspapermen as well as with his pupils. A certain tubmaker was almost illiterate. He would ask foolish questions of Mokurai have tea, and then go away.

One day while the tubmaker was there Mokurai wished to give personal guidance to a disciple so he asked the tubmaker to wait in another room.

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Three Kinds of Disciples

A Zen master named Gettan lived in the latter part of the Tokugawa era. He used to say: “There are three kinds of disciples: those who impart Zen to others, those who maintain the temples and shrines, and then there are the rice bags and the clothes-hangers.”

Gasan expressed the same idea. When he was studying under Tekisui, his teacher was very severe. Sometimes he even beat him. Other pupils would not stand this kind of teaching and quit. Gasan remained saying: “A poor disciple utilizes a teacher’s influence. A fair disciple admires a teacher’s kindness. A good disciple grows strong under a teacher’s discipline.”

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

How to Write a Chinese Poem

A well-known Japanese poet was asked how to compose a Chinese poem. The usual Chinese poem is four lines," he explained. The first line contains the initial phrase; the second line, the continuation of that phase; the third line turns from this subject and begins a new one; and the fourth line brings the first three lines together. A popular Japanese song illustrates this:

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Zen Dialogue

Zen teachers train their young pupils to express themselves. Two Zen temples; each had a child protégé. One child going to obtain vegetables each morning would meet the other on the way.

“Where are you going?” asked the one.

“I am going wherever my feet go.” the other responded.

This reply puzzled the first child who went to his teacher for help.

“Tomorrow morning,” the teacher told him, “when you meet that little fellow, ask him the same question. He will give you the same answer, and then you ask him: “Suppose have no feet, then where are you going!” That will fix him.”

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

The Last Rap

Tangen had studied with Sengai since childhood. When he was twenty he wanted to leave his teacher and visit others for comparative study, but Sengai would not permit this. Every time Tangen suggested it, Sengai would give him a rap on the head.

Finally Tangen asked an elder brother to coax permission from Sengai. This the brother did and then reported to Tangen: “It is arranged. I have fixed it for you to start on your pilgrimage at once.”

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

The Taste of Banzo’s Sword

Matajuro Yagyu was the son of a famous swordsman. His father, believing that his son’s work was too mediocre to anticipate mastership, disowned him.

So Matajuro went to Mount Fuhra and there found the famous swordsman Banzo. But Banzo confirmed the father’s judgment. “You wish to learn swordsmanship under my guidance?” asked Banzo. “You cannot fulfill the requirements.”

“But if I work hard, how many years will it take me to be come a master?” persisted the youth. “The rest of your life,” replied Banzo.

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Fire-Poker Zen

Hakuin used to tell his pupils about an old woman who had a teashop, praising her understanding of Zen. The pupils refused to believe what he told them and would go to the teashop to find out for themselves.

Whenever the woman saw them coming she could tell it once whether they had come for tea or to look into her grasp of Zen. In the former case, she would serve them graciously. In the latter, she would beckon to the pupils to come behind her screen. The instant they obeyed, she would strike them with a fire-poker.

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Storyteller’s Zen

Encho was a famous storyteller. His tales of love stirred the hearts of his listeners. When he narrated a story of war, it was as if the listeners themselves were on the field of battle.

One day Encho met Yamaoka Tesshu, a layman who had almost embraced master hood in Zen. “I understand,” said Yamaoka, “you are the best storyteller in our land and that you make people cry or laugh at will. Tell me my favorite story of the Peach Boy. When I was a little tot I used to sleep beside my mother, and she often related this legend. In the middle of the story I would fall asleep. Tell it to me just is my mother did.”

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Midnight Excursion

Many pupils were studying meditation under the Zen master Sengai. One of them used to arise at night, climb over the temple wall, and go to town on a pleasure jaunt.

Sengai, inspecting the dormitory quarters, found this pupil missing one night and also discovered the high stool he had used to scale the wall. Sengai removed the stool and stood there in its place.

When the wanderer returned, not knowing that Sengai was the stool he put his feet on the master’s head and jumped down into the grounds. Discovering what he had done, he was aghast.

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

A Letter to a Dying Man

Bassui wrote the following letter to one of his disciples who was about to die:

“The essence of your mind is not born so it will never die. It is not an existence, which is perishable. It is not an emptiness, which is a mere void. It has neither color nor form. It enjoys no pleasures and suffers no pain.”

“I know you are very ill. Like a good Zen student, you are facing that sickness squarely. You may not know exactly who is suffering, but question yourself: What is the essence of this mind? Think only of this. You will need no more. Covet nothing. Your end which is endless is as a snowflake dissolving in the pure air.”

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

A Drop of Water

A Zen master named Gisan asked a young student to bring him a pail of water to cool his bath.

The student brought the water and, after cooling the bath, threw on to the ground the little that was left over.

“You dunce!” the master scolded him. “Why didn’t you give the rest of the water to the plants? What right have you to waste even a drop of water in this temple?”

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Teaching the Ultimate

In early times in Japan, bamboo-and-paper lanterns wee used with candles inside. A blind man, visiting a friend one night was offered a lantern to carry home with him.

“I do not need a lantern,” he said. Darkness or light is all the same to me"

“I know you do not need a lantern to find your way,” his friend replied, “but if you don"t have one someone else may run into you. So you must take it.”

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Non-Attachment

Kitano Gempo, abbot of Eihei temple was ninety-two years old when he passed away in the year 1933. He endeavored his whole life not to be attached to anything. As a wandering mendicant when he was twenty he happened to meet a traveler who smoked tobacco. As they walked together down a mountain road they stopped under a tree to rest. The traveler offered Kitano a smoke, which he accepted, as he was very hungry at the time.

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Tosui’s Vinegar

Tosui was the Zen master who left the formalism of temples to live under a bridge with beggars. When he was getting very old, a friend helped him to earn his living without begging. He showed Tosui how to collect rice and manufacture vinegar from it and Tosui did this until he passed away.

While Tosui was making vinegar, one of the beggars gave him a picture of the Buddha. Tosui hung it on the wall of his hut and put a sign beside it. The sign read:

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

The Silent Temple

Shoichi was a one-eyed teacher of Zen, sparkling with enlightenment. He taught his disciple in Tofuku temple.

Day and night the whole temple stood in silence. There was no sound at all.

Even the reciting of sutras was abolished by the teacher. His pupils had nothing to do but meditate.

When the master passed away, an old neighbor heard the ringing of bells and the recitation of sutras. Then she knew Shoichi had gone.

Mon, 01 Jan 0001 00:00:00 +0000

Buddha’s Zen

Buddha said:

“I consider the positions of kings and rulers as that of dust motes. I observe treasure of gold and gems as so many bricks and pebbles. I look upon the finest silken robes as tattered rags. I see myriad worlds of the universe as small seeds of fruit, and the greatest lake in India as a drop of oil on my foot. I perceive the teachings of the world to be the illusion of magicians. I discern the highest conception of emancipation as golden brocade in a dream, and view the holy path of the illuminated one as flowers appearing in one’s eyes. I see meditation as a pillar of a mountain, Nirvana as a nightmare of daytime. I look upon the judgment of right and wrong as the serpentine dance of a dragon, and the rise and fall of beliefs as but traces left by the four seasons.”