MIZU GAMI THE ISSHINRYU EMBLEM

When Master Shimabuku was developing Isshinryu Karate, he had a dream that seemed to express in symbols what he was trying to accomplish with his system of Karate. While interpretations of the symbols may vary, the interpretations listed below are fairly standard.

Woman: A sea goddess, half-serpent, named Mizu Gami, symbolizing the quietness a Karate student should exhibit, but having the strength of the serpent if needed. Left Hand Open: A sign of peace. Left Hand Clenched: Represents strength if evil persists. Dragon: The dragon has forced himself above the troubles of life and the world into the peace and quiet (symbolized by the grey night sky) that we all seek through the knowledge of Karate. Sign of good luck; that Isshinryu karate will prosper. Also the master's first name "Tatsuo" means "Dragon Boy". Three Stars: Virtues, growths, and aspects of Isshinryu karate: physical, mental, and spiritual. The 3 masters under whom Shimabuku studied. Grey Background: Calm and quiet nights - that karate is used for defense only. Writing: Spells "Isshinryu" karate Troubled Water: Indicates a typhoon, danger that cannot be seen; the troubles of life, to be mastered through discipline in karate training.

In essence, the symbols are saying that you should avoid trouble if possible, and use karate only as a last resort.

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