IN THE NAME OF GOD, MOST GRACIOUS, MOST MERCIFUL
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A MUSLIM MARTIAL ARTIST?
PART 1
Essential requisites for self development through the martial arts.
This is the first in a series of articles in which I will explain what I believe, in my opinion, are the necessary requisites and actions needed for the development of an Islamic personality through the practice of the martial arts.
However it is necessary to first understand the concept of self development, its place in the Islamic paradigm and its relationship with the martial arts.
Self development is the process of improving one’s self in order to realise dreams, actualise visions and attain goals. It is not limited to any one field or area of life but encompasses ones entire being, from ones personal, social and professional life. Common examples of self development are; improving one’s health, pursuing an education, improving ones work skills or developing ones talents or trying to enhance ones spirituality.
Tazkiyah includes both the ideas of self purification and self development. The Qur’an affirms the importance of Tazkiyah when Allah says
“But only he (will prosper) that brings to Allah a sound heart.” (Surah Ash-Shu'araa Ayah 89)
As can be seen the ultimate aim of Tazkiyah is the purification of one’s soul for the pleasure of God. Islam being a Way of Life in the broadest sense places importance on all areas of an individual’s life. This is true; be they the physical, mental and spiritual dimensions, as well as ones personal and public life. All are inter-related and all have an effect on the soul. Therefore it is only logical that we should strive to improve and develop ourselves holistically.
“But only he (will prosper) that brings to Allah a sound heart.” (Surah Ash-Shu'araa Ayah 89)
As can be seen the ultimate aim of Tazkiyah is the purification of one’s soul for the pleasure of God. Islam being a Way of Life in the broadest sense places importance on all areas of an individual’s life. This is true; be they the physical, mental and spiritual dimensions, as well as ones personal and public life. All are inter-related and all have an effect on the soul. Therefore it is only logical that we should strive to improve and develop ourselves holistically.
The martial arts, be they from the East or the West, ancient or modern, have for centuries been used as a tool to enable man to develop the necessary qualities to reach his full human potential. This is true so long as the training process is balanced by giving attention to the physical, mental and spiritual realms equally.
‘The purpose of training is to tighten up the slack, toughen the body, and polish the spirit.’ Morihei Ueshiba
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