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Is the study of martial art compatible with the Holy Scriptures? There are many who think not, some even believe that you should not fight back for any reason and that God will provide for all of your needs including defense. Should a Christian fight back?
- Some of the other concerns being why would you want to learn how to harm your fellow man?
- What about "Turning the other cheek"? What do the scriptures say about self defense?
- What if anything did Jesus say regarding self defense?
- What about bowing to idols, emptying the mind, chanting, or calling the instructor "Master"?
- Can studying a martial art enlighten ones spirit, Spirit?
- Do Zen and the bible take one to the same ultimate goal using different paths?
- How can a martial art be compatible with the bible?
These were some of the many questions that were asked of devoted Christian and now Seventh Degree Black Belt (Chinese Kenpo Karate) Herb Patus as he sought to begin his martial art career some decades ago.
For 35 years he researched and collected data on the subject until it became time for him to present his thesis to the Grand Master of his Kenpo organization in order to receive the Kenpo Fifth Degree Black Belt.
This thesis based on biblical principals support the Christian right to defend themselves and loved ones by any means including the taking of a life if necessary (what about "thou shall not kill?").
Yes, contends the thesis, self defense is compatible with the scriptures.
- Jesus himself complimented "a strong man armed".
- When Jesus sent out his disciples to preach gospel, he instructed them to take also a staff (a weapon of defense).
- In the Garden of Gethsemane where two of the disciples where armed with swords (the most powerful, deadliest weapon of that time), Peter drew his sword and cut off the ear of Malchus (the servant of the high priest).
This thesis contends that the study of a martial art is compatible with Gods word as long as the Christian does not stray from the perimeters of scripture.
- What is the difference between the many styles of martial arts?
- What to look for when choosing a school?
- What must I do to earn belts?
- How much should it cost?
- What kind of equipment must I have?
- How about a cold beer or glass of wine after a work out?
These questions and many more are addressed in "Karate and the Christian, The Parchments, A Fifth Degree Black Belt Thesis", by Master Instructor Herb Patus.
Because some have asked what qualifies Herb Patus to author such a composition, a brief memoir has been included! The memoir itself is a smooth read that offers life situations bound with philosophy that has lead and even convicted Master Patus to this thesis.
There is also a 4 hour 20 minute twin disc self defense DVD available that companions the thesis. The DVD displays 40 Kenpo self defense techniques (how to deal with common street attacks), 30 various basics (kicks, blocks punches and kick-punch combo's), as well as 2 Kenpo form sets (kata).
Herb Patus - Author.
Thuy Salhi - Editor.
Michael Roberts - Editor.
Jack Cavanavgh - Editor.
Victor Ochoa - Illustrator.
Barbara Steinburg - Photographer.
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