Migami (also known as the MIZU-GAMI) - THE SYMBOL OF ISSHIN-RYU

The traditional symbol of Isshin-ryu karate is the Migami. It was created as the result of a dream which Master Shimabuku had. The emblem is very complex in meaning and represents several aspects of Isshin-ruy karate.

1. MIGAMI REPRESENTS:

the Shinto Water Goddess from which the patch name originates.

the strength and power available thorugh Karate (shown through the clenched right hand and the serpentine lower half).

the peaceful nature of the Karate-ka (shown throught the open left hand and human upper half).

Master Shimabuku as the protective mother and guardian of Isshin-ryu (the ascending dragon).

                2. THE TURBULENT WATER REPRESENTS:

the trials and tribulations of the Karate-ka.

the purity, strength, and goodness of the Karate-ka.

                3. THE GREY SKY REPRESENTS:

the trials and triulations of the Karate-ka.

serenity, and implies that Karate is to be used only in a defensive manner.

                4. THE ASCENDING DRAGON REPRESENTS:

good luck

Tatsuo (which means DRAGON BOY)

Isshin-ryu, the offspring of the Mizu-Gami (Master Shimabuku)

the enlightenment that we all seek through the knowledge and practice of Isshin-ryu.

                5. THE 3 STARS REPRESENTS:

the birth of Isshin-ryu: Shorin-ryu (the mother spiritual) on the left, Goju-ryu (the father physical) on the right, and Isshin-ryu (the child mental) in the center.

the 3 instructors of Master Shimabuku: KYAN, MIYAGI, and MOTUBU.

good, better, and best.

6. THE JAPANESE CHARACTERS CAN BE TRANSLATED TO:

Isshin-ryu Karate.

One Heart Way of the Empty Hand.

Concentration.

7. THE ORANGE BORDER REPRESENTS:

the flame that surrounded Master Shimabuku in his dream.

fire, signifying evil and impurity that can be overcome by Isshin-ryu karate.

                8. THE OVAL SHAPE REPRESENTS:

the vertical fist of Isshin-ryu karate.

the wholeness of the complete Martial Art.