|
The Senjo Ceremony
In the center of a perfect circle, which represents kama, is the position of Shogun which in turn represents fortitude... Intersecting this point are two lines at perpendicular angles to each other. this signifies the enclosing aspect of that associated with the female; (Round Cross - Ishoa - intuition and sensitivity). these lines connect the Shogun to the circle and the power contained therein. Surrounding the circle are four lines in a protective (Square cross - Bushido - the way of the warrior). These are the Kyunnin (Administrators) Another two lines crossed inside the circle, (although rotated 45 degrees from the original two), also connect the Shogun to the circle. These eight points on the circle (held by "Retainers) represent the ideal qualities of a Martial Artist. They are: Honour, Loyalty, Trust and Sincerity, Benevolence, Self-control, Etiquette, courage and Justice. the also include the basic directions of defensive and offensive strategy. Inside the circle, but not touching it, is an equilateral triangle with the Shogun's most protective warriors at its points. At the apex sits the Hatamoto (most trusted) behind the Shogun. Yakuza (Yin, physical, evil) sits the shogun's right and Yamabushi (Yang, Spiritual, Good) to his left. On the side of the triangle to the left and right sit the shogun's two main Daimyo (clan Leaders), with the one on the right being the immediate heir to the position of Shogun. Looking at the Senjo on a broader scale, you will see the full structure. At the bottom of the page, the lower ranked Black Belts, seated in horizontal lines, are known as Kengo (Emerging Warriors). there are three stages of Kengo experiencing the "physical" level. They work their way towards the front line, facing the Shogun and are known as Metsumiedans (League Of Blood). To the top of the page are middle ranked Black Belts known as Monjins (Disciples). The Monjin has passed through the physical, crossed the gap and will now experience the three stages of the "physiological" level. an understanding of the Physical/Psychological level will move the Monjin (after the 4th degree examination into the "Spiritual" level. The first of the seven bows will see the Kengo and the Metsumiedans about the face (in their seated positions known as seiza or seizzen, to acknowledge the presence of all brown belts at the bottom of the Senjo. these are the students who have successfully completed their Black Belt grading earlier. These Browns will traditionally remove their belts and respectfully tie their newly acquired Black Belts around their waists. At this point, the shogun and all warriors; except those carrying Samurai Swords, will bow their heads to the floor to officially welcome these new warriors to the Senjo. as the Kengo return upright, the resume their position facing the Shogun, while the new Blacks sit down in seiza. A command by the shogun, in Japanese, translated as "Everyone, take notice an learn from Battlefield Strategy", initiates a second bow and officially opens the Senjo. during this bow all warriors on the Kyunnin square half draw their swords whilst seated. The eight points on the circle kneel and half draw, the three points on the triangle stand and half draw, all emphasizing the protection of the Shogun while he is in this bowed position. during the third bow, which is an acknowledge of the Shogun by the number on Daimya, the Shogun remains upright while everyone bows, except the circle and triangle points. The fourth bow is to the shogun's right-hand man, as he stays in a seated position while everyone else bows. The fifth bow is to the second in charge Daimyo, with him remaining seated during the bow in. The seventh and final bow, Zennin Note Lei, translates as: each of us are students of one another and that each of us is our own Shogun. Next, a "Martial Arts Marathon" is the ultimate test of personal expertise and stamina. Each practitioner will punch and kick till complete exhaustion, attempting to elevate himself out of the confines of the physical level. this freedom of thought clears his mind and prepares him to bridge the gap to become a Monjin. The top three winners will receive a gold, silver and bronze medallion respectively. A separate trophy will be awarded to the most prolific kicker. Warriors successful in achieving this 2nd dan level sit
in front of the Kengo and are known as Metsumiedans (League of Blood).
Here, they wait to be named Sandan-Ho (Probationary 3rd dan), which means
they pass through the gap to sit on the back line of the Monjins, behind
the Shogun, and again, work their way forward. |
