Martial arts as spirit, an alchemy of one
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Martial arts and alchemy, the ancient basis for much of modern science, are two sides of the same coin. With these two disciplines, all that is understood by so many is what could be called the “inherent surface value”. Most of us would define alchemy as the process by which, it was once believed, base metals could be turned into gold. Martial arts, meanwhile, is often simply defined as a myriad of systems of fighting. While both of these definitions are technically accurate, they are far too narrow, missing the point entirely. Often, though perhaps unintentionally, such simplistic conclusions are usually reached out of ignorance or even fear.
If one digs beneath the dictionary definition of alchemy, they will find that, for alchemists, the transmutation of base metals into gold was of rather minor importance. Overall, alchemists were multi-talented mystics who were concerned with unlocking the mysteries of the universe, both physical and spiritual, and who sought to transmute reality itself, so that we might have a more profound understanding of all things. A prime example of this practice, including its rewards and repercussions, can be found in the enigmatic narrative of the great John Dee, the English magician who made it his life’s work to find the Philosopher’s Stone.
Do you think its any coincidence, for example, that boxing is called “the sweet science”? Do you believe it to be a mere throw of the dice that the great Bruce Lee, the founder of Jeet Kune Do, was also a philosopher and a poet? Far from it. Bruce Lee and those like him, whatever form of martial arts they practiced, were and are alchemists in the truest sense of the word.
Those who are true to the spirit of martial arts are not simply concerned with violence, nor do they seek proof of their own “power” by intimidating others. While it is true that martial artists are practicing systems of fighting and self-defense, this is merely a means to attain a greater understanding of the mysteries that are within. Like alchemy, martial arts is about transmutation, specifically transmutation of the entire self — mind, body, and spirit — into something greater and more profound in nature. Yet, these noble experiments of the self cannot be taken lightly. While it is believed that John Dee was able to reach the heights of communicating with angels, even deciphering a new language from them, so too did he become careless, descending into madness. If the martial artist should lose sight of the fact that he or she is always to remain a humble student, then the pain that follows will be great indeed.
A man should not embark upon the path to enlightenment unless he is as prepared to seek it as a man whose hair is on fire seeks water.
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The great Hermetic or alchemical traditions of history must be approached with the same rigor as any martial art — and I have heard that exact phrase from others far wiser than I. There is no room for flippancy in dealing with the divine. To illustrate this idea more clearly, I paraphrase the words of a great teacher of mine who was himself quoting an ancient Buddhist sage. He said that a man should not embark upon the path to enlightenment unless he is as prepared to seek it as a man whose hair is on fire seeks water. To truly open the door to the unnameable realm of mystic reality means that it will never be closed again. It is both beautiful and terrifying; wondrous and maddening. Just as you gain, so shall you sacrifice; just as you hurt, so shall you heal — and the cycle repeats.
Martial arts itself is not any different. Those true to its essence are both gentle and determined: They are seekers who know what it means to truly succeed — and to truly hurt. Just as the whirling Sufi Dervish meditates in a state of perpetual motion, seeking to be “burned” by the flame of God, so too does the martial artist with every step. I know this because I can speak from my experience. I am by no means a master, nor will I ever be; as I said, a true martial artist is always a student, nothing more. To draw on the wisdom of Socrates: The one who claims mastery has simply admitted that they know nothing at all.
Even as a mere student, however, I can attest to the fact that in those moments when I am practicing, when I am sparring, there is nothing else. In that space I have no past and no future; I have only the moment. And in that moment — that eternal moment — sometimes I am fortunate enough to become the I within the I: The disciple who breathes life into that glowing ember of the divine light within, hoping that it might be brought one step closer to life.
Martial arts is the alchemy of the entire human being. Indeed, this same principle can in fact be applied to any sort of physical discipline, be it running, swimming, weightlifting, or even football, so long as it is approached as a means of true personal growth. Those who embark upon the Path will stumble; they will falter. Ultimately, though, this only helps to demonstrate the inescapable truth that the highest goal of the martial artist is not victory over one’s opponent, but victory over oneself.
Adapted from an entry on The New House of Wisdom
Photo: Abode of Chaos/Flickr
Awesome!
What I love in martial arts is this unique combination of body and mind! Truly holistic sport!
Cheers
Jason
This is a beautiful article describing one of the greatest miracles available to humanity: transmutation of the spirit through martial arts, meditation, or other magical endeavors.
Martial Arts help to integrate the etheric body—the energy infrastructure of the body, aka chakras or acupuncture meridians—making that kind of transmutation possible. Great work Spencer!