The seven tenants are traits necessary to successfully learn Tang Soo Do. The five codes are taken from Soo Bahk Do, which is the formal name of Tang Soo Do. The codes were written in Korea during the sixth century. A small group of warriors united the three kingdoms of Korea against great odds, by applying the techniques of Soo Bahk Do and adhering to the five codes of honor. Although we have updated some of the meanings of the codes, they all have merit and are repeated by the students.
Today, the definition of "no retreat in battle" applies to personal battles. Personal battles can be getting good grades in school for youth students, or commiting to a training schedule for adults. The definition is more about self-discipline and self-control than it is about no retreat on the battlefield.
"In fighting choose with sense and honor" Tang Soo Do does not promote violence. We are a defensive art that should only be used if absolutely necessary. Students are not permitted to use Tang Soo Do in an aggressive manner. Students who use their techniques unnecessarily, will lose their training privileges. It is well known in martial art cultures that only the greatest martial artists can win a confrontation without fighting.
In Asian cultures, bowing is a way of saying hello, goodbye, and thank you. It is also equivalent to a handshake in American culture. In the martial arts, bowing teaches the student the respect and humility necessary to use their martial arts skills responsibly.
Bowing in the martial arts:
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