07/20/2022
Tadashi Yamash*ta-Sensei, has dedicated over 60 years of his life to the practice Okinawan Karatedo and Kobudo.
A highly respected man in all circles of the martial arts, Yamash*ta-Sensei is sought after for karatedo and kobudo seminars from all over the world.
He currently retains the rank of 10th degree black belt in Okinawa Shorin-ryu Karatedo and 10th degree black belt in Zen Okinawa Kobudo. Sensei is also the President, Director and founder of the Yamash*ta International Budo Association which incorporates Yamash*ta Shorin-Ryu Karate, Yamash*ta-Matayoshi Kobudo and Sensei's Suikendo Fighting System.
07/08/2022
OKINAWAN DOJO ETIQUETTE
Over the past 20 years, the use of the word "Oss or Osu" has become common in many Karate Dojos. However, most people only understand this as some type of "Japanese Greeting", NOT understanding its historical reference in Okinawa.
The term "Oss" in Okinawa, is considered a militaristic term that was used in Japan. In Okinawa, this term may be considered derogatory and insulting (even if they do not acknowledged as so, out of politeness).
If you are training in Okinawan Karate-Do, using this term in Okinawa, to an Okinawan or in an Okinawan Karate dojo, should be avoided, as it's not appropriate.
An alternative expression you can used is "Hai" which basically is an affirmation of yes, a greeting, or understanding or acknowledgement and much more polite in the Okinawan setting. You can also use the Okinawan (Uchina Guchi) language "Hai sai"
~ Bill George
