In Japanese martial arts, there is a concept called “Suigetsu", which is greatly valued by many martial artists. "Suigetsu" literally means “water" and “moon”. How does this relate to combat?
The origin of "Suigetsu" is a poem written by Tsukahara Bokuden, the master swordsman, about 500 years ago:
「映るとも月も思はず映すとも水も思はぬ広沢の池」
The meaning of the poem is, "The moon does not intend to reflect itself in the water; it just does. The water does not intend to reflect the moon; it just does.”
The term "Suigetsu" refers to this relationship and way of existence between the water and the moon.
"Suigetsu" is used in many schools of swordsmanship. The middle stance of “Seigan” is sometimes referred to as the "Suigetsu" stance. Also, the distance where the sword just reaches and hits when one step is taken, known as "Issoku Itto no Maai" (one-foot, one-sword distance), is also sometimes called the "position of Suigetsu”.
This distance is perceived as a line that cannot be walked back once crossed. In a sword duel, stepping beyond that line implies accepting death.
Referring back to the earlier poem, the water represents oneself, and the moon represents the opponent.
"The opponent does not intend to cut me; they just stand there. I do not intend to cut the opponent; I just stand there”.
However, as both approach each other and reach that distance, if one's training is immature, turmoil arises in the mind. Who will move first? How will the move? Will I win? Will I lose? Anger, fear, surprise, doubt, and confusion may assail you.
Comparing this turmoil to the water in a pond, the water surface becomes disturbed and wavy, and in such a state, it cannot accurately reflect the moon. Due to the turmoil, you become unable to see your opponent clearly.
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