To injure an opponent is to injure yourself. To control aggression without inflicting injury in the Art of Peace

To injure an opponent is to injure yourself. To control aggression without inflicting injury in the Art of Peace

Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido, believed in the principle of non-violence and harmony in martial arts. He emphasized the importance of controlling aggression and resolving conflicts without causing harm to others. In his teachings, Ueshiba often spoke about the concept of "To injure an opponent is to injure yourself. To control aggression without inflicting injury in the Art of Peace."

This principle reflects Ueshiba's belief that violence and aggression only lead to more suffering and harm, not just for the opponent but also for oneself. By inflicting injury on others, one is also causing harm to their own spirit and well-being. Ueshiba believed that true strength lies in being able to control one's aggression and respond to conflict with compassion and understanding.

In Aikido, practitioners are taught to redirect an opponent's energy and use it to neutralize the attack, rather than meeting force with force. This approach not only allows for self-defense without causing harm, but also promotes a sense of unity and harmony between individuals. By practicing Aikido, students learn to cultivate a peaceful mindset and develop the ability to resolve conflicts in a non-violent manner.

Ueshiba's teachings on controlling aggression without inflicting injury are deeply rooted in the philosophy of the Art of Peace. He believed that true mastery of martial arts is not about defeating an opponent, but about finding a peaceful resolution to conflict. By embodying the principles of harmony and non-violence, practitioners of Aikido strive to create a more peaceful and compassionate world.