---
title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: Gichin Funakoshi (Karate-Do Kyohan)…"
description: "\"“Gichin Funakoshi (Karate-Do Kyohan) wrote, “The secret principle of martial arts is not vanquishing the attacker but resolving to avoid an encounter b..."
image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/b6b/iain-stuart-abernethy-197940_art_gichin-funakoshi-karate-do-kyohan-wrote_2180078.jpg"
---

#  Gichin Funakoshi (Karate-Do Kyohan) wrote, “The secret…

![“Gichin Funakoshi (Karate-Do Kyohan) wrote, “The secret principle of martial arts is not vanquishing the attacker but resolving to avoid an encounter before its occurrence. To become the object of an attack is an indication that there was an opening in one’s guard and the important thing is to be…” quote by Iain Stuart Abernethy](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/b6b/iain-stuart-abernethy-197940_art_gichin-funakoshi-karate-do-kyohan-wrote_2180078.jpg)   [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/b6b/iain-stuart-abernethy-197940_art_gichin-funakoshi-karate-do-kyohan-wrote_2180078.jpg) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/b6b/iain-stuart-abernethy-197940_art_gichin-funakoshi-karate-do-kyohan-wrote_2180078.jpg)

> ““Gichin Funakoshi (Karate-Do Kyohan) wrote, “The secret principle of martial arts is not vanquishing the attacker but resolving to avoid an encounter before its occurrence. To become the object of an attack is an indication that there was an opening in one’s guard and the important thing is to be on guard at all times.””

[Iain Stuart Abernethy](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/iain-stuart-abernethy/)

## About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Martial arts prioritize prevention over confrontation, keeping guard to avoid attacks.

**In simple terms:** Avoid fights by staying prepared.

Key Takeaway

Stay vigilant, avoid conflict.

Themes

martial arts prevention guard strategy

Mood

thoughtful calm

Type

principle instruction philosophical

When to use this quote

- self‑defence training
- personal safety
- risk management

Key Concepts

conflict avoidance self‑defense mindset

Questions to Reflect On

- How can you maintain constant guard without fatigue?
- What non‑physical ways can you prevent conflict?

A Different Perspective

Only works if opponent is rational; may not stop accidental harm.

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