The meaning of the word "Karate" is empty hand, which signifies the use of no weapons. Karate is a science and philosophy of fighting which has developed over the centuries in the Orient and is now popular the world over. The ultimate purpose of Karate is to develop the better features of human character rather than to strengthen the body against physical enemies -- Karate is the training of mind over body.

Karate has its roots deep in the various systems of combat that developed in the Orient. The origin of each of the many systems and their influence upon Karate is difficult to understand due to the lack of accurate records. According to one of the legends, Bodirama Daruma was training for the priesthood. He studied the tenants of the Zen Sect of Buddhism. He traveled to China to spread the ideas of his Sect. This period was approximately 500 A.D.. Along with the legend, it is said that Daruma became connected with Kempo (a form of Chinese Karate), because his disciples had become weakened both mentally and physically due to the severe austerity of the period. He decided that the students were so overcome with the demands of the body that they were unable to comprehend the ideas of the mind-body doctrine. It was the contention that if the body were in condition, the mind would then be released from worry and would be able to devote more concentration upon the ideas of Zen. He proceeded to give the students a doctrine so they could train their minds and bodies and thus attain higher perception. This form of exercise was known as "Ekikinkyo" and became the foundation of Chinese Kempo.

From China, Karate was transported to the island of Okinawa and was blended into the existing Okinawan form of "Kumaii-Jutsu". The result of this union became one of the most deadly fighting arts. Since the people of Okinawa were not able to bear arms, they learned this art in order to protect themselves. Working constantly, they produced a very high form of attack. Today in museums in Okinawa, the results of their efforts may still be seen. There are many examples of ancient armor that still bear the marks of a human fist where it crushed into the plating and destroyed the wearer.

About 1916, a master of the art named Gichin Funakoshi went to Japan to give an exhibition of his art. He so astounded the audience with the power and skill at his command that he was invited to teach in Japan. He moved to Japan a few years later and began teaching the art of Karate. Through his efforts, the art flourished and grew in Japan. Funakoshi-Sensei is known as the Father of Japanese Karate.