Karate creed

This is the Karate Creed.

It is a solemn promise that you will never attack

or use karate against someone unless it is absolutely necessary.

You must be able to recite it from memory

by your first brown belt grading.

I come to you with Karate,

I have no weapons,

Should I be forced to defend myself,

As a matter of right or wrong,

My honour or my principles,

My God or my country,

Here are my weapons,

My empty hands.