Interesting topic...
I agree with the last few posts. What about this:
I think a good general translation for budo is "the way of stopping aggression."
Now, if it is during times of peace it doesn't show a "militaristic" side as much as disciplined practice which can be used as character development and individual spiritual pursuit. However, during times of large scale warfare, budo then fulfills the need for military use.
Offensive and defensive are just descriptions of the moral aspect of our intent. As M. Ueshiba (and many other teachers) have said, "Attack and defense are the same thing." That was drilled into me when I was on active duty in the Marine Corps. "The best defense is a good offense."
It's all the same thing and just energy. It is paradoxical, of course. It is our intent,needs, and decisions that give the principles the form they take at any given time. Softness and hardness are there at all times, it takes as much wisdom as we can develop to make the right choices. It is our responsibility.
Thanks,
[Edited by Chuck Clark on July 3, 2000 at 09:14am]
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