The Sensei-Senpai Relationship
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Basically, Mr Miyagi/Daniel LaRusso.
It’s a nice notion but the article’s definitions are far too idealised much akin to describing the perfect father and son relationship: vanishingly rare.
It’s a nice notion but the article’s definitions are far too idealised much akin to describing the perfect father and son relationship: vanishingly rare.
The sensei / senpai or senpai / kohai relationships are more in tune with the traditional karate dojo, where so much more is taught than just how to punch and kick and block. It is not commonly seen in the West to the best of my knowledge.
Even though our dojo is more traditional than most (I believe), we also do not cleave tightly to that model of mentorship. More is done by example than by specific training in the ways other than the art itself.
Even though our dojo is more traditional than most (I believe), we also do not cleave tightly to that model of mentorship. More is done by example than by specific training in the ways other than the art itself.
It is the basis for the deshi form of studentship, which as you say is quite rare these days. It implies a discipleship which not many find desirable anymore. Even the term disciple can have strong negative connotations in the West.
isshinryuronin
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Not at all. Daniel did not have any senpai duties or kohai to guide. He was more of a denshi.
Many things relating to personal relationships are idealized. I thought the article's representations were pretty accurate. To sum up the core role of the TMA senpai:
Act at a bridge between the sensei and rest of the students.
Act as an example of proper dojo behavior and customs.
Encourage dojo cohesiveness and morale.
Assist in teaching lower belts.
Handle minor problems concerning students.
In other words, if the sensei is an army officer, the senpai is the sergeant. IMO, this model can be applied in not only strict traditional dojo, but less formally structured ones as well. While based on seniority, it is a position that is (should be) naturally assumed by the advanced student out of a sense of responsibility to his dojo. When the school is simply a business or exercise gym this mindset is less apt to evolve.
Of course, all the above is dependent on the sensei's vision.
Historically, it is the opposite (if I'm understanding your context). Senpai only exist in a dojo with multiple students. Before this time there was only master/denshi relationship. It's more correct to say the denshi was the basis for the senpai.
True. But not extinct by any means.
Waxing Miyagi’s car? Sanding that decking? Painting that fence?
Do you mean ‘deshi’? Denshi = electron
isshinryuronin
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Yes. (dumb mistake)
It’s okay…it’s not your (my) language. I thought I was missing something!Yes. (dumb mistake)
isshinryuronin
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I've never actually used the word deshi before, or heard others use it, and never wrote it. I've studied "den-" words referring to electric train, electrical engineer, telephone and microwave (denshi-renji), so that's what was in my head. I had 3 semesters of Japanese years ago. Used to know about 200 kanji and most basic grammar. Now have only very rudimentary, basic, semi-conversational skill.
I don't understand "monji" in this context. Is there a prefix or can you provide a translation?
It’s hard to give a concise complete definition but a teacher will make you their ‘special student’ or monji. You are taken under their wing, given special teachings perhaps, accompany them to special seminars etc. They in return will vouch for your training and indeed character, nurture your training a little more closely than the average dojo member.
FWIW, I've heard the term "deshi" a lot in aikido, with the distinction between uchideshi (inner disciple, who lives with the master and supposedly receives more authentic instruction) and sotodeshi (outer disciple). And some Japanese MA have a truckload of concepts that underpin their transmission system, like "den", "iemoto", "soke" vs "shihanke", "shuhari", without delving into stuff that's art-specific or cosmetic (we have a lot of them).
Never heard of monji, though.
Never heard of monji, though.
I've heard the person who accompanies the teacher as assistant (e.g. in travels abroad) referred to as "otomo".
