What makes a Master?

[skribs]

I could've sworn there was a recent discussion on this topic, but the most recent version of this thread I could find was back in 2006. That thread is old enough to be an adult today. I thought I'd revive this question for current members.

What makes a Master? More specifically: what makes a good one? (Or Professor, Sensei, Sifu, Level 5 Wizard Extraordinaire, whatever it is in your art).

I know the simple answer is based on being Black Belt, or 4th or 5th degree and/or completing some class. But what does it really mean? What is it that separates the honorary title from the normal coach or instructor? What is it that separates a good honored teacher from a mediocre or a bad one?

I may or may not have an essay due in the intermediate future that's prompting this question.

 

[Kung Fu Wang]

What makes a Master?

Someone can

- fight.
- teach his/her students how to fight.

These requirements eliminate those who:

- can fight, but doesn't know how to teach.
- knows how to teach but is not a fighter himself/herself.

 

[HighKick]

I could've sworn there was a recent discussion on this topic, but the most recent version of this thread I could find was back in 2006. That thread is old enough to be an adult today. I thought I'd revive this question for current members.

What makes a Master? More specifically: what makes a good one? (Or Professor, Sensei, Sifu, Level 5 Wizard Extraordinaire, whatever it is in your art).

I know the simple answer is based on being Black Belt, or 4th or 5th degree and/or completing some class. But what does it really mean? What is it that separates the honorary title from the normal coach or instructor? What is it that separates a good honored teacher from a mediocre or a bad one?

I may or may not have an essay due in the intermediate future that's prompting this question.

For me, it is someone who has a deep, deep knowledge in a specific field AND enough real-world, hands-on experience to apply this knowledge in a tangible way. It is a plus if they can effectively teach their knowledge to someone else.
Not all masters teach.

Yes, I believe this takes decades for nearly everyone.