Greek Shaolin Cultural Organization
少林希腊文化組织

中国武术双流
The Dual Streams of Wushu

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The rich tapestry of Chinese martial arts is woven with threads of tradition, discipline, and a profound understanding of combat. Within this intricate web, two distinct streams have emerged, shaped by the divergent contexts in which they were honed: military martial arts [Chin.: Jūnlǚ wǔshù 軍旅武術] and civilian martial arts [Chin.: Mínjiān wǔshù 民間武術]. Understanding the origins, evolution, and purposes of these two traditions sheds light on the intricate legacy that underpins the martial arts practiced today.

Military Martial Arts: Forged in Warfare

In the annals of Chinese martial history, military martial arts stand as a testament to the artistry of warfare. Developed for the battlefield, the emphasis was on skills crucial to the art of war—archery, horsemanship, formations, and mastery of an array of weapons, with special reverence given to the spear, hailed as the king of all weapons. This formidable tradition finds its documentation in the classic text New Book of Effective Discipline - Ji Xiao Xin Shu [Chin.: Jì xiào xīnshū 紀效新書], a definitive treatise on military arts written during the 1560s and 1580s by the Ming dynasty general Qi Jiguang [Chin.: Qī Jìguāng 戚繼光 | 1528 – 1588].

Empty hand fighting, while acknowledged, was relegated to an ancillary skill, serving as a foundation for fundamental training. The objective was clear: create warriors adept in both armed and unarmed combat, ready to face the challenges of the battlefield. Even today, echoes of this martial heritage resonate in the form of traditional martial arts that incorporate big spears and other military-inspired techniques.

Civilian Martial Arts: A Transition to Everyday Conflict

As the winds of change swept through China, retired military personnel sought to adapt their combat skills to a new context—civilian life. Civilian martial arts emerged as a response to the challenges of everyday conflicts, such as armed disputes between villages, gang wars, and the burgeoning bodyguard industry.

The emphasis shifted from military-centric weaponry to tools relevant in civilian settings, including farming implements and the wooden staff, affectionately referred to as the core of all weapons. Empty hand techniques gained prominence, recognizing the impracticality of carrying weapons at all times in civilian society.

The Transition to Traditional Martial Arts

The traditional martial arts that practitioners engage in today are direct descendants of civilian martial arts, which, in turn, trace their roots back to the military traditions. For example, the prominence of the big spear as a training tool in many martial arts schools highlights this lineage.

However, the landscape of traditional martial arts has evolved significantly over the past century. The original purposes for which these arts were conceived—warfare and civilian conflict—have largely dissipated. In their absence, martial arts have transformed into a multifaceted discipline, incorporating performance elements, philosophical teachings, and esoteric practices.

Superfluous Content and Repurposing Attempts

Over the years, traditional martial arts have seen the infusion of superfluous content, including elaborate performances, philosophical musings, and esoteric teachings. While these additions have undoubtedly enriched the cultural and spiritual dimensions of martial arts, they also underscore a departure from the practical combat focus of their origins.

Various attempts have been made to repurpose traditional martial arts, with varying degrees of success. Some have sought to elevate these practices into performing arts, showcasing their beauty and intricacy. Others have aimed to adapt traditional martial arts into avenues of physical fitness, self-discipline, and personal development.

Conclusion

The dual streams of Chinese martial arts, rooted in military and civilian traditions, provide a fascinating insight into the evolution of these ancient disciplines. While the original purposes have shifted, the essence of combat readiness and personal development endures. Traditional martial arts serve as a bridge connecting the past to the present, a testament to the enduring legacy of a martial heritage that continues to captivate and inspire practitioners worldwide.