The Philosophy of Wing Tsun

Ancient Chinese masters used the term 'living philosophy' to describe the art of Wing Tsun Kung-Fu.

Wing Tsun, at the highest level, teaches you to understand yourself and how to interact with other human beings. Combining the principles of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism, the practice of Wing Tsun is focused on enshrining its fundamental concepts in those who practice it. These philosophies include true appreciation of honor, loyalty, dignity and respect for other human beings, as well as control over ego, emotion and temper. A person will never master himself without these, or the art of Wing Tsun, as these two are synonymous.

Because this art has these unique characteristics this art is currenly referred to as 'the noble Wing Tsun'. Thus the final objective of Wing Tsun is the pupil's personal growth. In fact, 'Si-Fu' translates as 'Father-Teacher', signifying the role of the Master as he takes on the responsibility of his 'todai' (son). This is different than other martial art forms, like karate where the term sensei means teacher.

The three main features of Wing Tsun is Physical, Health and Spiritual. But unfortunately, to find a school that teaches all the three together is not easy. One can mimic aspects of a physical nature, but to enhance spiritual growth a true master is required. One of the most important teachings in Wing Tsun is that as a student's physical techniques develop, he/she also develops as a person.

It is not necessary for you to be Chinese in order to comprehend the Martial Arts; studying the teachings of previous and current masters of the system can lead to great understanding. You need to appreciate the history and the social background to it, for this to be possible. Thus, every part of the martial art that is ignored or changed before it is properly learnt undermines its foundations.

Take away your history if you take away your culture and etiquette. What are you learning, if you take away the history of the martial art? What you saw was just a series of moves which neither has any understanding nor any principles. This is not real martial art.

The necessity to learn Martial Art is basically no different from wanting to learn something else such humanities or law terminology. Hilaire Barnett was clear on this point in her book Constitutional and Administrative Law stating "to study the UK's constitution , it is necessary to gain an insight into the history, politics and political philosphy which underpin the constitution, it is an essential component without which the structure, law and policies of the state cannot be understood."