What is Ai Ki Do
The meaning of each character
AI
Harmony, unification, coming together. It signifies being in accord with the world around you and with your partner.
KI
Energy, spirit, inner strength. The life energy that flows through all living things.
DO
Path, way. A lifelong path of personal growth and self-improvement.
Aikido therefore means "The way of harmony with inner energy". It is a Japanese martial art based on the principle of non-resistance and redirection of the attacker's force.
Aikido was created by Morihei Ueshiba (1883–1969), known as O-sensei (Great Teacher). He drew from traditional Japanese martial arts, primarily Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu, and combined them with his spiritual philosophy.
Unlike many other martial arts, aikido does not seek to destroy the opponent. The goal is to control the situation so that no one is harmed – neither the defender nor the attacker.