What is a Sempai. The simple meaning is to understand the definition. Sempai translates as "Senior" and can be applied in any situation where someone is senior to you. The Japanese term is used in school, business, the arts, and of course the martial ways. But the meaning for those in a traditionally run martial art group is far deeper than simply "Senior."
The history of Sempai tradition is long. The position has existed in the Japanese Samurai tradition and Okinawan Warrior society since warrior groups began. Originally Sempai was the most senior warrior in the group, under the group's commander or leader. His responsibility has always been awesome and harder than anyone else in the group. He was responsible for the development and direction of the lower warriors, and for the protection of the leader. No other position in a warrior group had these responsibilities. In the Japanese martial arts, the position remains the same.
In ancient times being Sempai meant you were personally responsible for the training of your Kohai (juniors). Upon review by Sensei, all Kohai must measure up to Sensei's standards or Sempai was directly to blame. Sempai was personally responsible for Kohai etiquette. This was most important. Any breaches in etiquette in the dojo were reprimanded by Sempai, not Sensei. If Sensei had to make the correction, it simply meant Sempai was not doing his job. If either of these situations happened more than a few times, Sempai was replaced with someone who could accomplish the duties assigned.
It was Sempai's responsibility to immediately correct any breach in etiquette toward Sensei, stop any threat toward Sensei, correct technical insufficiencies of the Kohai, and dominate in training. Those who could not fulfill these responsibilities were removed.
Today, the dojo Sempai is still tasked with the responsibility of correcting the Kohai on matters of technique and etiquette. The position of Sempai in a traditional Karate Dojo is one of great responsibility. Most generaly the Sempai is the best student in the dojo. The sempai maintains the relationship between Sensei and students, and he sets and maintains the attitude in the dojo.
The history of Sempai tradition is long. The position has existed in the Japanese Samurai tradition and Okinawan Warrior society since warrior groups began. Originally Sempai was the most senior warrior in the group, under the group's commander or leader. His responsibility has always been awesome and harder than anyone else in the group. He was responsible for the development and direction of the lower warriors, and for the protection of the leader. No other position in a warrior group had these responsibilities. In the Japanese martial arts, the position remains the same.
In ancient times being Sempai meant you were personally responsible for the training of your Kohai (juniors). Upon review by Sensei, all Kohai must measure up to Sensei's standards or Sempai was directly to blame. Sempai was personally responsible for Kohai etiquette. This was most important. Any breaches in etiquette in the dojo were reprimanded by Sempai, not Sensei. If Sensei had to make the correction, it simply meant Sempai was not doing his job. If either of these situations happened more than a few times, Sempai was replaced with someone who could accomplish the duties assigned.
It was Sempai's responsibility to immediately correct any breach in etiquette toward Sensei, stop any threat toward Sensei, correct technical insufficiencies of the Kohai, and dominate in training. Those who could not fulfill these responsibilities were removed.
Today, the dojo Sempai is still tasked with the responsibility of correcting the Kohai on matters of technique and etiquette. The position of Sempai in a traditional Karate Dojo is one of great responsibility. Most generaly the Sempai is the best student in the dojo. The sempai maintains the relationship between Sensei and students, and he sets and maintains the attitude in the dojo.
Traditionally the sempai is the one who commands the students. When he sees Sensei ready to start class he tells the students to line up. Sempai tells the students to Bow to Sensei. He smacks them on the back of the head when they are fooling around instead of training.
Some things to keep in mind if you are the Sempai:
Seniors are generally considered those members ranked Sankyu (Brown
belt) or higher, although, anyone of higher rank is a Sempai.
Being a Sempai is an important role within the Dojo. A Sempai is a
position of trust, honor, and responsibility.
Sempai should teach students how to bow, tie their obi, proper
etiquette, and assist the Sensei with instruction.
Sempai should ensure that the Dojo remains clean.
Sempai should always be encouraging and helpful and should never
criticize or tear down their Kohai (juniors).
Sempai should train frequently and harder than other students, thus
setting an example.
Sempai should have the class lined up properly and ready for training
when the Sensei steps onto the floor.
Sempai should be positive, kind, and display respect, thus showing
proper budo.
Sempai should maintain dojo discipline and correct violations of
etiquette or policy by taking one aside and instructing him gently
and with respect. Never embarrass anyone.
Always research any question that a Kohai asks. When unsure of the
correct answer a Sempai should never guess and should refer the
question to Sensei.
Sempai should learn the names of all students.
A sempai is an important part of any traditional dojo; you are there to assist Sensei, so that he may concentrate on teaching and not worry about small minor details. You are like the older brother. Remember that you were once a new student, how did you feel, how were you treated? You should take great care to assist those junior to yourself.
Excellent post indeed...........
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