Classes emphasize traditional practice and application (bunkai) of the techniques in the Muso Jikiden Eishin-ryu Iaijutsu, Battojutsu and Kenjitsu curriculum/ Traditional form of Samurai Swordsmanship. This curriculum encompasses the practice of waza/kata (solo techniques of which there are over 40), kumitachi (paired patterns using a wood sword or 'bokken'), and also Suemongiri also known as tameshigiri (test cutting using a live/sharp sword on rolled mats).
These three components serve to reinforce and improve the other to make the student of Iai-jutsu aware of proper body mechanics, focus, and technique for the effective use of the sword. All three of these, plus the integral observance and sincere practice of etiquette make up the core curriculum of our dojo.
We are sorry to inform of the passing this last year 2012, of two of our MJER grandmasters, Miura Takeyuki Hidefusa Hanshi whose dream was to spread Iaijutsu through the world, and Masayuki Shimabukuro Hanshi, who was in charged of this important task. These great men dedicated their lives on touching others people's hearts, from heart to heart to heart "Kokoro e Kokoro e Kokoro e".
Our group here in Aruba as others around the world are proof that they were successful in achieving their goals. We are honored to walk on their footsteps and keep their dream alive.
MJER Iaido/Iaijutsu is the Japanese martial art of swordsmanship which emphasizes drawing and cutting with the samurai sword in a single fluid motion. MJER is a 'koryu bujutsu' (which means 'traditional martial art') with a direct lineage back over 450 years to its founder, Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu.
Practicing Iaijutsu has multiple benefits. The practitioner will grow as an individual by broadening their mental and spiritual discipline. One object of Iaijutsu training is the building the mind an spirit of a warrior (Zanshin). This is accomplished through the constant training of the practitioner. One must learn to control his/her mind so that his/her mind is unaffected by the environmental influences that accompany our daily lives, this will give us peace of mind. In order to live life to the fullest, we must control of our minds, thoughts, and actions.
Iaijutsu practitioners accomplish this goal though constant focus and dedication to the concepts of Iaido in our daily lives.
"Saya no naka no katchi" / Attaining victory without drawing, cutting or killing an enemy or "winning while the sword is still in the scabbard"
Practicing a Samurai art is not enough, one must live according to the ideals of the Samurai and develop warrior spirit (budo no seishin), live and act positively, proactively and with compassion. One must train and have responsibility for ones family, community and country.