SENSEI
Those who made the road before
The most common title, and the word most likely taught to a new student is SENSEI. Although it is commonly translated as "teacher," which its meaning is used when referring to someone of considerable skill and time-in-grade other than yourself. The true definition is far reaching and deserves careful consideration by both student and teacher alike.
The word Sensei is made up of two syllables. The first, sen, is
defined as: (1) previous, (2) ahead of, or (3) before. The second,
sei, and means: (1) to give birth to, or (2) life.
Thus, when the two are combined, we get a definition of Sensei as
"one who has gone before (you)," or "previously born." One of the
tangible feelings of this word is that of wisdom and respect.
Interestingly enough, a practitioner who has decades of time in the
arts, yet has no students, is still called Sensei. Also, when using
the word in conjunction with a person's last name be sure to put
Sensei last, as in Smith Sensei or Miyagi Sensei. To put it in front
of the last name as in Sensei Smith, are both linguistically
incorrect and sounds awkward to the Japanese ear.
This page is an attempt to bring together those who have traveled the path of martial arts. I want to honor and preserve their memory and contributions to the martial arts. If followed properly I might be able to form a family tree for each Sensei. I welcome any and all provable corrections or mistakes, and above all, my intention is to set forth legitimate truthful facts.
I have listed those who I know personally, have the greatest respect for, and know them to be honorable persons. Each Sensei will have their own family tree in their particular page. If you feel you belong in a certain page, give proper documentation, I will add your history to your sensei's page. If you know a particular Sensei to warrant their own heading feel free to submit that information. This information should follow the matrix (see: example below).
EXAMPLE BIOGRAPHY AS TO SUBMIT FOR ADDITION
~HGS