The word "Tokuhon" (読本) literally translates from Japanese as "reader" or "textbook." In the context of Shorinji Kempo, the Tokuhon is the official, authorized textbook published by the World Shorinji Kempo Organization (WSKO). It is the definitive guide for all ranks, from white-belt beginners (Mudansha) to advanced black-belt instructors (Yudansha).
If you are a practitioner:
The Shorinji Kempo Tokuhon is the primary textbook and study guide used by kenshi (practitioners) of Shorinji Kempo worldwide. This manual serves as a definitive resource, bridging the gap between the physical techniques of the martial art and the foundational philosophy established by its founder, Doshin So. Core Contents of the Shorinji Kempo Tokuhon
The Tokuhon is structured to support a practitioner's journey from beginner (kyu) to advanced (dan) ranks, covering both the technical and philosophical pillars of the art.
Philosophical Foundations: It outlines the core principles of Kongo Zen, including Ken Zen Ichinyo (unity of body and mind) and Riki Ai Funi (strength and love in harmony).
Historical Context: The manual details the history of Shorinji Kempo, including its founding in 1947 and the mission to develop individuals who can contribute to a peaceful society.
Technical Syllabus: It provides descriptions and terminology for over 600 techniques. Goho (Hard Methods): Strikes, kicks, and blocks. Juho (Soft Methods): Throws, pins, and joint locks. shorinji kempo tokuhon pdf top
Seiho (Correcting Methods): Acupressure and body alignment techniques.
Etiquette and Dojo Manners: Instruction on zazen (seated meditation), kiai, and proper conduct within the training hall. Accessing Shorinji Kempo Manuals (PDF)
While the official Tokuhon is typically available to registered members through the World Shorinji Kempo Organization (WSKO), several official curriculum guides and related instructional materials are available online for public reference: SHORINJI KEMPO VALUE-LEVEL-UP GUIDELINE - 少林寺拳法
The Shorinji Kempo Tokuhon is the primary textbook used by practitioners (Kenshi) to study the philosophy and technical foundations of the art, covering all essential knowledge required for grading up to the black belt level. Core Philosophical Content
The Tokuhon emphasizes that Shorinji Kempo is a discipline (Gyo) aimed at developing individuals who can contribute to a peaceful society. Key concepts include:
Ken Zen Ichinyo: The unity of body and mind; training both is essential for true development. The short answer: No
Riki Ai Funi: Strength and love in harmony; power should be used with compassion. Shushu Koju: Defense comes before offense.
Fusatsu Katsujin: The principle of "not to kill but to awaken," focusing on self-defense that does not permanently harm the attacker. Technical Structure
The text outlines a syllabus of over 600 techniques, primarily categorized into two families:
Gōhō (Hard Methods): Includes strikes, kicks, and blocks (e.g., uchizuki, keri).
Jūhō (Soft Methods): Focuses on escapes, locks, and throws (e.g., kote nuki, ryu nage).
Seihō (Healing Methods): Techniques for body correction and acupressure massage. Typical Chapter Breakdown the Tokuhon is the official
A standard version of the textbook or its associated guidelines typically follows this structure: SHORINJI KEMPO VALUE-LEVEL-UP GUIDELINE - 少林寺拳法
It covers the definition, structure, and philosophical importance of the text.
The short answer: No.
The WSKO sells the physical Tokuhon to fund the preservation and spread of Shorinji Kempo. Releasing a completely free, high-resolution PDF would undermine the organization's ability to maintain temples, train instructors, and support headquarters.
The Tokuhon emphasizes that technique without spirit is empty. Core principles include: