Circles of Influence, Part One: What's in a name?

Titles in martial arts carry weight. Some people hold them dearly, others barely think about them, yet they shape the way we relate to one another on the mat. Recently I’ve noticed a renewed emphasis on the honorifics Sensei and Shihan, which prompted me to reflect on what these titles actually mean — not just linguistically, but culturally, symbolically, and within the lived experience of our aikido community.

This article explores the meanings behind some of the names and terms we use in Shin Gi Tai and the wider aikido world. It is not an academic study, but a personal attempt to understand the language that frames our practice and the influence these roles carry.

For context, I refer to general Japanese translations provided by Google Translate and, in some cases, Co‑Pilot for generating the relevant kanji. For those with deeper knowledge of Japanese language and writing, I welcome any corrections or refinements.

I begin with my association name: Shin Gi Tai — 心・技・体 (Shin • Gi • Tai).

In its most essential form, it translates as:

心 (Shin) — mind, spirit, heart

技 (Gi) — technique, skill

体 (Tai) — body

The broader definition refers to the unity and balance of mind/spirit, technique, and body. This is then followed by the meaning of “Association” (心技体).

My understanding of the translation of “Association” includes:

協 (kyō) — cooperation, mutual

会 (kai) — meeting, association, society

Co‑Pilot offers a definition I particularly like: shared standards; mutual support; collective identity and cooperation between clubs and instructors. It reflects a well‑considered practice that shapes the dynamic, flowing aikido we study. It is a symbol worth rallying around.

Traditionally, the Shin Gi Tai kanji is written vertically:

心

技

体

心

技

体

Again, these translations rely on Google Translate and Co‑Pilot, so I acknowledge that nuances may be missing. Still, I feel the essence of the association name is captured. It embodies the principles and ideals that explain why I follow Soke Gwynne Jones.

The next term to explore is Aikido.

I was taught that Aikido consists of three elements — Spirit (Ai), Harmony (Ki), and Way (Dō). 合気道 (Ai‑Ki‑Dō).

Applying the same approach as before, the kanji reveal further depth:

合 (Ai) — harmony, union, joining

気 (Ki) — spirit, energy, life force

道 (Dō) — way, path, discipline

The Way of Harmonising Energy is the phrase that resonates most with me. It captures the essence of the budo art I am passionate about. I won’t go too deeply into the many interpretations of “Aikido,” as they vary widely and often come down to personal preference. I invite you to explore your own understanding and share it with me.

The next terms are widely recognised across the martial arts community. Within Shin Gi Tai, we are fortunate to have a high standard of instructors, where Sensei (先生) is the most commonly used honorific. The term breaks down as:

先 (Sen) — before, ahead

生 (Sei) — life, born

In martial arts, a Sensei is someone with recognised experience, responsible for guiding students both technically and personally. It is a simple and precise definition. I use “Sensei” as a term of respect regardless of rank. I recognise that this may feel informal to those of higher grade, but my intention is always respect.

Next is Shihan (師範).

師 (Shi) — master, expert teacher

範 (Han) — model, example, standard

The definition is: an exemplary teacher, someone recognised as a highly experienced instructor; a custodian of the art; a model for others to follow.

The next term is one that brings me joy and affection, as it refers to the only person I have ever addressed this way — Soke (宗家). Soke consists of two kanji:

宗 (Sō) — main tradition, lineage, sect, origin

家 (Ke) — house, family, lineage

The literal meaning is “Head of the Family,” or in martial arts, “Founding Lineage.” In traditional Japanese arts, Soke refers to the inheritor or headmaster of a school or lineage — the principal authority, the keeper of teachings and traditions, and often the hereditary or formally recognised successor. The title is used not only in martial arts but also in tea ceremony, calligraphy, and other cultural disciplines.

For me, Soke Gwynne Jones has been — and remains — a guiding light in my aikido journey. I follow his teachings and his dynamic style. I even watch the films and programmes he references, because they form part of our shared conversations and deepen our connection. His leadership influences how I approach adversity, learning, and the complexities of power and responsibility.

The distinction between Sensei, Shihan, and Soke is simple. A Sensei (先生) is a teacher or instructor. A Shihan (師範) is a senior instructor and model of the art. A Soke (宗家) is the head of the association.

Understanding these titles is not about hierarchy for its own sake, nor about elevating individuals above others. It is about recognising the circles of influence that shape our training, our culture, and our relationships on and off the mat. Titles carry meaning because people carry meaning. They remind us that aikido is not only a physical discipline but a living tradition shaped by those who teach, guide, and inspire us. When we understand the weight of these roles, we also understand the responsibility we each hold — to contribute to an environment where learning, respect, and harmony can genuinely flourish.

Sensei Marc George is dojo lead at Ty Sign Aikido based in South Wales, UK.