The Four Poisons of Kendo

There are four deep-rooted mental or intellectual problems to be overcome in kendo. They are: fear, doubt, surprise, and confusion. Collectively known as the "Four Poisons of Kendo".

The only way to overcome the poisons and to succeed in kendo is to follow the teaching, "overcome others by overcoming yourself". Kendo is a battle with these four poisons. By resolutely confronting these problems with many opponents, the student or the kendoka, will attain a calmness of mind in which every situation is perceived with equal clarity and can look objectively at his surroundings.

Only in this state of mind can one achieve the intuitive action necessary to strike an opponent effectively. Such a degree of mental training must be of benefit in all aspects of living.