Martial arts is a popular activity that is widely practiced across the region, attracting people of all ages and backgrounds. If a child has too much energy or needs discipline, the parent opts to enrol them in martial arts classes. Others, young or old, practice the art because it offers a unique blend of physical fitness, mental focus, self-defence skills, a sense of community, and camaraderie. To many, martial arts is a fulfilling and rewarding activity.
What many don’t focus on is the spiritual aspect that it leaves behind for those who practice. I don’t believe all forms of martial arts are spiritually influenced, but certain styles and practices do incorporate elements of spirituality and mindfulness. I can recall my own experiences of how Capoeira affected me spiritually…and it wasn’t the Holy Spirit that I felt during practices. Rather, it was an uneasy, dark, and heavy feeling of being overwhelmed. Now I am aware that God doesn’t give us a spirit of fear but a Spirit of power, love, and self-control, according to 2 Timothy 1:7.
For those who have never heard of Capoeira, it is an Afro-Brazilian martial art and game that includes elements of dance, acrobatics, music, and spirituality. It is known for its acrobatic and complex manoeuvres, often involving hands on the ground and inverted kicks. It was also designed with deception to keep the slave masters from prying into the slaves’ “social lives.”
The whole game is a ritualistic set-up. The roda is a circle, but not a simple circle, where you wait to play. It’s a circle where the other players join in the capoeira songs to help build the energy of the roda, or axe, as they call it.
Singing Capoeira songs helps the players feed off of the energy and rhythm of the music, enhancing the flow and intensity of the game. By actively participating in the songs, I not only showed my dedication but also my respect for the tradition and history of Capoeira. I believed that through this immersive experience, I could deepen my understanding of the art form and become a more well-rounded Capoeirista.
It was very important to learn the songs so you could join in the chorus and help feed the idols placed in the roda. It starts with the playing of musical instruments, and once the players enter, they bow and pay their respects to the contra mestre, who is the teacher. The realms of martial arts are to be examined beyond what meets the physical eye, but with the lens of the Holy Spirit.
If God is not about religion, then what business does martial arts have to do with religion? Nothing good! The majority of the arts practiced are infused with religious practices, such as Capoeira, Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, Ninjutsu, Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Jiu-Jitsu, and lots more. These martial arts forms may provide physical training and self-defence skills, but it is essential to recognise that some of them have deep-rooted connections to various spiritual beliefs and rituals.
In my upcoming book, “Journey to Hephzibah,” I delve into the secrets that were revealed to me after my deliverance from the grip of oppression. One of the significant insights shared by God pertained to the occultic practices intertwined within martial arts. By performing specific moves and reciting chants, some practitioners unknowingly engage in idol worship, defying the commandment in Exodus 34:14 to worship no other god but the Lord.
These revelations shed light on the hidden dangers that many martial arts enthusiasts may be unaware of. As I continued my research, I discovered that certain martial arts forms, such as Kung Fu and Tai Chi, originated from ancient Chinese traditions deeply rooted in Taoism and Buddhism. These practices often incorporate spiritual elements, such as meditation and energy manipulation, which can open doors to spiritual influences beyond one’s control. While practitioners may view these practices as mere exercises or techniques, they are unknowingly participating in rituals that have significant spiritual implications. It is crucial for individuals to understand the potential spiritual consequences of their involvement in martial arts and to make informed decisions about their training.
Furthermore, Capoeira is rooted in mandinga, which is Portuguese for witchcraft, sorcery, and magic. Engaging in practices that are rooted in witchcraft and sorcery, such as Capoeira and any other religion-based martial arts, directly contradict God’s commandments.
As followers of Christ, we are called to abstain from any form of witchcraft or occult practice. It is essential to prioritise God’s guidance and seek His wisdom in every aspect of our lives, including the martial arts we choose to engage in. By aligning ourselves with His will and avoiding practices that go against His commandments, we can ensure that our devotion remains solely focused on the one true God. Always keep God’s word in mind, “For you shall worship no other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God” (Exodus 34:14).