Martial Arts and Religion

We have a new student scheduled for an introductory class this evening. Assuming this student shows, the class will be somewhat different from the flavor of martial arts we typically offer. Her interest is primarily in fitness kickboxing, somewhere in-between Tae Bo and the UFC. Now, as I'm sure is evident in some of my earlier posts, my focus is primarily in traditional martial arts, and I both study and teach those arts primarily for their philosophical and spiritual benefits. The student in question tonight has tried traditional martial arts training before, but did not enjoy it. As I prepare to offer what she is seeking, I find myself questioning the role of those things I enjoy in the martial arts, and just how applicable they are or should be. Many western students are frightened away from martial arts with any sort of religious undertones. But just how much of a role does one's religious affiliation play in their enjoyment of martial arts culture or activities?
I think to a great extent this depends on the religion in question. Zen Buddhist thought plays a role in many martial arts philosophies. So would a student of zen be more inclined to be a student of martial arts? Perhaps... How about a Christian? The prevalence of "Christian Martial Arts" associations I think is an attempt at a compromise between two seemingly opposed philosophical traditions. Now, is this a necessary compromise? I don't think so. But let's explore this just a bit. Meditation, devotion to a master, mysticism... These are things many Christians take offense at in the martial arts. "Before I send my child to your school, I want to make sure he isn't going to be learning any religious 'chi' kinda stuff," is sadly, not an uncommon thing to hear in the martial arts instruction industry. As I stated before though, I don't think the divide here is really that significant. Some of my best friends in the martial arts also happen to be devout Christians, and they don't have to compromise either the art or their own beliefs to be so. Realizing the difference between tradition, ceremony, etiquette, etc. and religious practice is an important one. Martial arts is not religion. So would a Christian be less inclined to be a martial artist? How about Judaism, Islam, Wicca, or Hinduism? How do the martial arts relate to these particular paths? Are martial techniques "Darwinism in action"? An athiest friend has made this proposition to me before on the grounds that the 'evolution' of martial arts techniques is dependent upon their effectiveness. Survival of the fittest style. I'm not too sure about that, but I might be able to accept it based on the ways in which martial arts have adapted to fill a new niche in our society in order to survive. The modern student of martial arts does not study in the same manner as, or for the same purpose, as did those before. I think enjoyment of martial arts and martial arts culture, as with any activity, is related to a myriad of factors, faith and personal beliefs among them. We must be careful not to generalize, however.
So too, instructors must be careful not to pigeon hole themselves into a mode of thinking. So I'll teach this kickboxing class, and see where it goes.

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