Have you ever wondered about the significance of our dojo name?
At Shin Gan Dojo, our name is more than just a title; it’s a reflection of our core philosophy, our spiritual foundation, and the ultimate goal we strive for in our training and in life. Sensei Brian took great care and thought when choosing this name upon opening the school in 2004.
Dojo: A Place of Dedicated Training
The word Dojo (道場) simply means “a school for training in Japanese arts of self-defense.” It is a dedicated space where individuals commit to rigorous practice, discipline, and the pursuit of mastery.
Shin Gan: God’s Eyes
The heart of our name comes from the Japanese phrase: Shin shin, Shin gan (神心神目).
- Shin shin (神心): God’s Heart
- Shin gan (神目): God’s Eyes
The meaning of this phrase translates to the ability to “see what is not shown and hear what is not spoken.” It speaks to a deep intuition – an inner discernment that allows one to perceive truth and sense danger even before it fully manifests, that soft quite voice of Providence.
For us, Sensei Brian and Gigi Simmons, Shin Gan is chosen to honor the Creator’s ever-present guidance in our lives. We believe that recognizing and connecting with God provides the strength and power to overcome any challenge, whether in the great battles for survival or the daily struggles of life.
Please note that while our dojo name, Shin Gan, holds a profound personal meaning for us, we want to be clear that we do not teach or promote any specific religion or spirituality. Our school is a place for martial arts training, and we welcome all students, regardless of their personal beliefs or background.
