THE CONCEPT OF KENDO

 Kendo is a way to discipline the human character through the application of the principles of the Katana. - All Japan Kendo Federation

5 Kamae - Refers to the 5 stances: JODAN, CHUDAN, GEDAN, HASSO, and WAKI GAMAE.

Kata - A model "form" which depicts in detail the ideal states of the mind, WAZA and the body which are acquired through practice.

Ki ai - The act of concentrating on the opponent's moves and on one's planned moves, and mounting a challenge with the utmost caution.  It refers to the vocalizations one produces when in such a state of mind.

Ki - The basic energy which exists in all matter that is born, develops, and dies.  In human beings, it is the kinetic energy responsible for perception, sensation, and instinct.  In KENDO, it refers to the environment surrounding one and his/her opponent, and it determines the relationship between one's body and soul.

Moku so - A courtesy which is performed with everyone sitting together at the beginning and end of KEIKO.  Meditation performed sitting in the SEIZA position, with the left hand on top of the right hand and both thumbs touching.

Sazauki - One of the courtesies in KENDO, this term expresses the correct ways of standing up and sitting down when performing a ZA-REI (seated bow).  When sitting down, one should take one step back with the left foot and lower the body, first placing the left knee on the floor.  When standing up, one should bring the right foot one step forward, pull the right knee up, then rise.

Shi Kai (4 weakness) - The four weaknesses of the heart: astonishment, fear, doubt, and hesitation.

Shu Ha Ri - A maxim which is used generally in training and study.  It is used as a term which explains the levels of training in KENDO.  SHU is the level where one obeys the principles of a particular style (school) and learns them solidly.  HA is the level where one does not simply adhere to the style one has learned, but through interchange with other schools, expands and deepens one's own techniques.  RI is the level where one further develops one's art and establishes a new, personal style.

Zanshin - Even after striking, the state of keeping alert and guarded in case of a counterattack by the opponent. 

REFERENCE: Japanese-English Dictionary on Kendo