The Dojo Tokonoma: Inculturating Its Use To Be A Christian Prayer Altar

In traditional Japanese dojos, the Tokonoma is an alcove or table that serves as the spiritual and aesthetic center for the dojo mats. Typically adorned with a scroll, an image, or symbolic objects, the Tokonoma represents an area of reverence, contemplation, and deep connection to martial and often philosophical traditions. For Christian martial artists, the Tokonoma presents a unique opportunity for inculturation, expressing Christian faith through cultural symbols by serving as a dedicated space for prayer, devotion, and spiritual formation.

The Jing Jiao Dojo's Tokonoma

The Tokonoma as a Sacred Space for Prayer

In the dojo, the Tokonoma is not merely decorative; it holds deep significance as a focal point for reflection and discipline. Traditionally, it may contain an image of a revered master, a calligraphic representation of martial values, or a collection of objects signifying the art's lineage. Students traditionally bow toward the Tokonoma at the start and end of class as a sign of humility, respect, and dedication to their practice. This particular act of bowing is not an act of worship but an act of respect, similar to an Oriental equivalent to a military salute. For Christians, this practice can take on an even deeper spiritual dimension. Rather than simply being an emblem of the martial tradition, the Tokonoma can be transformed into a place for Christian prayer and contemplation. Just as a Christian home altar serves as a dedicated space for devotion—adorned with a crucifix, an icon, and a Bible—the Tokonoma can become a visual and spiritual reminder of Christ's presence within the dojo. Thus, the Tokonoma, when oriented toward Christ, functionally fills the same role as the traditional Christian Home Altar. In fact, if a martial arts instructor claims to be a Christian, it then becomes his solemn duty to pray for his students, seeking wisdom in how he may educate and disciple them; in these ways, the Tokonoma offers a natural setting for gently integrating faith into the martial arts.

Inculturation: Embracing Christian Faith in the Dojo

Christianity has long embraced inculturation, finding ways to express the Gospel within various cultures without compromising its essential truths. Using a tokonoma as a Christian prayer space is a perfect example, mirroring the practice of the Japanese Kakure Kirishitan Martyrs. Rather than being seen as a secular alternative to the distinctly religious kamidana or butsudan, the Tokonoma can be adapted to reflect the Christian faith while maintaining respect for The martial arts tradition. A Christian tokonoma should likely feature a prominent crucifix, an image of Christ, or a calligraphic wall scroll displaying a verse of Scripture relevant to the martial arts: such as Psalm 144:1 "Blessed be the Lord my strength which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight:". A pair of candles should be present to symbolize the light of Christ in the Old and New Testaments, reinforcing the idea that spiritual formation is more vital than physical training. By focusing the Tokonoma on Christ, martial artists create a tangible reminder that their discipline is not just about combat but character, virtue, and faith.

Traditional Japanese Christian Art From Before The Japanese Persecutions

The Dojo as a Place of Spiritual Formation

In the Martial Arts the concept of shugyō (intensive discipline) mirrors the Christian call to discipleship. The rigorous training of Martial arts within the dojo, framed by the quiet reverence of the Tokonoma, reflects the Christian pursuit of holiness through prayer, sacrifice, and perseverance. Just as a martial artist stands before the Tokonoma to center themselves before training, a Christian stands before their altar to prepare their heart for communion with God. Integrating Christian prayer into the dojo does not detract from martial training but rather fulfills it. By dedicating a tokonoma as a Christian prayer space, Christian martial artists acknowledge that true strength doesn't come from physical ability but primarily from The LORD. The virtues cultivated in prayer and training—humility, patience, and discipline—are essential to becoming a skilled martial artist and a faithful follower of Christ.

Conclusion

The Tokonoma is far more than a decorative alcove; it is a space of reflection, discipline, and reverence. For Christian martial artists, Structuring their dojo's Tokonoma as a prayer space aligns naturally with the principles of faith, offering a place to seek God's presence amid the discipline of training. By incorporating Christian symbols and dedicating the space to prayer, the Tokonoma becomes a link to martial heritage and a consistent means of encountering Christ in the dojo. Just as the home altar anchors the Christian in faith, so too can the dojo tokonoma become a sacred space where physical training and spiritual devotion are united in purpose.