Black Belt Certificate Symbology
The Golden Corners:
The four golden corners on the American Institute of Kenpo’s (AIK) Black Belt Certificate bear the initials of the individuals who significantly influenced its founding and development. The top left corner honors Sigung Stephen LaBounty, Mr. Pilch’s most recent Kenpo instructor. The top right corner is dedicated to Mike Winkeljohn, Mr. Pilch’s instructor during his early years. The bottom left corner recognizes Lee Sprague, one of Mr. Pilch’s valuable mentors during his foundational years. The bottom right corner honors Bill Packer, the founder of the American Kenpo Karate Academies, the organization with which Mr. Pilch commenced his Kenpo journey. These individuals have not only pioneered the martial principles we have incorporated into AIK but have also profoundly influenced the ethical and professional model that governs our organization today.
The Tiger:
The tiger symbolizes the initial stages of learning and is historically associated with earthly strength (physical prowess). The yellow and orange hues represent the rudimentary steps taken on the path to proficiency, akin to the mechanical stage. The limited presence of brown pigment in the eyes corresponds to the rank of brown belt in the advanced students. The limited presence of brown in the eyes emphasizes the rarity of reaching the advanced stages of training and underscores the significance of maintaining focus to achieve this goal.
The Dragon:
The dragon, a symbol of advanced learning and spiritual strength (intelligence, mental attitude, and humanity) in historical symbolism, represents the ultimate goal of any martial artist. As martial artists gain knowledge of Kenpo, their apprehension of an aggressor diminishes, while their confidence in their ability to defend themselves grows. This transformation allows warriors to avoid unnecessary conflicts and emerge victorious, knowing that physical victory was attainable. The black scales of the dragon signify expert proficiency, while the red hues represent professorship. Throughout the dragon’s body, hues of yellow, orange, purple, blue, green, and brown represent the diverse levels of development required to attain expertise. These colors serve as reminders to professors and instructors to maintain humility and be prepared to revisit their students’ learning levels to meet their expectations. Notably, the dragon’s eyes bear traces of white, symbolizing an unwavering commitment to learning and personal growth.
Pagoda Forest:
The profound roots of many martial arts are deeply embedded in Shaolin temples and Chinese culture. The Pagoda Forest in the background serves as a testament to these historical influences and the evolution of our style. The clear sky on the right side symbolizes the periods of ease and prosperity that we should strive to attain. It is imperative that we diligently cultivate and embrace these favorable circumstances. Conversely, the stormy side on the left represents the challenges and obstacles that life presents, which are essential for growth and development. Every black belt has encountered both periods of success and adversity during their training journey. We firmly believe that the skills acquired to navigate these challenges will not only benefit our students but also serve them well throughout their lives.
The Floating Lanterns:
The floating lanterns originate from Japanese culture and are inscribed on the certificate to honor their influences in our art, as well as those who have paved the way for us and passed on. All black belts are encouraged to further research the information contained on the lanterns.
The front lantern bears the I-Ching on its side and the code of Bushido on the front.
The code of Bushido Kanji, arranged in rows from right to left, is as follows:
Top Row - Loyalty, Bravery, Courtesy
Bottom Row - Sincerity, Truth, Compassion, Discernment
The I-Ching is a direct tribute to Sigung Stephen LaBounty. The three lines represent the embryonic (ideal), mechanical (what if), and sophisticated (spontaneous) phases of education. The open circle symbolizes the enlightened (sphere of one’s knowledge) stage, reminding us that we are perpetual students. Information and skills will emanate from all directions, and we should always be receptive to sharing our acquired wisdom with others.
The second lantern incorporates anchors and triggers. “Bushido” is inscribed on the lantern’s side, while “Whatever it Takes, Until the Last Day” is displayed on the front.
The furthest back lantern bears the AIK Friends and Family logo on its side and Shu, Ha, Ri on the front.
The Senior Master Belt:
The Senior Master Belt, affixed to the diploma, symbolizes the esteemed rank of Sigung Stephen LaBounty. Its presence serves as a constant reminder to all black belts that while we acknowledge and honor their accomplishments, they should perpetually strive to uphold the principles of honor, respect, and constructive contribution to the lineage and legacy of our martial art.