Silat Kuntao Southeast Asian Martial Methods


Book Description

A beginner's guide to martial principles and application examples of Indonesian Pentjak Silat and Kuntao. This book is a great overview, but intermediate and advanced students of these martial arts might find it too basic for their needs.




History of Southeast Asia's Dynamic and Diverse Fighting Styles


Book Description

In the heart of Southeast Asia lies a treasure trove of martial arts traditions, each with its own story to tell. From the lush jungles of Indonesia to the bustling streets of Singapore, these fighting styles embody the spirit and diversity of the region. At the core of this rich tapestry lies Silat, a dynamic and intricate martial art practiced by millions across the archipelago and beyond. Our journey begins with an exploration of Silat's origins, delving into the historical and cultural contexts that shaped its development. Tracing its roots through centuries of migration, trade, and conquest, we uncover the influences that have sculpted Silat into the multifaceted art form it is today. From the ancient kingdoms of Srivijaya and Majapahit to the modern nation-states of Indonesia and Malaysia, Silat has evolved alongside the shifting tides of history, adapting and flourishing in a dynamic landscape. As we delve deeper, we encounter the many faces of Silat, each reflecting the unique traditions and practices of its practitioners. From the graceful movements of Pencak Silat to the explosive techniques of KunTao Silat, we explore the diverse range of styles that fall under the umbrella of this martial art. Along the way, we uncover the underlying philosophy that binds them together, transcending mere combat to encompass a holistic approach to mind, body, and spirit. Silat's rich tapestry extends beyond the realm of physical technique, encompassing a wealth of cultural significance and social relevance. We examine its role in traditional rituals and ceremonies, where it serves as both a form of entertainment and a means of spiritual expression. We also explore its portrayal in popular culture, from folklore and mythology to contemporary film and literature, revealing the enduring appeal of Silat in the modern world. But Silat's influence extends far beyond the borders of Southeast Asia, as we discover in our exploration of its global spread. From the shores of Europe to the shores of the Americas, Silat has captivated practitioners and enthusiasts alike, inspiring countless individuals to embark on their own journey of discovery. We examine the challenges and opportunities that arise from this newfound recognition, as Silat adapts to meet the demands of a changing world. Throughout our exploration, one theme remains constant: the timeless allure of Silat and its enduring relevance in today's society. Whether as a means of self-defense, a path to spiritual enlightenment, or simply a way to stay fit and healthy, Silat offers something for everyone. As we navigate the pages of this book, we invite you to join us on a journey of discovery, as we uncover the secrets of Southeast Asia's dynamic and diverse fighting styles. In a world where cultural heritage is increasingly threatened by globalization and modernization, this book stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Silat and its importance in preserving the rich tapestry of Southeast Asian martial arts. Through its detailed exploration of Silat's history, philosophy, techniques, and cultural significance, it offers readers a comprehensive understanding of this ancient art form and its place in the modern world. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner, a curious enthusiast, or simply someone with an interest in exploring new cultures, this book is indispensable reading for anyone seeking to unlock the secrets of Silat and the martial traditions of Southeast Asia.




KunTao


Book Description

This book gives an overview of the history of KunTao, explaining the Hakka culture as well as how KunTao came into being. After tracing the history back several thousand years Mr. Seiwert goes on to examine the roots of KunTao and the martial arts styles that evolved into this highly effective fighting system. He then discusses the basic principals while demonstrating the tools and weapons used in KunTao, in addition to showing basic training drills as well as combative scenarios and applications using over 350 photos. Free eBook with purchase of Paperback copy through Amazon Matchbook program.




The Fighting Art of Pencak Silat and its Music


Book Description

Fighting arts have their own beauty, internal philosophy, and are connected to cultural worlds in meaningful and important ways. Combining approaches from ethnomusicology, ethnochoreology, performance theory and anthropology, the distinguishing feature of this book is that it highlights the centrality of the pluripotent art form of pencak silat among Southeast Asian arts and its importance to a network of traditional and modern performing arts in Southeast Asia and beyond. By doing so, important layers of local concepts on performing arts, ethics, society, spirituality, and personal life conduct are de-mystified. With a distinct change in the way we view Southeast Asia, this book provides a wealth of information about a complex of performing arts related to the so-called 'world of silat'. An ancillary media companion website (www.bits4culture.org/pencaksilatandmusic/) is part of this work. Login authorisation information is included in the book. Contributors include: Bussakorn Binson, Jean-Marc de Grave, Gisa Jähnichen, Margaret Kartomi, Zahara Kamal, Indija Mahjoeddin, Ako Mashino, Paul H. Mason, Uwe U. Paetzold, Kirstin Pauka, Henry Spiller and Sean Williams.




The Martial Arts of Indonesia


Book Description

Preserved in music, dance, and art--as well as in ritual, tribal law, and mythology--the fighting arts of the Indonesian archipelago play a central role in Indonesian culture. The Martial Arts of Indonesia is a heavily illustrated and well-researched work from revered martial arts scholar and teacher Donn F. Draeger. Draeger offers an expert's perspective on the story of Indonesia's martial culture, providing a comprehensive introduction to the sophisticated forms of empty-hand combat. These acrobatic fighting styles like Pencak Silat--which was granted World Cultural Heritage status by UNESCO in 2019--and Kuntao are growing in popularity around the world. This book also has extensive information on traditional Indonesian weapons including: Keris: A dagger with a waved blade and pistol-grip handle Kujang: A sickle-shaped dagger with a distinctive curve Rencong: An L-shaped knife with a slightly curved blade Draeger shows how these unique Indonesian forms are related to their mainland cousins, provides a historical context for their development, and describes the various combat methods employed throughout Indonesia. This edition includes a new foreword by Gary Nathan Gartenberg, the world's leading expert on Indonesian martial arts, which explains the lasting importance of this classic study of an ancient martial tradition. With over 400 photos and illustrations of moves and weapons that showcase the intricacies of the Indonesian fighting forms, The Martial Arts of Indonesia is an indispensable addition to any martial artist's library.




Indo-Malay Martial Traditions Vol. 1


Book Description

Many Indo-Malay martial arts are kept private, taught in secluded areas away from the public. These are arts of the older tradition, developed when combative knowledge was valued for its use in protecting the sanctity of life. This two-volume anthology brings together a great collection of writings by authors who dove into the deepest realms of Indo-Malay combatives. They offer readers a rare viewing of martial traditions that is usually hidden behind social shrouds of secrecy and a clannish quest to preserve their own martial arts. For the lead chapter in Volume 1, Dr. Philip Davies masterfully details the complex social milieu in the Indo-Malay martial tradition, focusing on the Chinese arts referred to by the ambiguous term of kuntao. His writing underlines the importance of martial arts to specific social groups, and what and how these groups practice these combative forms. As an initiate into the art of Bimi Kakti, James Wilson's chapter illustrates how beliefs and practices intertwine, especially with the animistic roots of Indonesia. The influence makes Javanese silat unique in practice as well as social standing. A main ingredient in Southeast Asian silat styles is kebatinan: "the science of the inner." Mark Wiley's chapter discusses how the blend of ancient animistic beliefs and mystical religions have given a psychological charge to silt's methods as a source of mystic power. Dr. Kirstin Pauka’s chapter reports on a rare celebration—the Pauleh Tinggi ceremony. This three-day long event occurs only when the social needs arise and may not occur again for decades. Silat performances by individuals, pairs, and groups are the primary features and go on throughout each day and night. Descriptions of the mental and physical sides of the silat performances offer readers a view of a martial tradition in which combative skills flow from an inner mystical guidance that flows through the movements. The psychic state is embodied both the art as well as social relationships. All who are serious about the history and practice of Indo-Malay fighting arts will enjoy this special anthology, volumes one and two. We are very fortunate to assemble the works of these highly qualified authors. We hope reading will provide information you seek. Although the availability of studying under a true silat mater is nearly impossible, the chapters here will certainly add direction and inspiration for practitioners.




Silat Ikhtiar - The South East Asian Martial Art


Book Description

A clear and concise manual with over 800 illustrations. The training manual of the South East Asian Martial Art Silat Ikhtiar with all the techniques including hand-fighting and the weapons: Pisau, Badek, Parang and Keris. An inspirational collectors item




Secrets of the Knife


Book Description

You are walking to your car and suddenly confronted by an armed attacker. What do you do? Knife assaults can be extremely dangerous and it is best to avoid them if you can, but sometimes that is not possible. Carrying a firearm can help to equalize the situation, but it is not a panacea to the problem. If you cannot get to the weapon then it does you no good and at close range a knife usually has the edge (no pun intended). It is difficult to find a comprehensive book on knife training and defensive moves outside of military manuals and a few martial arts books. Most simply show you techniques, but never go into drills or concepts. Techniques are fine, but you need to be able to adapt to an ever changing situation. No two attackers or situations are ever the same, everyone reacts differently in a hostile environment and you need to be prepared. The drills and techniques in this book are taken from the Southeast Asian martial arts of Silat, KunTao and the Filipino arts of Kali and Escrima. These arts are known worldwide for exceptional blade skills. This book will help you to become familiar with knife attacks in order to de-mystify and take some of the fear away. If you understand how it can be used for an attack then you can begin to understand how to apply a suitable defense. With over 700 photos describing Drills and Combat Defenses and links to free videos provided so that you can actually see how the drills are done.




Hybridity in the Performing Arts of Southeast Asia


Book Description




Indo-Malay Martial Traditions Vol. 2


Book Description

Many Indo-Malay martial arts are kept private, taught in secluded areas away from the public. These are arts of the older tradition, developed when combative knowledge was valued for its use in protecting the sanctity of life. This two-volume anthology brings together a great collection of writings by authors who dive into the deepest realms of Indo-Malay combatives. They offer readers a rare viewing of martial traditions that is usually hidden behind social shrouds of secrecy and a clannish quest to preserve individual tradition. A special presentation in this second volume are the writings of Dr. Kirstin Pauka forming three chapters on silat (silk) of West Sumatra. The lead chapter discusses silk history, styles, training methods, and its use in dance. In chapter 2, Dr. Pauka shows that the martial arts constitute the core of the movement repertoire of the Randai folk theatre. Her third piece reports on an extended silk artist-in-residence program in the Asian Theatre program at the University of Hawai'i. The next three chapters contains some academic coverage of kuntao-silat in the Indo-Malay traditions, garnished with technical sections illustrating the martial aspects of the arts. Mark Wiley details Silat Seni Gayong’s ethical foundation for self-defense and nine techniqes illustrating the art with the help of Master Shiekh Shamsuddin. My own chapter offers a glimpse of how cultural streams from India and China contributed over centuries to native Indonesian fighting arts to form hybrid systems. Examples were derived from personal observations of practitioners in the Willem Reeders lineage. The research shows the original intent and practices of any highly efficient combative art. Chris Parker’s insightful chapter discusses applications of specific movements, the rhythm that can be achieved when employing them, and the space they fill as being of crucial importance for defense. Pencak silat postures form the focus of this study. All who are serious about the history and practice of Indo-Malay fighting arts will enjoy this special anthology, volumes one and two. We are very fortunate to assemble the works of these highly qualified authors. We hope reading will provide information you seek. Although the availability of studying under a true silat mater is nearly impossible, the chapters here will certainly add direction and inspiration for practitioners.