Security Warrior

Colophon

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The image on the cover of Security Warrior is a group of Sumo wrestlers. Sumo is the traditional national sport of Japan. An origin myth about Japan tells how the god Take-Mikazuchi won dominion over the Japanese islands in a Sumo match. Since then, Sumo wrestling has been an integral part of ancient religious ceremonies and was an important entertainment for the Imperial Court in the 1600s, when it became a professional sport. Sumo is one of the oldest martial arts; Judo and Jujitsu derive throws and techniques from Sumo wrestling. It continues to gain international popularity.

Before a match, the athletes march in procession around the ring wearing heavy ceremonial skirts embroidered with their symbols. Their hair is traditionally worn in a topknot (theoretically to protect their heads in a fall). Salt and sake is placed at the center of the ring to purify it, and the match is blessed by a priest. The contest pits two fighters, clad in thick silk belts, against each other in a ring (dohyo). Their object is to force an opponent out of the ring, or force him to touch the ground with any part of his body (the soles of the feet don’t count). As with any challenging sport, Sumo wrestling involves strict focus and mental toughness. The ...