Monday, 4 January 2021

Silat and Patience

In my previous articles, I've stated that silat is able to educate its practitioner to become a better person, be it physically, mentally and spiritually. Through physical training and understanding the art itself, one can cultivate noble values - honour, virtue, integrity, patience... The ability to remain calm and composed in times of danger. The capability to think straight and act accordingly on the fly. This is what silat training is about.

A silat warrior should never lose their patience, but do not take this as a sign of weakness or inactivity. A true warrior calculates every move before the move is made. They anticipate the reaction of the enemy, they "read" their opponent. This is where the 100-1 principle sets in. Nonetheless, there is still the "1". When faced with this alternative, the silat warrior will go all the way, no holds barred. To them, it is either victory or martyrdom. 

Of late, we have been presented with multiple accounts of racial and religious provocation in Malaysia. I'd hate to recount the events that took place half a decade ago on May 13th... This was when the Malays were pushed beyond the limits of their tolerance and patience. 100 ways have been exhausted, leaving but 1 option. Believe me, nobody wants that course of action, but if push comes to shove, the silat warrior will not stand by just watching things unfold.

Even during the time of the Prophet Muhammad PBUH, there was a time when it was necessary for a call to arms. It was when your honour, your families, your livelihood and your religion has been mocked and defiled. Your King dishonoured and spat at. No silat warrior would just let this be. The consequences will be very dire indeed. As such, I urge all parties to stop this nonsensical provocation of race and religion. It leads to nowhere but pain and suffering. Malaysia has been at peace for many years. Let's keep it that way.

Intangible Values of the Keris - a short commentary

Salam hormat and greetings noble folks. As a Malay, the keris is very close and very dear to me. I received my first real keris when I was s...