The kanji 節 (pronounced setsu) has a few meanings, like “joint” or “node,” which refer to the segments in bamboo or points where things are divided.In Karate, setsu 節 connects to ideas like control, rhythm, and the key points in techniques. Karate is all about mastering your movements and emotions, and this meaning of setsu 節 ties into that idea of self-control.It’s also about rhythm—timing is everything when it comes to executing techniques effectively. And when you break down complicated moves into smaller parts to learn them step by step, you’re reflecting the “section” meaning of Setsu 節.
In short, 節 represents control, rhythm, and breaking things down—core principles that are at the heart of Karate.