Deshi

    I recently read an article where a person claimed that he had recently received the rank of Deshi.  I was mostly confused but a little amused by the use of the Japanese term deshi in this way.  While many people define deshi as student or pupil, and this is not an accurate representation of its true meaning, I have never seen the term used to denote a rank. 

    Deshi (弟子) is a Japanese word that is comprised of two parts.  The first part (弟), ototo, which means younger brother, uses the Chinese-derived pronunciation di, dei, or dai; and, this adds the meaning of ‘pupil’ or ‘disciple.’  The second part (子), ko, which means ‘child’ or ‘offspring,’ uses the Chinese-derived pronunciation zi, ci, or shi; and, the meaning is the same (Goldsbury, N.D.).  When combined into the term deshi, the most appropriate translation is probably disciple.  The term deshi denotes a very close relationship to the instructor similar to that of a familial relationship as if the student has become a part of the dōjō family.  Another term that indicates an even closer relationship is uchi-deshi.  The term uchi (内) literally means ‘inside’ therefore uchi-deshi literally means ‘inside disciple.’  This term typically denotes a student who lives and trains at the dōjō.    

    The relationship that the terms deshi and uchi-deshi indicate are not to be taken lightly by either the student or the instructor.  This type of relationship requires a spiritual commitment on the part of the student and a willingness on the part of the instructor to become a guide through life.  This commitment on the part of the student requires the attitude of nyunanshin which means ‘pliable mind’ and implies a willingness to put away preconceived ideas (Lovret, 1989, p. 171).  This attitude is necessary if the student ever hopes to learn the deeper teachings of his or her chosen art.

    It is important to note that one does not automatically become a deshi or uchi-deshi when one becomes a student, nor does one automatically become a sensei when one becomes a teacher.  There must be a willingness to commit to such a relationship with all of the implications that this relationship entails. Neither term denotes a rank. Rather, a teacher invites a student to become a deshi or uchi-deshi when the teacher thinks the student is serious and worthy; and, the term sensei is a title that the student gives to one’s instructor although the instructor may try to avoid this unless the instructor is willing to entertain the commitment that this implies.  

 

Bibliography

Goldsbury, P. (N.D.). Sensei / Shihan as "Teacher" in Japanese. Retrieved September 26, 2015, from Aikiweb: http://www.aikiweb.com/language/goldsbury1.html

Lovret, F. J. (1989). The Student's Handbook. San Diego: Taseki Publishing Co.