The meaning of Karate is self-defence with bare hands and fists without weapons. Just as it is the clear mirror that reflects without distortion, or the quiet valley that echoes a sound, so must one who would study Karate purge himself of selfish and evil thoughts, for only with a clear mind and conscience can he understand that which he receives. Next, he who would study Karate must always strive to be inwardly humble and outwardly gentle. He is like the green bamboo stalk; hollow (Kara) inside, straight, and with knots, that is unselfish, gentle, and moderate. This meaning is also contained in the element of Kara of Karate. Finally in a fundamental way, the form of the universe is emptiness (Kara) and thus, emptiness is form itself. It is no exaggeration to say that the original sense of Karate is at one with the basis of all martial arts. Form is emptiness, emptiness is form itself. The Kara of karate has this meaning.