10/27/2025
Over these past few weeks, I've had time to reflect on just how much the NKJF means to me. A reflection of 51 years. The people that I've met, the warriors that I have trained with on the mat, and the challenges of this new mentality, the "me" movement. The tradition of the old ways has changed momentum to selfishness, arrogance, narcissism, and ignorance.
This has caused me to reflect not only on my Budo roots but also on yours. I've taken the time to express as follows:
Symbolism of the NKJF Patch, Logo, and Mark:
National Karate Jujitsu Federation (NKJF), USA-International™
Forged on March 1, 2021, the NKJF mark symbolizes both a continuation of heritage and the beginning of a new warrior path. Created by Sensei Steven E. Johnson, Hanshi, the emblem honors the four great pillars who carried Motobu-Ha Sh*tō-ryū Karate-Dō and Jujitsu into the National Karate Jujitsu Union (NKJU/NKJU-International): Soke Shogo (Kosho) Kuniba, Hanshi Richard P. Baillargeon, Hanshi Tola E. Lewis Jr., and Hanshi Lemuel “Doc” Stroud. Through their wisdom, dedication, and leadership, the NKJF lineage was planted, nurtured, and carried forward. This emblem is not merely a design; it is a mandala of Budo, a map of spirit, technique, honor, and eternity.
At the heart of the symbol lies the Hara, the crossroads of body and soul. Every diamond, line, and vine returns to this center, reminding us that one’s true nature flows inward before it radiates outward. The shape forms an “X,” pointing in all cardinal directions and upward toward the Divine, anchoring us to self-discipline while acknowledging forces beyond the physical world. It is reminiscent of the cross, representing sacrifice, resurrection, and the moment where ego dissolves and Budoka emerges.
The lines reflect the endless tactical principles of kata: angles, entries, parries, traps, balance-breaking, and controlled explosion. Like kata, they cross, divide, reunite, and spiral in complex harmony. Where conflict breeds chaos, technique brings clarity. Circular elements soften the edges and return power to its source, turning an opponent’s force—through wisdom—back upon itself. Every clash becomes a lesson in timing, distance, and resolve.
The circle, the most ancient symbol of wholeness and eternity, represents reality without edges or limits. In Budo, the greatest victory is harmony: mind, body, and spirit aligned to purpose. Karate teaches us that strength lies not in what we hold but in what we release. Jujutsu shows that circular movement, breath, and internal force overcome brute strength. Together they shape the NKJF path: gentleness guiding power and power protecting peace.
The eight diamonds pay homage to Hanshi Stroud, father of Jujitsu within the NKJU and NKJF legacy, and reflect the Hakko-ryu tradition. Hakkō, meaning “eighth light,” refers to the ultraviolet spectrum—unseen yet profoundly powerful. It symbolizes the subtle becoming unstoppable, the seemingly weak proving strong. Their eight spear-points reflect the Eight-Fold Path of righteous living: understanding, aspiration, effort, speech, conduct, livelihood, mindfulness, and concentration. Skill without virtue is empty; Budo must shape character as much as combat.
The colors speak with their own reverence. Purple has long represented royalty and repentance. Within Christian symbolism, it reflects both the sovereignty of Christ and humility before God—reminding us that true greatness bows to purpose. In Hakko-ryu tradition, purple marks the highest rank, earned not through dominance but through refinement of spirit.
The Wisteria (Fuji-mon) honors the Kuniba family crest and symbolizes direct lineage to Motobu-Ha Sh*tō-ryū Karate-Dō. It takes fifteen years for Wisteria to mature and bloom, just as it takes years of relentless effort to raise a budoka from white belt to Shihan. True beauty emerges through patience, persistence, and discipline.
The vines represent the Federation itself: supportive yet unyielding, humble yet unstoppable. They stretch outward, embracing the worthy while entangling falsehood and corruption. The leaves symbolize the students, gaining color, courage, and spirit from the roots of tradition. Properly nourished, they blossom, ensuring that the art continues to grow and flourish for generations to come.
The National Karate Jujitsu Federation (NKJF), USA-International® stands as a testament to unity. Our growth is infinite. Our bonds are sacred. Our weakest link becomes our greatest responsibility. Like the Wisteria, we rise, we hold together, and we flourish. This emblem is more than a badge; it is a vow. A vow to our ancestors. A vow to our students. A vow to the future of authentic Budo.
Interpretation and Design by:
Steven E. Johnson, Hanshi
Founder, President/Director
NKJF USA-International
