Grand Master James S. Benko |
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Grand Master James S. Benko |
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The color belt system is not just a representation of rank advancement, it is also is an acknowledgement of individual
personal growth. Such advancement signifies not only growth within the dojang (training hall), but that of positive character and growth
outside of the dojang.
The interpretation of the belt colors, which follows, is but one of many possible meanings. For example, the color blue could represent the water,
as opposed to the sky, which the plant receives in order to continue to grow.
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 signifies a birth, or beginning, of a seed. A white belt
student is a beginner searching for knowledge of the Art.
 signifies the first beam of sunlight which shines
upon the seed giving it new strength with the beginning of new life.
A yellow belt student is given his/her first ray of knowledge, opening
his mind, from an instructor.
 signifies the growth of the seed as it sprouts from
the earth reaching toward the sun and begins to grow into a plant. A green belt student learns to further
develop and refine his/her techniques.
 signifies the blue sky as the plant continues to grow
toward it. A blue belt student moves up higher in rank just as the plant
grows taller. The light feeds the plant so it can continue to grow.
The student is fed additional knowledge of the Art in order for his/her
body and mind continue to grow and develop.
 signifies the red-hot heat of the Sun as the plant
continues growing toward it. A red belt student is higher in rank,
he/she acquires more detailed knowledge and, just as the
plant grows slowly toward the Sun, so the red belt student learns
to be more cautious as his/her knowledge and physical abilities increase.
 signifies the darkness beyond the Sun. A black belt
seeks new knowledge of the Art. As he/she begins to teach others, he/she
begins planting new seeds, his/her students, many of which will take root
deep into the Art, blossom and grow through the ranks in a never-ending
process of self-growth, knowledge, and enlightenment.
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The color of the belts used is by no means merely some random selection of colors to distinguish the different ranks.
Each belt color has a meaning symbolizing advancement and increased awareness.