Becoming a Shihan is no easy task, after many years of training and dedication to the Bujinkan one must demonstrate several attributes apart from Taijustu and a dedication to the Bujinkan to be graded to 10th Dan.
Recommendation
In order to be considered for the grade of 10th Dan one needs to be recommended by 3 other Shihan’s, this recommendation is then put to Soke for his approval. In order for this to be done the candidate must have trained in Japan on several occasions.
Excellent Taijutsu
The candidate must of course have excellent command of Taijutsu and be able to demonstrate a high level of skill in both Unarmed and Armed situations.
Community Spirit
Many people are unaware that Soke requires the Candidate to have good community spirit both within the Bujinkan and external to their own community.
A Good Person
This requirement goes to the heart of what it means to be a Shihan, that being, a person who is considered for 10th Dan must:
- Be a genuine person in their heart,
- Must be honest and fair in all dealings
- Must not denegrate others,
- Must not associate or teach criminals,
- Must not engage in criminal activity,
- Must be beyond reproach as a person in society.
- Must uphold the values of the Bujinkan at all times
- Must not embarras Soke