What’s in a Title/Name – Plenty!
Quoting, paraphrasing and/or modifying an essay/article written by the late
Master Mary Davis-Cates which appeared in CNOMAA, Inc “Dragon Nhus – 1995”

“Philosophy is the cornerstone of each martial art style’s tradition. At the core of each philosophical system lies a moral code of conduct and ethics incorporating etiquette, common sense and mutual respect. The majority of martial art styles are based on traditional rank and hierarchical systems. Each upper rank commands a degree of respect appropriate for the particular level. It is each style’s philosophy that makes them unique and propels us into a caring, supporting and loving environment.”

“Everyone has a fundamental need to be valued and appreciated. The effort required to be courteous and respectful pales in comparison to the energy it takes to criticize and ridicule others. Being mindful of the small courtesies and details is a reflection of how you view yourself. To show respect to another individual is, at its core, simply good manners. We all need to pay close attention to how we treat others regardless of rank.”

Proper and continued enforcement of etiquette and tradition in any style is required to ensure a strong foundation in respect. A key component of tradition lays in the titles Doshu, Grandmaster, Shihan and Sensei. The Japanese term “Doshu” means “Master of the Way” and is only used for the Head of Style/Soke. It is a respected title bestowed to one who has created or inherited a martial arts system, and for one who has reached a level of great maturity, strength and leadership. The “Doshu” of any style is deserving of your genuine respect and honor. Individuals who are fortunate enough to have a long, personal relationship with a Doshu are reminded to monitor how your demonstration of respect for him/her is perceived by others. “To defy him is not appropriate. Instead, be mindful of your manners and govern yourself with a level of respect that comes from the heart. Appropriate and mindful behavior is more important than physical training, proper technique or one’s own accomplishments.” For example, if Doshu “visits your dojo or is present at testing, it is appropriate for the most senior instructor to alert everyone of his/her presence, and for each student, regardless of rank, to bow to him/her as a sign of respect and acknowledgment.”

Similarly, receiving the rank of: black belt thru Sandan (3rd degree); Yondan (4th degree) thru Shichidan (7th degree); or Hachidan and Kudan (8th and 9th degree), is a deserving gift honored by the titles of “Sensei”, “Shihan” and “Grandmaster”, respectively. It is only through hard work, dedication and discipline that a martial artist is bestowed with titles.  “The accomplishment loses that honor and is disrespected when any of these titles are disregarded by anyone, even the individual themselves, such as by telling others not to address them by his/her appropriate title.” Moreover, to refer to a Sensei as “Master”, “Shihan” or “Grandmaster” “when they have not had this title bestowed upon him/her, is presumptuous and arrogant on the part of the addressor. Such action is equally disrespectful and shows a lack of regard for their position/rank. Either action does not contribute to the honor or respect for the individual, and reveals a great deal about the character and attitude of the person addressing the upper rank. If you find yourself in a situation where you are uncertain how to address someone, it is permissible to ask someone, but in any case, always be respectful. However, if you cannot be genuine and honest in exhibiting respect, then it is best to remain silent.” “The titles,” “Sensei”, “Shihan”, “Grandmaster”, and “Doshu” “deserve our care and special handling. They should not be discounted or inflated in usage.”

“It is the responsibility of each advanced rank (especially at the highest levels) to reinforce appropriate etiquette and tradition. The upper ranks set the standard for the hierarchy of respect and are the example followed by the lower ranks. Perpetuating improper behavior by allowing it to occur, reinforcing it, or by setting a poor example will only result in flagrant disregard for proper etiquette, and only serve to discredit yourself, your students, your school and your style.”

*(The words Doshu, Shihan and Grandmaster were substituted instead of the words O’Sensei and Master as in the original essay/article, but the idea and principle expressed is identical.)