Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969), referred to by his title 'O Sensei' or 'Great Teacher' was the founder of Aikido or "The Art of Peace". He created a martial art where one can exercise the physical body and the spirit in a way to harmonize both with the universe.

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He named this art by the following Japanese kanjis:

"Ai" translates to "be in harmony with";

"Ki" translates to "energy, spirit, breath"; and

"Do" translates to "path or a way of life".

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O Sensei emphasized the moral and spiritual

aspects of this art, placing great weight on the

development of harmony and peace.

 

Aikido can be translated into

"The Way of Harmony of the Spirit".

His teachings express Aikido as the martial art of Love, Peace and Harmony.