Throat finger Jab

In the excerpt, Gozo Shioda shows a finger jab aimed at Uke's throat. As he demonstrates, he explains: "Next is concentration on what's in front of me. For a moment, immediately, the whole spirit must be focused on it. Whether it's a finger or a foot, it can be focused on. Press and hold like this, with one of my feet. Or, a finger, to catch him off guard. The finger is the sword.". We can assume that Shioda Sensei is referring to directing the entire body's weight and intent through a single, focused contact point using precise timing and correct body mechanics. Thus, even the tiniest, seemingly fragile part of the body — in this case, a finger — can become a sword: a decisive weapon when guided by perfect focus, alignment, and intent. Like a sword, a finger jab is precise, concentrated, and able to penetrate an opponent’s defenses when supported by the full power of the body.