The word Oss is used as a basic salutation but has many other meanings and functions as well. It is also a response–when your name is called, when saying goodbye or goodnight, and before and after meals. Essentially, Oss has been adopted globally as a universal sign of discipline and respect that reflects the spirit of the martial arts. Use of the word has exploded far beyond karate into other martial arts like judo, aikido, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, kickboxing and mixed martial arts making it arguably the most frequently uttered Japanese word in the world. Yet ironically, very few martial artists (even in Japan) know the true origins and the deeper meaning behind the term. Although it is universally used, it remains a total mystery to everyone. This book promises to finally reveal the mystery behind the word Oss and its fascinating origins.
