Philosophy
The KIA logo is rich in symbolism and meaning. The Prayer hands encircled by the karate belt signify spiritual perfection through martial arts. The hands themselves contain three triangles: 1. the outer shape of the hands; 2. the shape of the thumbs; 3. the inner triangle formed by the index fingers. Symbolically, the Triangle has universally represented perfection and the integration of body, mind and spirit—the true purpose of martial arts study.
There are also three circles: the two circles housing the text of the KIA and the third circle of the belt enwrapping the hands, further reinforcing the concept of the Trinity and its Perfection. The Circle universally represents the circles and cycles of life and a continuum without beginning and without end.
Furthermore, the number Two (representing the duality of this dimension and the interplay of opposites: Yin & Yang, Masculine & Feminine, Hard & Soft, Day & Night, Positive and Negative) is also represented three times: 1. by the two hands themselves (Left and Right), the two tabs on the belt tie and the two dots on opposite sites of the Karate Institute of America name.
The KIA logo stands for excellence and perfection in all life, not just in karate. Its deep and profound meaning establishes a code of Perfection, Completion and Balance in all things and forever remains a beacon for the martial arts soul in ascent.
