The title Sifu has very little meaning today as it did 100s of years ago.
It has many meanings, 1/ a guidance, 2/ father like figure 3/ teacher.
They instructed you in many facets of life, and giving you martial
arts instructions was just one of them.
You were taught correct values
and manners, customs etc. You were instructed in martial arts and medicine
and spiritual values.
That's why many skills or forms start with the
salutation to Buddha and later the Gin Ly, fist and open palm.
To be
given the title sifu was not an easy issue.. one did not demonstrate
a few forms and then to be told 'you done them well, here's your Sifu
badge' One was watched for many years and was recommended to stay at
the Masters house to see your character development. Naturally today
its all different and I suppose the term coach is more suitable.
The
title sifu should always be placed behind your name never in front,
this is the custom. If you put in front it will be like saying i am
MASTER etc etc. behind the name is seen as a honor.
