A Theoretical Examination of Lion's Roar

In this secton we will focus upon the traditional "secret teachings" (Maht Gow). These are individual Chinese characters, phrases and short sentences which explain the theory, principles and composition of the system and are essential for accurately understanding, practicing and using it. In the past, these were only taught to advanced students and were thus considered "secret".

While the content of the "secret teachings" may have changed over the many generations since the systems inception, it is currently composed of the following;

1. The strategic formula.
This is the system's principles of combat. Essentially, it represents the goals and methods of fighting.

2. The nine phrase internal formula.
These short phrases are all ideas used by the Chinese to explain the origin and development of the universe. They explain both the functioning of the internal system and the relationships between the various technical elements in the system. For example, the five elements (Nhg Haahng) can be used both to explain the function of the major internal organs and the way different techniques control and overcome each other in combat. The nine phrase internal formula is an extremely profound and complex theory which requires more in depth explanation than space permits here. It will the be subject of further study and part of a future work.

3. The four road traditional hand techniques.
This represents the four levels of the system. However, they refer to more than simply beginner, intermediate or advanced. They describe the acquisition of skills and the ability inherent in these skills.

4. The sixteen fist seeds.
The so-called fist seeds give birth to the entire system. The represent the various technical divisions contained within the system including various striking, kicking, grappling and joint manipulation techniques.