A second “myth” about Karate (and Martial Arts in general) is that there are traditionally many different colors of belt used in rankings. It is true that now, as well as white belt, there are often yellow, green, brown (and even blue and red) belts awarded as one progresses through the nine or ten Kyu grades before obtaining a black belt as Dan. These colors are a relatively recent addition, a visual incentive to encourage students to push on and strive for the next grade, as well making it easier to tell who is at what level during classes and tournaments.
However, traditionally, there was only a white belt, signifying the spiritual purity necessary to practice the deep philosophy of the Ways. As one practiced over the years, this white belt gradually acquired a patina of stains and darkened in color, so that those who had advanced and attained some degree of mastery eventually had “black belts.” The true color for anyone’s belt in Karate, therefore, is white.
Note: Black belts are black only on the outside. Over the years they fray to reveal a white interior. One can gauge, therefore, how long someone has been a black belt by how much white is showing. It is an irony, therefore, that some new black belt students repeatedly wash their belts to advance this fraying process and make them look more like seasoned veterans.
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