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Phillosoph

Hazing

Hazing does not refer to institutionalized bullying but to category of defensive techniques called kasumi in Japanese. “Haze” in this context refers to smoke, mist, or most accurately, the “fog of war”. Like the other form of hazing it is also a form of harassment.
Hazing covers a variety of different techniques that all have the same consequence: they disrupt the victim’s ability to see. Seldom considered in the gym or practice hall, such techniques may be used against you in a real fight. Hazing techniques include:
  • Throwing particulate matter. Ninja threw or blew special powders into an enemy’s eyes. In many environments dust, dirt, sand, gravel or snow is readily available for similar purposes. If a foe has a hand clenched this is a possible attack.
  • Throwing Weapons and other objects. Shuriken were often thrown towards the eyes as a distraction. Other weapons or less overtly bellicose objects can also be used. Wallets or coins may be thrown in the instance of a robbery.
  • Throwing liquids. A drink can be thrown into the eyes as a distraction technique. Strong alcohol or hot drinks can have an added effect. The glass or cup may them be used as a Weapon. Repulsive though it may seem, spitting at the opponent has also been used.
  • Jabbing or flicking the fingers at the eyes is another hazing technique. If the fingers do not make contact they may still provoke a flinching reaction that can be exploited.
  • Cuts to the forehead that bleed into the eyes may be considered to act as hazing.
  • Blows to the nose that cause the eyes to water may also be considered to be a form of hazing.