Aikido is said to be a non-competitive art that emphasizes harmonization with opponents, transcending the common concept of winning or losing. However, the founder Morihei Ueshiba did explain the concept of victory in Aikido through the phrase Masakatsu Agatsu Katsuhayabi 正勝吾勝勝速日, a simple yet profound expression. Before delving into its meaning, let’s discuss its origin. The phrase first appeared in Japanese mythology. According to the Nihon Shoki 日本書紀, Susanoo-no-Mikoto 素戔嗚尊 or 須佐之男命 (as mentioned in Kojiki 古事記), the son of Izanagi 伊邪那岐, made a vow in front of his sister, Amaterasu Omikami 天照大神, stating, “If my heart is pure, a male kami will be born; if impure, a female kami…