Soke

宗家

Title designating the headmaster or founder of a traditional Japanese school (Koryu).

Quick Facts

CategoryTitle

Pronunciation/[soh-kay]/

Alternative NamesHead of school, Headmaster

Definition

Soke designates the headmaster and custodian of a specific martial lineage. The Soke holds absolute authority over system curricula and confers Menkyo Kaiden teaching licenses.

Related Terms

Sensei先生

Honorific title for a teacher or instructor in Japanese culture.

Shihan師範

Honorific title awarded to senior master instructors within martial organizations.

Associated Martial Arts

Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu