On October 25th, practitioners of the Japanese martial art, Karate or ‘Karatekas’ marked World Karate Day, as a reminder of the day Okinawan masters gather in Naha and formally adopted the term Kara-Te 唐手 (empty hand). An estimated 50 million people practice karate globally, and it is said to have spread to as many as 150 nations, overcoming obstacles related to language, religion, race, boundaries, and political systems. Part of its rapid spread across the globe is due to Karate's unparalleled appeal and quality. As a "martial art for peace," karate is based on a grand philosophy that, “There is no first strike in karate” and “Life itself is treasure,” which express respect for human life. Karatekas firmly believe that karate is becoming more and more necessary in today's global society and that its benefits will only increase. The Okinawan Prefectural Assembly declared October 25th to be “Karate Day” with the hope that the Okinawan tradition of karate will develop and contribute to world peace and happiness more than ever.