Beringat sebelum padah, cemburu sebelum tercecah
Awareness is defined as: "...the state or ability to perceive, to feel, or to be conscious of events, objects, or sensory patterns".
Awareness theories abound, and the closest of these to Silat is that used in theatre training: "Awareness of self, Awareness of others, Awareness of space".
Awareness in Silat Melayu isn't present in a theoretical form, but it does exist in applied form.
In Silat Cekak, this is called "Beringat" or constantly on guard. The concept is grounded in 'amalan', not spiritual ones, but literally, ingrained habits that help protect the self. For example, never having your hands in your pockets, choosing to sit in a corner in a restaurant, or doing a check before exiting the house. This a long term strategy to create safe environments without too much thinking.
In Buah Pukul Mersing, this concept is called "Cemburu". Not the English jealousy, but the sense that you guard everything that belongs to you. For example, you are cemburu of the first 3 metres diameter away from your body and everything that enters this range automatically switches on your on mental guardedness. Practically, this can extend to your wife, husband, children, home, etc, for you will take precautions to keep them safe.
In Silat Melayu Keris Lok 9, this is called "Menjeling". The idea is that when you enter new surroundings or meet a new person, like a chess master, you immediately take stock of the situation and plan for escape routes, possible weapons, possible tactics, etc. The mind fantasises and simulates multiple outcomes to the point that the pesilat is mentally prepared for any result, including death. A sense of calm comes over him and his awareness software is running in the background, not worrying his conscious mind.
What is awareness to you?
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