This article series is where we showcase some of the cool kanji that appear all throughout Dragon Ball. In today's lesson, we'll be looking at one of the many names for Goku and Krillin's famed mentor, Kamesennin! Exactly what kanji are used in this mighty martial artist's name?!

[Reading] Muten Roshi
[Meaning in Dragon Ball] While Kamesennin may be a run-of-the-mill albeit lecherous old man most of the time, when he does show off his true power, he can literally blow away mountains! His martial arts training strengthened both his mind and body, giving him the opportunity to found the Kame School with the objective of simply enjoying life. He is regarded as a figurative god of martial arts and, as such, as often referred to by the honorary title of "Muten Roshi", which roughly means "great old master".

Let's start by taking a look at the readings, meanings, and stroke orders.
"Muten Roshi" is composed of 4 kanji.

●Readings, Meanings, & Stroke Orders　*Source: Imidas (SHUEISHA)

Readings: bu, mu
Meanings: Brave. Strong. Courageous person. Warrior. The art of war.
<Cool Point!>
While this kanji represents strength, it doesn't mean simply physical strength, but rather the strength to confront danger and difficulties—perfect for the Dragon Ball universe! This kanji is also used in the name of Kamesennin and Turusennin's old teacher, Mutaito. It is also one of the characters found in the name of the legendary martial arts competition with over 100 years of history, the Tenkaichi Budokai.

Readings: ten, ame, ama
Meanings: Sky. God. Nature. Innate. Granted by the heavens. Upwards direction.

Readings: rou, o-iru, hu-keru
Meanings: To age. Aged. To accumulate experience.

Reading: shi
Meanings: Teacher. Army. Also a suffix used to indicate one's profession.

"Muten Roshi" is a title perfectly fitting of the man who taught not only martial arts but also the virtue of regular life skills like greetings and diligence. While Goku may have been more challenged by these lessons than he was by the art of fighting, it's because of them that he was able to attain his astonishing strength. These kanji might seem difficult to learn, but just as Goku did, don't give up until you've overcome this challenge!

See you in the next lesson!