The classical martial arts present themselves as rivals. One is a "hard" style, the other "soft". This one emphasizing kicks, that one specializing in punches, the other takes each opponent to the ground and wrestles. Yet the underlying premise is the same for each: a narrow system is presented as not only superior but holy. Laws are laid down, rituals are set in stone and rigid patterns are put in place. A shrine to the fixed knowledge is created, complete with ceremonies, rites and masters.