It occurs to me that pencak silat is all about the present. Though we may practice things that have historically worked, it is up to the pesilat to be fluid enough, personal and relational enough to apply that historic information in the present situation-in relationship with the opponent.
In addition, the pesilat's path is a perfect connection to the yogi's path. Both the path of destruction and healing. Both are required. Together THAT is love and Combat.
Similar to the idea of fitness, where both catabolism and anabolism are needed. Both are necessary for health.
There can be no boundary between you and the opponent, not between life and death. Pencak Silat is about communion, relationship, adaptation, and acceptance.
