Dōjō Kun - Samurai Karate School

DōjōKun

The Dōjō Kun as a philosophical example Samurai Karate School Code of Conduct

At Samurai Karate School we believe not just in constantly developing purity of technique, but also in the development of judgement and character. It is a fundamental tenet of Karate-dō, and integral to achieving its limitless possibilities, that the mind as well as the body be in balance. This is why we encourage reciting the dōjō kun after each class to remind ourselves of essential, universal values. Even if we are not entirely conscious of each word, through verbal repetition, our unconscious mind will be better able to absorb the moral and philosophical lessons offered in the dōjō kun.

The Dōjō Kun

“Jinkaku Kansei Ni Tsutomuru Koto” “Strive Towards A Full, Complete Character”.

“人格完成に努むること”

Often translated as “seek perfection of character”, a more relevant interpretation for our needs would be to seek, not unattainable perfection, but a “full”, “whole”, or “well-rounded” character. We should be striving towards a certain knowingness in all things. Funakoshi sensei suggested that we look for karate lessons in everything. Therefore, all forms of martial art, and certainly all methods of karate-dō, must be observed deeply, to help develop our discernment and understanding of the whole karate puzzle. A true master must experience and learn from as many facets of life as possible. In time, along the path towards technical mastery, one will also acquire wisdom.

“Makoto No Michi O Mamoru Koto” “Defend Your Path Of Truth”.

“誠の道を守ること”

There are various ways of translating “makoto” (誠): truth; sincerity; honesty and integrity are all contained within this one word. This is why Makoto is a common name in Japan. This precept, the second of five, is not about simply being loyal (as some translations put it) to something specific like your teacher or your dōjō, it is about recognising your path in life, and being true to yourself. The character “michi” (道) can be read as “dō”, as in karate-dō or aikidō, and this is an indication of its importance. It elevates our commitment to an actual raison d’être. Choosing your path in life and living according to your sincere beliefs, and defending those beliefs, is encapsulated here.

“Doryoku No Seishin O Yashinau Koto” “Cultivate The Spirit Of Perseverance”.

“努力の精神を養うこと”

There can be no shortcuts in the practice of Karate-dō and the clichés of peeling away the layers to gain insight into the whys and wherefores of technique are true. The word “yashinau” (養う) contains aspects of fostering and nurturing, indicating that without them, one’s Karate-dō can easily lose its urgency. Funakoshi sensei wrote: “Karate-dō, like boiling water, needs continual heat or it returns to a tepid state”. One’s daily practice should, therefore, be constant and ritualistic. Miyamoto Musashi, the great swordsman, said it should be relentless. Perseverance to this degree, requires such diligent, relentless cultivation, and only then will you reap what you sow.

“Reigi O Omonzuru Koto” “Honour The Principles Of Etiquette”.

“礼儀を重んずること”

Karate practice can be extremely stimulating and exciting. Occasionally, we can feel our technique become crisp and strong, and we experience the thrill of danger. We must, therefore, be disciplined enough to rein ourselves in. Remembering always that with power comes responsibility. Karate-dō is part of the budō world, and “bu” (武) means not just chivalry, but also, stopping conflict. Becoming aggressive through the practice of karate is entirely the opposite of this concept. Shotokan karate-dō training may give you the tools to be courageous. However during class you must watch yourself, and have the objectivity to behave with humility. “Kekki” (血気) literally means “energetic blood” and knowing where and when to appropriately channel that energy is crucial..

“Kekki No Yū O Imashimuru Koto” “Guard Against Impetuous Courage”.

血気の勇を戒むること”

Translation and interpretation by Richard Amos Sensei