Codes (Dojo Kun or Gokui) of Various Martial Art Styles
Japanese Pronunciation:
Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomuru koto.
Makoto no michi wo mamoru koto.
Doryoku no Seishin wo yashinau koto.
Reigi wo omonzuru koto.
Kekki no yu wo imashimuru koto.
English Translation:
Strive for completion of character.
Protect the way of the truth.
Foster the spirit of effort.
Respect the principles of etiquette.
Guard against impetuous courage.
(Attributed to Tatsuo Shimabuku in several books, but he didn't write it.)
by Sosai Mas Oyama and Eiji Yoshikawa
Dojo Kun
1. We will train our hearts and bodies for a firm unshaking spirit.
2. We will pursue the true meaning of the Martial Way, so that in time our senses may be alert.
3. With true vigor, we will seek to cultivate a spirit of self-denial.
4. We will observe the rules of courtesy, respect our superiors and refrain from violence.
5. We will follow our religious principles and never forget the true virtue of humility.
6. We will look upwards to wisdom and strength, not seeking other desires.
7. All our lives, through the discipline of karate, we will seek to fulfill the true meaning of the Kyokushin Way.
OSU!
of Soshu Shigeru Oyama (Given by Michael Garrett of Roseville, CA)
"Karate is neither a sport nor a play. A form of martial arts and should be practiced spiritually and physically."
Dojo Kun
1. We will train our hearts and bodies for a firm unshaking spirit.
2. We will pursue the true meaning of the martial way, so that in time our senses may be alert.
3. With true vigour we will seek to cultivate a spirit of self denial.
4. We wil observe the rules of courtesy, respect our superiors, and refrain from violence.
5. We will follow our gods and Buddha and never forget the true virtue of humility.
6. We will look upwards to wisdom and strength not seeking other desires.
7. All our life through the discipline of Karate we will seek to fulfill the true meaning of the way.
Note: Great similarity between the above two. No doubt, Shigeru Oyama took his code from the Kyokoshinkai Kun by his Master, Masutatsu Oyama (no relationship)
by Chojun Miyagi
Be mindful of your courtesy with humbleness.
Train yourself considering physical strength.
Study and contrive seriously.
Be calm in mind and swift in action.
Take care of yourself.
Live a plain and simple life.
Do not be too proud of yourself.
Continue training with patience and humbleness.
by Chojun Miyagi
It should be known that secret principals of Goju Ryu exist in the Kata.
Goju Ryu Karate-do is a manifestation within one's own self of the harmonious accord of the universe.
The way of Goju Ryu Karate-do is to seek the way of virtue.
by Miyagi Chojun
"You must, above all, learn the art of true and real patience.
Follow the WAY of patience to the seventh power and never be in a hurry to learn.
Always think first and avoid acting rashly.
Never harm anyone or let yourself be harmed."
Harmonize Body Mind and Spirit.
Be Sincere in your Learning.
Help one another learn the techniques.
Do not criticize, everyone is an individual.
Be courteous in mind and heart, respect the teachers who have taught you, and be grateful.
Do not become conceited. If you do your progress will stop.
Do not argue. Right is right, error is error.
Treat a person with respect and you will gain respect.
Do not become angry. He who is easily angered often loses courage at important moments.
Practice to the best of your ability and everyone will benefit.
Morio Higaonna
Japanese ('Hitotsu' literally means the first or first thing. It is often used before each line to show that each idea or concept is equally important.)
Hitotsu Reigo o/ omon zuru koto.
Hitotsu Yuukio/ Yashinau koto.
Hitotsu Dentoo karate o mamori/ hibino tanren o/ okotarazu tsune ni kenkyuu kufuu o/ suru koto.
Hitotsu Futoofukutsu no/ seishin o/ yashinau koto.
Hitotsu Shinshin o renmashi/ Gojuu ryuu karate no/ shinzui o/ kiwameru koto.
English
First Thing, Respect others.
First Thing, Be courageous
First Thing, Train your mind and body
First Thing, Practice daily and protect traditional karate.
First Thing, Strive to reach the essence of Goju-Ryu.
First Thing, Never give up.
Jun Do Kan United Kingdom
Be humble and polite.
Train considering your physical strength.
Practice earnestly and with creativity.
Be calm and swift.
Take care of your health.
Live a plain life.
Do not be too proud or modest.
Continue training with patience.
by Eiichi Miyazato
Be mindful of your courtesy with humbleness.
Train yourself considering physical strength.
Study and contrive seriously.
Be calm in mind and swift in action.
Take care of yourself.
Live a plain and simple life.
Do not be too proud of yourself.
Continue training with patience and humbleness.
First : Work hard to perfect your character.
First : Always act with good manners.
First : Refrain from violence and uncontrolled behavior.
First : Cultivate a spirit of endeavor and perseverance.
First : Have fidelity in seeking a true 'way'.
Dojo Kun
Kaicho Senaha Shigetoshi
Translation by Sunahara Yoshiko
* the number "1" appears aside each precept to show that every precept is given equal weight and that the list is not denoting order of importance.
We will devote ourselves to spread Karatedo with the world-wide view, and to cultivate and develop one's physical strength and one's spiritual health by studying and training.
For that purpose,
1 The teacher and the students relates each other on the basis of loyalty and honour.
1 Love and respect to one's father and mother.
1 Respect senior student.
1 Sincerity to one's friends.
1 Have affection for junior students.
We will always devote ourselves for training based on these five precepts.
The five precepts of Japan Karate-do Goju-Kai Dojo Kun
by Gogen Yamaguchi
We are proud to study the way of Goju.
We are courteous in manners.
We strive to develop courage and fighting spirit (humble yet strong).
We cultivate fellowship and understanding (the spirit of Cooperation).
We respect the ideals of loyalty and honor, traditional from olden times in Japan.
or
We who are studying Karate do aspire to these virtues:
We are proud to study the spirit of Goju Ryu.
We shall practice courtesy.
We shall be quick to seize opportunity.
We shall always practice patience.
We shall always keep the fighting spirit of Karate.
Five Secrets of Japanese Goju Ryu
By Gogen Yamaguchi
Move quickly.
Sound, calm mind.
Be light in body.
Have a clever mind.
Master the basics.
Shoreikan Dojo Kun
1. Hitotsu, Reisetsu O Toutobu Beshi - One thing, be always courteous and humble.
2. Hitotsu, Wa No Kokoro O Yashinau Beshi - One thing, cultivate a peaceful mind.
3. Hitotsu, Nintai Suru Koto O Manabu Beshi - One thing, learn to be patient.
4. Hitotsu, Shojin Ni Tessu Beshi - One thing, strive hard to be a better person.
5. Hitotsu, Kokoro To Waza No Ichi Ni Tsutomu Beshi - One thing, try to develop your spirit and the techniques of karate as one.
6. Hitotsu, Karate-do No Shinjo O Seikatsu Ni Ikasu Beshi - One thing, apply the principles of karate in your daily life.
And this interesting item:
Goju-Ryu Ha Po
1. Hearts and minds are likened to the universe.
2. Blood and veins are likened to the sun and moon.
3. Everything in the universe is breathing hard and soft.
4. Meet any situation without difficulty.
5. Know your opponent's hand like your own.
6. Know your opponent's foot like your own.
7. Eyes are watching in four directions.
8. Ears are hearing in eight directions.
translated by Tetsunosuke Yasuda
Be mindful of your courtesy with humbleness.
Train yourself considering physical strength.
Study and contrive seriously.
Be calm in mind and swift in action.
Take care of yourself.
Live a plain and simple life.
Do not be too proud of yourself.
Continue training with patience and humbleness.
Jundokan International Dojo Kun
As displayed on the wall of the dojo of Sensei Teruo Chinen, in Spokane Washington. Sensei Chinen is the head of Jundokan International and was a student of Sensei Ei'ichi Miyazato at the Jundokan dojo. Changes in the translation are very minor.
Be humble and polite
Train considering your physical strength
Practice earnestly with creativity
Be calm and swift
Take care of your health
Live a plain life
Do not be too proud or modest
Continue your training with patience
Dojo Kun of International Okinawan Gojukai Federation
Work to perfect your character
Always act with good manners
Refrain from violent or uncontrolled behavior.
Cultivate a spirit of endeavor and perseverance
Have fidelity in seeking the true way
Goju-Ryu Karate-Do Kyokai
by Motoo Yamakura
Dojo Maxims
1. All of life is sacred and I will always respect the sanctity of life.
2. I will use karate only to defend myself and others and only use the amount of force necessary to preserve my life and that of others.
3. The ultimate goal of karate is to achieve balance and harmony with the universe and to realize one's fullest potential to contribute to humankind through the development of mind, body and spirit.
4. True karate practitioners will strengthen their hands to lift those who have fallen, no matter how low.
5. As a karateka I will always strive to have an open mind and realize that toleration and diversity form the seedbed where creative intelligence and genius will thrive.
6. As a karateka I will apply the lessons learned on the dojo floor to my daily life and always strive to treat every person I meet with decency and respect, irrespective of their views or positions in life.
7. As a martial artist I will strive to always be aware of what is good and what is right, and to use my skills to promote peace and respect for all of humankind.
Zenpo Shimabukuro
To Strive for the Perfection of Character
To Defend the Paths of Truth
To Foster the Spirit of Effort
To Honor the Principles of Etiquette
To Guard Against Impetuous Courage
Onaga Yoshimitsu
The heavenly, spiritual way, "the way of god".
The human, civil way.
The martial way.
The way is attained through practice not contemplation.
by Choshin Chibana
Always be serious minded in your training so as to learn from your experience and receive understanding.
Refrain from acts or words that are inconsiderate.
Be tolerant, especially of the opinion of others.
Think first so as to avoid acting rashly.
Without question, accept methods and teachings humbly and open minded. Then train hard so as to understand and assimilate these methods and teachings.
Do not brag or be verbose and above all, don't take chances.
Lead your juniors with kindness and counsel them correctly.
Remember, actions speak louder than words.
Kuda Yuichi/Kuda Tomosada
Okinawa Shorin Ryu Kobukan Karatedo
Directions on Practicing Karate
1. Those who study karate must always be polite so that they may not be selfish.
2. They must be polite not only to master and seniors, but also to fellows and juniors.
3. They must always begin and end with greetings when practicing karate kata and playing practice matches.
4. Karate kata are the base of karate. They must practice and study the kata and matches eagerly without making haste for the successful result.
5. The variety of karate skill is limitless. They must always make efforts to train the mind and improve the skill.
6. When they play practice matches, they must do their best at concentrating their attention so that the motions may be faster, stronger, and more accurate. They must not get excited in the matches.
7. They must always remember to improve the skill and study the essence of it. There is no end in practicing karate.
8. In daily life, they must always behave well. They must not be hot-blooded or quarrel with anyone.
9. They must not be self-centered because they have made progress. They will not improve the skill and their natural virtue, but will do harm to others if they are self-centered.
10. More than strength is needed in karate. The purpose of karate is not only to train the body and the mind, but also to make efforts to achieve a good personality by practicing faithfully and to be a good member of society.
Mayayoshi Kori Hisataka
Dojo Kun (School Principles)
1. Maintain propriety, etiquette, dignity and virtue.
2. Gain self-understanding by tasting the true meaning of combat.
3. Search for the pure principles of being truthful, just and normal.
4. Exercise a positive personality: confident, courageous and determined.
5. Always seek to further develop the character, by aiming towards perfection and complete harmony with creation.
Student's Creed
1. I will develop myself in a positive manner and avoid anything that could reduce my mental growth and physical health.
2. I will develop self-discipline in order to bring out the best of myself and others.
3. I will use what I learned in class constructively and defensively to help myself and others and never be abusive or offensive.
Shorinjiryu Shindo Black Belt Oath
1. I accept with honor and privilege this Black Belt in Shorinjiryu. I swear to uphold the standards of honesty, modesty, courtesy, integrity, high moral code, perseverance, courage and indomitable spirit.
2. I sincerely pledge to honor my instructor and school with loyalty and support, also to value and carry on the martial arts tradition with respect and diginity.
3. I further pledge, with humility and gratitude, to continue my mental, physical and spiritual growth to the highest level, to lead by example and to share what I have learned with others.
OKINAWAN KARATE FEDERATION
Okinawan Shorin-ryu Matsumura Seito Karate-do
Hohan Soken's Dojo Kun
1. Karate shugyosha ha tsune ni reigi tadashiku okonau koto.
2. Kata ya kumite wo enji suru baai sono zengo ha kanarazu rei ni hajimari rei ni owaru koto.
3. Renshu no sai ha kiryoku wo jujitsu shi zenryoku wo sosoge ki no nuketa renshu ha kaette jotatsu no samatage to naru.
4. Shihan sempai ha mataha gaibu sho sempai no oshie ha yoku miyoku kiite hagemineru koto ni ari wasurete ha naranai.
5. Miru kiku izuremo shinpo no ookina kagi de ari jotatsu ni shitagatte sono aji ga waite kuru mono de aru.
6. Renshu ha tatoe sukoshi zutsu demo jizoku seyo chudan suro koto ha shimpo chudan moshiku ha taiho no moto to naru.
7. Waza no honsuji wo manabe mizukara no kokoro no jotai wo mimammotte sono shimpo no kojo wo kufu seyo. Waza to kokoro to ha omote to ura to no gotoshi.
8. Boin boshoku wo tsutsushime boin boshoku ha renshu no koka wo gensai suru mono to kokoroe yo.
9. Tsune ni kojo no nen wo ushinawazu iyashikumo manzuru nakare
manshin ha karate shugyo chu ni kakari yasuki taibyo de aru.
10. Kyokugen nai no ha karate no shugyo de aru. Tsutomete yamazumba nandoki shika do ni hairan.
Rules for Karate Practice
1. Karate practitioners always conduct themselves with proper etiquette.
2. Without fail, bow to begin and bow to end when performing kata and kumite.
3. When practicing, rouse your energy and pour in all of your strength. Practice devoid of energy is all the more an obstacle to progress.
4. Watch and listen well to the teachings of yours instructor, your seniors and your seniors in the various other schools. Work hard and refine yourself, never forget Karate Shugyojo no Kokoroe (their Teachings).
5. Looking and listening are both large keys to progress. As one improves, their importance becomes more apparent.
6. Continue practice, even if a little at a time. Interruptions become an interruption or a step backward in progress.
7. Learn the essence of your technique, watch over the state of your heart and plan out their development. "Technique" and "heart" are as "omote" and "ura" (two faces of the same entity).
8. Beware of overdrinking and overeating. It is a rule that overdrinking and overeating lessen the effects of practice.
9. Never lose the thought of improvement, never slacken (your effort). Self-conceit is a serious illness easily contracted during karate practice.
10. Limitless is karate training. Work ceaselessly, and you will be surely become a Master.
Dojo Conduct
Everything in the martial arts begins and ends with courtesy. Be sure to
bow when entering and leaving the dojo. During practice always follow the directions of your instructor and seniors. Whistling, singing and the like are improper behavior in the dojo. Make the best use of your time by refraining from casual conversation
during practice. Keep busy while in the dojo. When tired, rest in a place away from the
activity of others. Show respect for seniors and elders. Treat lower ranks and juniors with
courtesy and compassion. Always have a clean uniform Always act with propriety whether in or outside the dojo
Principles of Practice
The purpose of karate training is to discipline the mind and body and to
master the art of Self Defense. A karate practitioner should be well-mannered and modest, value courtesy, always wear decent clothing, pay attention to his speech and actions and work hard at training day and night A karate practitioner must never call upon his strength in a quarrel,
speak harshly, act roughly, or become troublesome to others. A karate practitioner must never bring shame upon himself or his school in ether speech or action. A karate practitioner must never speak arrogantly, fall into laziness, or
act conceitedly. He should endeavor to work diligently at training and
improving himself. A karate practitioner should respect decorum and the martial arts,
maintain the fine traditions of karate and contribute to society.
Seikichi Odo
Dojo Kun;
Drill with your heart and body to develop good character.
Value justice above all.
Foster the spirits of your effort with continuous practice.
Respect others, be well mannered, and treat others as you would be treated.
Do not be over confident.
Seidokan
Shian Toma
Dojo Kun No Toma (Toma's Dojo Principles)
Lessons Learned in the Dojo
To endeavor to complete your personality.
To keep sincerity.
To cultivate a spirit of effort.
To respect courtesy (manners).
To rebuke hot-blooded courage (not fighting with anger).
When Should a Karate-Ka Rei?
When one enters or leaves the Dojo.
At the beginning and the end of each practice session at the command of the Sensei.
Whenever one wishes permission to leave the practice area.
Permission is given and acknowledged by the Rei between Sensei and student.
Before starting practice with another student or with Sensei.
When accidental contact is made by you against your training partner.
Whenever directly spoken to by the Sensei.
Dojo Etiquette (Do's and Don'ts in the Dojo)
Junior students should insure that the Dojo is clean and in proper order both before and after training sessions.
No chewing gum, eating. smoking, or drinking (except water) during training sessions.
No wearing of jewelrv (including wedding bands) during training sessions. It's a safety hazard!
No "Horse Play" and no profanity while in the Dojo.
Senior students must insure that Dojo etiquette is observed at all times.
While in the Dojo, the Instructor should be referred to as "Sensei" only.
Senior students should consider it a duty and obligation to assist junior students.
Remove shoes before entering training area.
Spectators are not to be allowed in the training area/Dojo without the Sensei's permission.
A senior student should greet all visitors and ascertain their desires prior to bringing them to the attention of the Sensei.The Sensei will relay his permission, or non-permission through the senior student.
No Kumite is allowed without the Sensei's permission, which must be sought prior to engaging in such.
Karate uniforms will be white in color. No colored uniforms. No ornate stripes on uniform.
Patches are discouraged. If worn, no more than two are authorized (left breast and/or right upper sleeve). A conservative appearance is encouraged.
Patches, if worn, will be either SEIDOKAN, ZEN RYUKYU KARATE KOBUDO RENGOKAI, GO-TEN-TE ("Palace Hand") or Dojo patches. No "store bought" patches. Seek to impress by your technique and character, and not by looking like a walking billboard.
Shito-Ryu Dojo Kun
Dojo Kun 1
Seek Perfection of Character
Be Faithful
Endeavour to strive to attain Perfection
Respect Others
Refrain from Violent Behaviour
Dojo Kun 2
by Kenwa Mabuni
Never forget the spirit of first beginnings (Will/Determination)
Never neglect courtesy and etiquette (Moral Virtue)
Never neglect effort (Growth/Development)
Never lose common sense (Common Sense)
Never disturb harmony (Peace)
Dojo Kun 3
Be courteous in your manners
Have a strong sense of justice
Be responsible for your words and actions
Respect one another
Karate-Do is the way of the spirit to give you courage and ambition to reach you goals as part of your life
Be courteous.
Keep the heart pure and the fist sacred.
Refrain from inappropriate speech and conduct.
Trust one another and create harmony.
Maintain the spirit along the road to perfection.
Dojo Kun
Be moderate and courteous.
Be righteous and have a strong sense of justice.
Be modest in your words and actions.
Respect others.
Karatedo is a life-time study.
by Kenwa Mabuni
Go Do Shin
Kenwa Mabuni
Hitotsu- Ishi. Shoshin wasureru nakare.
Hitotsu- Do toku. Reigi otokaru nakare.
Hitotsu- Htten. Doryoku okataru nakare.
Hitotsu. Jo shiki. Jo shiki kakeru nakare.
Hitotsu- Heiwa. Wa midasu nakare.
Shito-ryu's Five-way spirit
Kenwa Mabuni
One- Determination. Never forget the spirit of first beginning.
One- Morality. Never neglect courtesy and etiquette.
One- Development. Never neglect effort.
One- Common sense. Never lose common sense.
One- Peace. Never disturb harmony.
Dojo Kun
...The Dojo Kun are the rules of the Dojo that have been passed down from Okinawan Karate mastersto the presents.
Hitotsu- Jinkaku kansei ni tsuto nuru koto
Hitotsu- Makoto no michi o mamoru koto
Hitotsu- Do ryoku no seishin o yashinau koto
Hitotsu- Rei gi o omonzuru koto
Hitotsu- Kekki no you o imashi muru koto
One- Seek perfection of character.
One- Be faithful.
One- Endeavor to excel.
One- Respect others.
One- Refrain from violent behavior.
Ryukyu Kempo Taika Oyata
TO STRIVE for good moral character
TO KEEP an honest and sincere way
TO CULTIVATE perserverance or a will for striving
TO DEVELOP a respectful attitude
TO RESTRAIN your physical ability through spiritual attainment
This is written to give the student a better understanding of the Dojo Kun.
Character
Making correct moral decisions and having both physical and mental courage; of the two, moral courage is the more important.
Sincerity
Being true to yourself and the other members of the dojo. It is a student's commitment to train hard and a teacher's commitment to teach well. The martial arts are a serious endeavor.
Effort
To train hard at all times. It is not fair to yourself, your sensei or the other dojo members to give less than your best effort.
Etiquette
The proper social behavior towards your teachers, your seniors and your juniors.
Self-control
keeping your fighting spirit in check so that you do not injure your training partners. It is also controlling all your emotions, particularly anger. Emotions must not take charge in one's private life outside the Dojo.
Ryuei Ryu Kenko Nakaima
To seek to attain perfection of character.
To live with politeness and discipline.
To honor a code of ethical behavior.
To strive for excellence through efforts.
To refrain from impetuous conduct.
Ossu
Wado-Ryu
Tatsuo Suzuki
Reisetsu O Mamori (Stick to the rules).
In the dojo good etiquette must be observed by the following rules.
Shingi O Omanji (A student must have loyalty to his instructor).
This is the most important thing in Martial Arts. It is not possible for someone to change his style in Japanese Martial Arts - people who do so cannot learn the correct etiquette and spirit of Martial Arts.
Jojitsu Ni Oberezu (Teachers and students are not all one).
Outside the Dojo you can be friendly with your Sensei but do not take advantage of this friendship.
Shinkenmi Ni Tesseyo (Be serious in your efforts).
No flippancy, chattering, smoking, gum chewing, eating or drinking in the Dojo. Concentrate solely on Karate and train hard in everything you do. The dojo is not a social gathering hall and visitors as well as students shall respect the rules and Maxims.
Hironori Ohtsuka
The Dojo Kun -- Our Code of Conduct
Wado- Ryu Dojo Kun
For those of us truly devoted to the study and art of Wado, the words
that follow are much more than just words. They form the core of
reasoning and foundation of attitudes; not merely as karateka, but as
responsible citizens of our world, and compassionate human beings. They are -- in truth, our Code of Conduct -- our Way of Life. The Dojo Kun.
Mokuteki (Purpose)
The purpose of the Wado system of karate, the International Wado Ryu Karatedo Renmei, The All Japan Karatedo Federation, and at any Dojo affiliated with these bodies, is to teach the Japanese Martial Arts, their spiritual attitudes, traditions and culture. Sonkei (Reverence)
Revere that which is Holy. Honor your Father and Mother. Respect your elders and other person's property and rights.
Kansha (Thankfulness)
Be thankful for all things; your life, friendships and love. Gratefulness will bring happiness.
Shuyo (Discipline)
Discipline your mind and body so that you have absolute control over both. Only a disciplined person can attain his or her goals in life.
Makota (Sincerity)
A person's character will be judged by their sincerity and integrity. Only one who is sincere should be worthy of your friendship and trust.
Toitsu (Unity)
Unity of one's mind, body and spirit in all endeavors are essential to one's success. Concentrate on one thing at a given time.
Enshin Karatedo
Joko Ninomiya
Dojo Kun (Training Hall Oath)
1. We will always be courteous and show respect to others.
2. We will strive to be our best and pursue it with patience.
3. We will develop the mind and body to enhance the spirit.
4. We will always keep an open heart and mind.
5. We will accept the spirit of challenge.
6. We will follow the meaning of Enshin in both our training and our daily lives.
Osu!
Japan Karate-Do Ryobu-Kai
Yasuhiro Konishi
Code of Conduct
I will obey all JKR published rules, regulations and procedures.
I will conform to the appropriate dress codes and always maintain the highest standards of conduct.
I will obey all state and national laws, as well as the host country laws during visits abroad.
I will conduct myself in a manner that will favorably reflect on the image of JKR.
I will attend or dispatch my official representative to all designated official functions of JKR.
I will do my utmost to further my knowledge and abilities through JKR and the national governing body for karate.
I will refrain from disparaging or personal remarks about JKR and members of JKR in public.
I will do my utmost to promote the general welfare of JKR.
I will strive to use common courtesy in all personal contacts.
I will follow proper hierarchical protocol as appropriate.
Ashihara Karate
Hideyuki Ashihara (Ashiwara),
We will always be courteous.
We will make the best of our endeavors.
We will continue to improve our spirit and technique.
We will maintain a challenging spirit.
We will reflect on ourselves today, and strive to improve ourselves for tomorrow.
We will pursue karate as a means to know the way of life itself.
IAIDO
MUSO JIKIDEN EISHIN-RYU IAIDO KENPO GOKUI AND KUN
(contributed by Dr. John Gagnon)
1. Know yourself.
2. Always follow through on commitments.
3. Respect everyone.
4. Hold stong convictions that cannot be altered by your circumstances.
5. Don't make an enemy of yourself.
6. Live without regrets.
7. Be certain to make a good first impression.
8. Don't cling to the past.
9. Never break a promise.
10. Don't depend on other people for that which is already within yourself.
11. Don't speak ill of others.
12. Don't be afraid of anything, even to die.
13. Respect the opinions of others.
14. Have compassion and understanding of everyone.
15. Don't be impetuous.
16. Even little things must be attended to.
17. Never forget to be appreciative.
18. Be first to seize the opportunity.
19. Make a desperate [unyielding] effort.
20. Have a plan for your life but live in this moment.
21. Never lose your “Beginner's Spirit.”
Kendo
Some DOJO have a set of mottos or songs to remind students of the important things; these mottos or important teachings are posted or written on the towel (TENUGUI, HACHIMAKI)
Example: DOJO KUN of KOUBUKAN DOJO (originally in Saitama Prefecture, now in Tokyo), Takashi Ozawa HANSHI 9-DAN:
Let's train our bodies
Let's purify our hearts
Let's take care of our parents
Let's value respect and courtesy
Let's work for the people and the world
Dojo-Kun-Jukajo
When entering and leaving the dojo make a reverend bow
Do not enter the dojo untidily dressed, if dressed in Japanese style a hakama should be worn.
Maintain a respectful attitude and the most correct posture
Be quiet and conscientious, do not engage in noisy chatter, laughter, clapping or cheering.
After eating allow a suitable amount of time to elapse before training.
If you have taken alcohol do not enter the dojo let alone engage in training.
The sword is ones soul, the bougu is ones armour, handle them with respect according to the correct method.
The dojo interior must be cleaned morning and evening and kept tidy.
Do not comment on other styles of swordsmanship or in each other's technique.
For those who are training in swordsmanship take caution against shortness of temper or selfishness, do not be quarrelsome but always remain serene of heart.
Judo
by Kyuzo Mifune
Essential Principles of Judo
Pliable action of mind and physique surpass stiffening and sturdiness.
To display best vitality in the worst plight.
To be careless is equal to lack of fixed principle.
Never stick to a fixed idea, but be in a self-annihilating state.
Never despise trifles but keep faithful mind.
Rules of the Dojo
by Kyuzo Mifune
"To master an actual technique, mental culture should come first.
Acquiring a technique requires a careful, modest, non-mean, free and attentive mind.
In other words a player should do his utmost and nothing less."
.....Kyuzo Mifune
Have no falsehood in mind
Do not lose self-confidence
Keep your balance
Utilize your strength efficiently.
Don't discontinue training.
Keep yourself humble.
For any of you who are interested in reading more on the 'Dojo Kun' and ethics in the martial arts, there is a fine article here:
I was going to end this with one that I found from Genbukan Ninjitsu. It was really 'special' ,but my computer has a case of the hiccups and often wonders off in the middle of conversations, so I don't have the link anymore. Instead I'll leave you with something that, while it is not a Dojo Kun, should be.
The Desiderata
by Max Ehrmann 1927
Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there
may be in silence.
As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexatious to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals, and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself.
Especially do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love, for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be.
And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life,
keep peace in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
This entire contribution is mostly the work of Charles Boyd but has been edited and added to by members of the Isshinkai Online Group, Sensei John Gagnon and also Michael Garrett (World Oyama Karatedo)
Anyone wishing to reach
Sensei Charles Boyd
may do so as follows:
Facilities Manager, SAMRC
Mount Royal College Isshin-Ryu Karate and Kobudo
Calgary Alberta Canada
Office(403)240-6772-Home(403)686-4022
