The dojo kun is intended to frame the practice within an ethical context.
Generally credited to Gichin Funakoshi, the Shotokan Karate “dojo kun” serves as a set of five guiding principles, recited at the start/end of each training session in most Shotokan organizations.
The five rules are shown below. Note that “hitotsu” in Japanese means “one” or in a slang way, “firstly.” So when the dojo kun is recited in Japanese, “hitotsu” said before each principle is meant to show that they are all of equal importance.
Seek perfection of character
一、人格 完成に 努める こと
hitotsu, jinkaku kansei ni tsutomeru koto
jinkaku = personality, kansei = complete (perfect), ni = to, tsutomeru = endeavour
This is the ultimate goal of karate. To accomplish it, you must apply your training to your life. When training, always follow proper principles. Emphasise not only physical improvement but also mental improvement. If you follow proper principles, you acquire experience that you can apply to everything else. The following four rules are necessary to show how to accomplish the overall goal.
Be faithful
一、誠の道を守ること
hitotsu, makoto no michi o mamoru koto
makoto = truth, no = ‘s, michi = path, o = with respect to that, mamoru = defend
Keep to the proper direction. Keep on track. The seeking of truth and fairness is equivalent to seeking the essence of character. Proper technique and action must be based on proper thinking. Develop yourself inside; don't worry about appearances; be true to yourself. As for your attitude and performance, have an open mind, be humble, and never forget your responsibilities based on your rank. Technique and character reflect the image of Karate-Do.
Endeavor
一、努力の精神を養うこと
hitotsu, doryoku no seishin o yashinau koto
doryoku = effort, no = ’s, seishin = spirit, o = with respect to that, yashinau = cultivate
Maintain constant effort. "Practice doesn't make perfection; Correct Practice makes perfection". Hard work underlies the improvement principle. - "No Pain, No Gain". Seek extra stimulation for extra improvement. Seek more profound and higher levels of understanding. Overcome your weakness and learn self-control. Learn your limitations. The quality of the process is essential, not only the result. Continuous effort is power. Be patient, only want a little, and do everything step by step.
Respect others
一、礼儀を重んずること
hitotsu, reigi o omonzuru koto
reigi = courtesy, o = with respect to that, omonzuru = honor
Live together and improve together. We benefit from cooperation. Group spirit helps the individual keep going. Cooperation means training each other. The bow symbolises respect - it strengthens relationships, controls selfishness, and doesn't get a big head. Respect other dojos and systems - everyone benefits from mutual respect and cooperation
Refrain from violent behavior
一、血気の勇を戒むること
hitotsu, kekki no yū o imashimuru koto
kekki = vigor (impetuousness), no = of, yu = courage, o = with respect to that, imashimuru = refrain
Show Confidence. Learn Self Control and proper application of energy. Control a hot temper, a person of character can walk away from a fight because he is in control of his emotions and is at peace with himself.
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