Bushido Values
The Seven Virtues of the Bushido Warrior is a code of conduct followed by traditional samurai warriors. These virtues formed the physical and mental content of the warriors' training.
The bushido
virtues not only applied to their physical training, but flowed on into their
every day lives, molding the warrior into a military and social elite.
Of course, these virtues were not adhered to immediately once a new student
starts, but they were progressively adopted by the student as time went by. As
the student reaches towards the distinguished rank of black belt (yudansha) and beyond, the
virtues become more significant.
Virtue No. 1. “Gi” The right decision, fair and equal. Gi is the ability to make
the correct decisions with confidence, to be fair and equal towards all
people no matter what colour, race, gender or age. This virtue is the ability
to make a decision, respecting all equally. Virtue No. 2 “Yu” Valour & Courage. Yu is created as the
student progresses in rank and their skills become more fluent and based on
reflex. The student gains confidence in themselves to know they can handle
any situation that presents itself. This Virtue is the
ability to handle any situation. Virtue No. 3 “Jin” Benevolence, Compassion
& Generosity Jin is the humble virtue
where the student is discouraged from using their new founded skills for
bigotry and domination. This virtue works together with “Gi”. This Virtue is to prevent
arrogance with in one’s self. Virtue No. 4 “Rei” The Proper
Behaviour, Courtesy & Respect This virtue makes the
student aware of the principle of the Ying and Yang, one cannot exist with
out the other. The teacher cannot be a teacher without a student, therefore
both are equal in there own right. This virtue is to have
respect for all. Virtue No. 5 “Makoto” Honesty, Honourable &
Moral This virtue is best
described as “one must be honest to ones self before they can be honest with
anyone else”. Cheating and lying is an acceptance of failure and creates a
false environment for the student. This virtue means to do
things to the best of our ability. Virtue No. 6 “Meiyo” Success, Honour and
Glory. This virtue follows the
student as they become better within themselves. Honour, Success and Glory
follow a positive attitude. This virtue is sought
after, but only follows correct behaviour.
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Virtue No. 7 “Chungi”
Devotion and Loyalty, Dedicated This virtue is the
foundation of all the virtues, without dedication and loyalty
to the task at hand,
the desired outcome cannot be achieved.
This virtue supports
all success.
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