Dojo Kun
The Dojo Kun consists of five guiding principles that govern the philosophical teachings of Karate. The Japanese word Dojo can be poetically translated into English as "A place of the way" or "A place to follow the way". The "Way" of Karate is defined as our own personal journey into the world of Karate. The Japanese word Kun can be simply translated as "Teachings".
Customarily the Dojo Kun is recited at the conclusion of a group training session. Reciting the Dojo Kun is the practitioners verbal affirmation to pursue a more refined and dignified charachter.
Regrettably the generally accepted English version of the Dojo Kun used in most Dojo has been insufficiently translated from Japanese. Even more disheartening is that most instructors today only have a superficial understanding of the Dojo Kun themselves. This ambiguous translation will lead to only a cursory understanding of the Dojo Kun and its deeper meaning. Presented below is the Japanese version of the Dojo Kun, and a more accurately translated English version.
Dojo Kun
(Japanese Version)
Hitotsu! Jinkaku Kansei Ni Tsutomuru Koto!
Hitotsu! Makoto No Michi O Mamoru Koto!
Hitotsu! Doryoku No Seishi O Yashinau Koto!
Hitotsu! Reigi O Omonzuru Koto!
Hitotsu! Kekki No Yu O Imashimuru Koto!
Dojo Kun
(English Version)
One! To strive for the perfection of charachter!
One! To defend the path of truth!
One! To cultivate the spirit of perseverance!
One! To honor the principles of etiquette!
One! To guard against impetuous courage!
