(The Twenty Precepts of Gichin Funakoshi - Calligraphy by Shinkin Gima)

The Dojo Kun

The 'Dojo Kun' are the fundamental rules of the Dojo. Though not always recited in the current age of Karate, in places such as the JKA in Tokyo, the rules are recited at the end of every training session by the highest-grade student, echoed by the other students.

The word of the Dojo Kun are as thus:

一、人格 完成に 努める こと
hitotsu, jinkaku kansei ni tsutomeru koto
Each person must refrain from violent behaviour (guard against impetuous courage).

一、誠の道を守ること
hitotsu, makoto no michi wo mamoru koto
Each person must respect others and the rules of etiquette.

一、努力の精神を養うこと
hitotsu, doryoku no seishin wo yashinau koto
Each person must endeavor (fostering the spirit of effort).

一、礼儀を重んずること
hitotsu, reigi wo omonzuru koto
Each person must be faithful and protect the way of truth.

一、血気の勇を戒むること
hitotsu, kekki no yū wo imashimuru koto
Each person must strive for the completion and perfection of one's character.

Share by: