The Way of the Warrior

What is Bushido?

In Wado Ki Karate when a student has displayed outstanding character, they are awarded a very special patch to be worn across the left breast of their gi. On the patch are two katana swords that form the entrance to a Shinto Shrine and the word Bushido with the corresponding characters embroidered on it.

The concept of Bushido, or “the way of the warrior”, was largely introduced to the world outside of Japan by the 1899 publication Bushido: The Soul of Japan written by Nitobe Inazō. It was one of the first western books written in English to focus on samurai ethics and Japanese culture.

The moral code presented in the book is very loosely comparable to the western ideal of chivalry. Bushido and its many types have evolved over the course of history.  The contemporary usage is as an all encompassing term for the moral codes, practices, philosophies and principles of samurai culture. Although through historical development, religious influences and personal interpretations, these ethics have been applied in various ways throughout the years – Inazō outlined a common set of virtues to typify the bushido code:

• JUSTICE
• COURAGE
• BENEVOLENCE
• POLITENESS
• TRUTHFULNESS
• HONOR
• LOYALTY
• SELF CONTROL

This code may be especially useful in our current world – Be a good person. Treat people well and with respect. Carry yourself with dignity and poise and stand up for what’s right.

Recommended Reading:

For tips on how to further apply the code to your modern life check out:
The History of the Bushido Code: Principles of Samurai Culture

You can purchase Inazō’s  book here:
Bushido: The Soul of Japan written by Nitobe Inazō

How will you apply the principles of Bushido in your daily life? Let me know on the Professional Karate Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/wadokikarate

-Sensei Mike