Most people are familiar with the dojo kun – the ethics or guiding principals for students of traditional dojos. Within IOGKF, the English version of the dojo kun (below) are pretty well known and some clubs even recite them at the end of each class.

1. Respect others 

1. Be courageous

1. Train your mind and body 

1. Practice daily and protect traditional karate

1. Strive to reach the essence of Goju-Ryu

1. Never give up

But, when I first heard Higaonna Sensei read out the Japanese version one night, I was surprised by how much longer it seemed and I couldn’t help wondering if a little something hadn’t been lost in translation. Sensei was kind enough to let me make a photocopy (pictured above) and in my rather limited Japanese I’ve tried to come up with a bit of a translation. (I would however, love any input if there are some native Japanese speakers out there).

Hitotsu - Reigi O Omon Zuru Koto
Be respectful towards others and always act with honor and good manners

Hitotsu - Shinshin No Renma Ni Hakemu Koto.
Seek to develop/improve the mind and body through practice

Hitotsu – Hibi No Tanren O Okotarazu Dentou Karate O Mamoru Koto. Through disciplined daily training, strive to carefully protect/guard traditional karate

Hitotsu – Goju Ryu Karate-Do No Shin Zui O Kiwa Suru Koto.
Aim to research and master the true core/essence of Goju Ryu Karate-Do

Hitotsu – Futoufukutsu No Seishin O Yashinauro Koto.
Strive to cultivate a courageous, unyielding and indomitable spirit.

The Japanese certainly is a mouthful but there is something nice about the original version.

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