The Dojo Kun
It is thought that Nakayama Masatoshi and Nishiyama Hidetaka, masters at the Japan Karate Association (JKA) wrote the 'Dojo Kun' in the form shown below.
The Japanese word ‘Hitotsu' translates to ‘one' or ‘first'. Therefore the ‘Kun' all have equal importance, forming the rules of one's attitude towards Shotokan training within the dojo and, equally to daily life.
Dojo Kun
Hitotsu, jinkaku kansei ni tsutomeru koto.
One, to seek the perfection of character.
Hitotsu, makoto no michi o mamoru koto.
One, to keep the path of truth.
Hitotsu, doryoku no seishin o yashinau koto.
One, to cultivate the spirit of effort.
Hitotsu, reigi o omonzuru koto.
One, to esteem etiquette.
Hitotsu, kekki no yu o imashimuru koto.
One, to admonish brute courage.