Dojo Kun
The “Dojo Kun” (translated as the Dojo Vow, the Dojo Motto, or the Dojo Oath) is recited at the end of all class sessions. The students all line up in rank order, formally bow (“Rei”) to the front (“Shomen”), then sit in seated position “Seiza”. After meditating “Mokuso” on the class for a few minutes, the most senior Senpai will recite each line at a time; the whole class repeats each line back.
More advanced classes will first recite the Dojo Kun in Japanese, followed by English. Beginning classes will recite the Dojo Kun in English only. The most important part is to understand each line. The Dojo Kun embodies everything we are trying to achieve through the physical effort of Karate training.
Seek Perfection of Character!
Hitotsu! Jinkaku Kansei ni Tsutomuru Koto.
Be Faithful!
Hitotsu! Makoto no Michi O Mamoru Koto.
Endeavor!
Hitotsu! Doryoku no Seishin O Yashinau Koto.
Respect Others!
Hitotsu! Reigi O Omonzuru Koto.
Refrain from Violent Behavior!
Hitotsu! Kekki No Yu O Imashimuru Koto.
After reciting the Dojo Kun, the class will bow from the seated position to the front (“Shomen-ni Rei”), and to Sensei (“Sensei-ni Rei”).
* Some people, for medical reasons, are unable to sit in Seiza. These students must talk to the instructor “Sensei” or senior student “Senpai” before class to get instructions for how to stand during Mokuso.