A basic definition of a dojo kun is fairly straightforward in the world of martial arts and self defense. However, there are different ways in which that straightforward definition is applied. This is something that should be taken into account. It’s certainly something you’re going to discover, as you learn about the various forms of dojo kun that exist in karate and elsewhere.
Simply put, dojo kun literally translates to the rules of the training room. Dojo-kun will refer to the rules that exist for a particular dojo. The rules for the dojo or training room may vary from one style or discipline to another. This is also something that should be taken into account.
History and background of Dojo Kun
As you can imagine, this “rules concept” is old. Naturally, for as long as there have been dojos and training rooms for the arts of self-defense and martial arts, there have been rules governing the behavior of everyone who walks through the front door.
These rules, in essence, describe the behavior of a practitioner. Some schools even make it a point to have all attendees recite the rules of the dojo or training room at the end of a training session.
Specifically in karate, the Shotokan Karate dojo kun is generally attributed to Gichin Funakoshi. However, rumors persist that 18th century Okinawan karate figure Kanga Sakukawa actually created the 5 guiding principles found in this area. Most styles use this dojo kun at the end of a session, to emphasize the moral and spiritual principles that drive the physical aspects of training.
If you review those five rules or principles, you’ll notice that the word “hitotsu” begins each one of them. There is a reason for that. The word means “first” or “one”, and is designed to ensure that all rules are held in the same esteem. With the rules of Shotokan Karate, it is important that students understand that no rule is more important than the other.
The English version of the Shotokan Karate rules offers a clear translation of the values ​​mentioned in the 5 guiding principles. A practitioner will strive to complete and perfect his character, avoid violent behavior, respect others, and more. There is also a considerably shortened version that is used by the ISKF and JKA.
The bottom line
The dojo kun is an essential part of learning any style of martial arts or self defense arts.