GI: Righteousness and Rectitude Moral conduct is the foundation of conduct. This includes right action, honesty, with a strong belief in justice for all people. All points of view are deeply considered.
REI: Respect Warriors are eminently courteous, even towards their enemies. Respect of the samurai is an attitude of honour and admiration with no need to prove their power. The true strength of a warrior becomes apparent during difficult times.
YU: Heroic Courage Courage is not blind, it is intelligent and strong. While always remaining cautious and on point, the warrior is not easily intimidated.
MEIYO: Honor The samurai moves with honor and grace. Decisions are carried out with accountability. The warriors have only one judge: themselves. In the way of the samurai, you cannot hide from your own actions.
JIN: Compassion Through intense training the warrior becomes quick and strong, but this power must be used for good. Helping the fellow man and practicing compassion is a virtue. If an opportunity does not arise, they go out of their way to find a way to make positive impact.
MAKOTO: Honesty and Sincerity In the way of the warrior, speaking and doing are the same action. Nothing will stop the warrior from sticking to their word while taking action from a place of sincere truth.
CHU: Duty and Loyalty The warrior practices unconditional loyalty and trust towards others. This unwavering conduct of faith is a core belief in ethics of merit, loyalty, and fidelity towards fellow beings.
The seven virtues of bushido were originally practiced to achieve the highest levels of self-discipline and performance. These principles evolved into the code of the samurai and maintain a strong place at the core of Japanese philosophy and culture.
For many of us today, attaining full capacity of even one of these virtues could be a challenge. Engrained in history and preserved through time, the spiritual warrior of the modern era can use these principles as a daily mantra, or a guiding light for everyday moral conduct.
The development of the seven virtues of bushido translate into clarity, power, and vitality that can be carried into all aspects of life. A path of pure strength and mental fortitude in the face of modern challenge.