“人格完成に努むること” “Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomuru koto” “Strive towards a full, complete character”.

Often translated as “seek perfection of character”, a more relevant interpretation for our needs would be to seek, not unattainable perfection, but a “full”, “whole”, or “well-rounded” character. We should be striving towards a certain knowingness in all things. Funakoshi sensei suggested that we look for karate lessons in everything. Therefore, all forms of martial art, and certainly all methods of karate-dō, must be observed deeply, to help develop our discernment and understanding of the whole karate puzzle. A true master must experience and learn from as many facets of life as possible. In time, along the path towards technical mastery, one will also acquire wisdom.

“誠の道を守ること” “Makoto no michi o mamoru koto” “Defend your path of truth”.

There are various ways of translating “makoto” (誠): truth; sincerity; honesty and integrity are all contained within this one word. This is why Makoto is a common name in Japan. This precept, the second of five, is not about simply being loyal (as some translations put it) to something specific like your teacher or your dōjō, it is about recognising your path in life, and being true to yourself. The character “michi” (道) can be read as “dō”, as in karate-dō or aikidō, and this is an indication of its importance. It elevates our commitment to an actual raison d’être. Choosing your path in life and living according to your sincere beliefs, and defending those beliefs, is encapsulated here.

“努力の精神を養うこと” “Doryoku no seishin o yashinau koto” “Cultivate the spirit of perseverance”.

There can be no shortcuts in the practice of Karate-dō and the clichés of peeling away the layers to gain insight into the whys and wherefores of technique are true. The word “yashinau” (養う) contains aspects of fostering and nurturing, indicating that without them, one’s Karate-dō can easily lose its urgency. Funakoshi sensei wrote: “Karate-dō, like boiling water, needs continual heat or it returns to a tepid state”. One’s daily practice should, therefore, be constant and ritualistic. Miyamoto Musashi, the great swordsman, said it should be relentless. Perseverance to this degree, requires such diligent, relentless cultivation, and only then will you reap what you sow.

“礼儀を重んずること” “Reigi o omonzuru koto” “Honour the principles of etiquette”.

In the dōjō we are simulating the urgency of combat. Through the rituals of kihon, kata and kumite we are engaged in a virtual struggle of life and death, and we cannot risk our emotions ruling us. When we bow to our partner, a correct “rei” (“礼”), while saying "osu", expresses meaning and respect to whomever our partner may be. Wrapped up in this “reigi” are: propriety, good manners, consideration, and hierarchy; when to speak and when not to speak; and knowing one’s place within the dojo. Only through total consideration can we anticipate the needs of our seniors, and being able to do the same with our opponents has obvious advantages in any conflict. It is crucial for us to remember that these values exist at the root of all martial arts, and we should not sever the thread that ultimately connects us right back to the battlefield.

血気の勇を戒むること” “Kekki no yū o imashimuru koto” “Guard against impetuous courage”.

Karate practice can be extremely stimulating and exciting. Occasionally, we can feel our technique become crisp and strong, and we experience the thrill of danger. We must, therefore, be disciplined enough to rein ourselves in, remembering always that with power comes responsibility. Karate-dō is part of the budō world, and “bu” (武) means not just chivalry, but also, stopping conflict. Becoming aggressive through the practice of karate is entirely the opposite of this concept. Shotokan karate-dō training may give you the tools to be courageous, but during class you must watch yourself, and have the objectivity to behave with humility. “Kekki” (血気) literally means “energetic blood” and knowing where and when to appropriately channel that energy is crucial.