What is Dojo Kun?

A basic definition of dojo kun is pretty straightforward in the world of martial arts and self defense. However, there are different ways in which that simple definition is applied. This is something to keep in mind. It is certainly something that you will discover as you learn the various forms of dojo kun that exist in karate and elsewhere.

Simply put, dojo kun literally translates to training room rules. Dojo kun will refer to the current rules 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 to be aware of.

History and background of the Dojo Kun

As you can imagine, this “concept of rules” is old. Naturally, while there have been dojos and training halls for self defense and martial arts, there have been rules to govern the behavior of everyone who walks through the front doors.

These rules, in essence, describe the behavior of a practitioner. Some schools even 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 continue that the 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 will notice that the word “hitotsu” begins each of them. There’s 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 Shotokan Karate rules, it is important for students to 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 hone his character, avoid violent behavior, respect others, and more. There is also a considerably shortened version used by ISKF and JKA.

The bottom line

The dojo kun is an essential part of learning any style of martial arts or self defense arts.