Bushido

The Way of the Warrior
The Essence of Bushido ~Its Seven Virtues

Justice
A compelling belief of bushido – if not the most cogent. Plainly stated, it is a knowledge of what is right and what is wrong. The talent and skills of the bushi in action could not be employed without a sense of justice.

Courage
The tempering influence upon the precepts of justice. It is an integration of moral and physical courage – not simply bravery. Courage is based on serenity and experience.

Benevolence
It is a composite of magnanimity, affection, love, pity, and sympathy. Benevolence is seasoned with justice and tempered by right reason so as not to be taken as weakness.

Courtesy
A prime source of courage and its highest form approaches ‘love’ thus relating it to loyalty. Courtesy disciplines the soul and brings a refined harmony of mind and body.

Veracity
‘Truthfulness’ and the twin brother of justice. This precept gave rise to the expression,“Bushi no ichi-gon”, implying that written pledges were unnecessary because the word of the warrior was sufficient.

Honor
This is exemplified by the ‘bushi’ in his high regard for his life, family, country, and undying sense of what is right and wrong.

Loyalty
A philosophy of life – the idea of fidelity and allegiance to a lord, leader, or cause.
“Bushi No Nasake” meaning the “tenderness of a warrior”. This saying applies all the virtues of bushido

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