The Samurai Virtues
The collection of ideals that make up what we now know as the Code of Bushido are called the Samurai Virtues. You will find references to "The Five Samurai Virtues", "The Seven Samurai Virtues", and "The Eight Samurai Virtues." In addition, Japanese society already had a general set of common virtues: loyalty, justice (piety), compassion, honor, and respect.
In general, Japanese warrior standards related to frugality, loyalty, mastery of martial arts, and honor to the death, but each clan developed its own set of standards. In the "Classics" sections, you will find writings from various clan leaders giving their thoughts on how their clan warriors and leaders should conduct themselves. These writings were meant to be kept within the clan and passed on through generations, but eventually they were shared with the wider world.
The Hagakure is the most famous example of a clan writing. It and the Bushido Shoshinshu of Taira Shigesuke established the framework for what we now refer to simply as "The Code of Bushido".
In general, Japanese warrior standards related to frugality, loyalty, mastery of martial arts, and honor to the death, but each clan developed its own set of standards. In the "Classics" sections, you will find writings from various clan leaders giving their thoughts on how their clan warriors and leaders should conduct themselves. These writings were meant to be kept within the clan and passed on through generations, but eventually they were shared with the wider world.
The Hagakure is the most famous example of a clan writing. It and the Bushido Shoshinshu of Taira Shigesuke established the framework for what we now refer to simply as "The Code of Bushido".
The list of virtues
Following is a list of twelve virtues that are mentioned in the various sources:
gi : rectitude, justice
yuu: courage, bravery
jin: benevolence
rei: politness, ettiquette
makato: honesty
shin: sincerity
meiyo: honor
chu: loyalty
kokki: self-control
chi: wisdom
koh: filial piety
tei: care for the aged
Page updated 07/07/2014
gi : rectitude, justice
yuu: courage, bravery
jin: benevolence
rei: politness, ettiquette
makato: honesty
shin: sincerity
meiyo: honor
chu: loyalty
kokki: self-control
chi: wisdom
koh: filial piety
tei: care for the aged
Page updated 07/07/2014