Rumoured to have been created by Kanga Sakukawa, an 18th-century Okinawan karate proponent.
The five guiding principles, recited at the end of each training session in most styles, intended to frame the practice within an ethical context.
- Seek Perfection of Character
(To strive for the perfection of character)
Hitotsu! Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomuru koto.
人格 完成に 努める こと - Be Faithful
(To protect/defend the paths of truth)
Hitotsu! Makato no michi o mamoru koto.
誠の道を守ること
- Endeavor to excel.
(To foster the spirit of effort)
Hitotsu! Doryoku no seishin o yashinau koto.
努力の精神を養うこと - Respect others
(To honor the principles of etiquette)
Hitotsu! Reigi o omonsuru koto.
礼儀を重んずること
- Refrain from violent behavior
(To guard against impetuous courage)
Hitotsu! Kekki no yu o imashimuru koto.
血気の勇を戒むること