Shotokan Philosophy
The Dojo Kun lists five philosophical rules for training in the dojo; seek perfection of character, be faithful, endeavor to excel, respect others, and refrain from violent behavior. The Dojo Kun is recited at the beginning and end of each class to provide motivation and a context for further training.
In addition to the Dojo Kun, Master Funakoshi laid out the Twenty Precepts of Karate, (or Niju kun) which form the foundations of the art. Within these twenty principles, based heavily on Bushido and Zen, lies the philosophy of Shotokan. The principles allude to notions of humility, respect, compassion, patience, and both an inward and outward calmness. It was Funakoshi's belief that through karate practice and observation of these 20 principles, the karate-ka would improve their person.
