Some points of precepts modern Western man is not able to understand and accept. But we don’t need to. We are not samurai. However, much of this code is relevant for everyone and will always work. The philosophy of bushido and its precepts help to become wise, strong, ready for everything – physically and spiritually.
A bit of history
The unspoken code of conduct of Japanese samurai began to form in the XII century. It was passed from mouth to mouth, with some additions. With the development of history and civilization, unwritten rules were formed into something complete – the code of bushido. The literal translation from Japanese is “the way of the warrior”. This happened by the 16th century.
Naturally, the code mostly described the rules of behavior during battles and the observance of hierarchy. Nevertheless, it also covers more “general” moments. For samurai it was important to observe discipline, to watch the appearance, to constantly study, read and engage in physical activity. We suggest that we turn to this part of the rules.
Today there are different interpretations of bushido. One of the best books describing its principles is considered to be Yamamoto Tsuneto’s work “Hagakure. Hidden in the foliage. The Samurai Code of Honor.” He will be our heater.
Instructions from bushido
About internal attitudes
Give up foolish habits and selfishness.
Samurai were instructed to avoid narcissism and thoughts of their own good in difficult situations. Only by acting together, thinking of others and evaluating the consequences of words and thoughts can one make the right decision and develop a successful strategy. In working together, the warrior can give help as well as receive it. By following such advice, it is possible to succeed.
One who is able to understand what sides of a person are good, will always and in everything will have before his eyes an ideal to imitate.
Samurai were encouraged not to follow the teacher blindly. A person may have a wealth of valuable knowledge, but he or she may not be devoid of weaknesses and prejudices. Therefore, it is important to analyze the actions of others, including the mentor, to apply critical thinking and to separate good, good deeds from bad. This ability will allow you to improve and do not stray from the intended path.
To achieve the goal, one must be in a pure and unclouded state of mind.
Depressed mood is reflected in the appearance – noted in the code of bushido. Clearly set task requires full dedication and focus on it. One should not be distracted by external circumstances. Samurai were instructed to give up complaining about life, sad thoughts and their constant pondering. Collectiveness and the desire to succeed is not in harmony with the longing for failure.
One should take matters of great importance lightly.
Continuing the thought, the samurai added that it is necessary to approach the fulfillment of not so difficult tasks with high responsibility. Any business requires careful analysis and time for reflection. Only by thoroughly studying a problem can one develop effective mechanisms for solving it.
About persistence
Even a bad scribe will reach heights in the art of calligraphy if he learns from good examples and makes serious efforts.
Samurai were advised to hone their skills day by day without getting frustrated if they fail at first. Difficulties were part and parcel of the journey. Mentors were sure that it is the obstacles that will help to achieve excellence in any endeavor. Yes, failures make you doubt your abilities, but in the end the result will pay off all the suffering.
A person must learn all his life.
It is necessary to make his mind work, not putting everything off for later. Samurai were taught not to rest on their laurels, to constantly improve, to learn new things and not to be proud of the knowledge gained. The more you delve into a certain area, the clearer it becomes how little you know.
Whoever is ready to work constantly will be filled with wisdom regardless of the advantages and disadvantages given to him by nature.
The samurai were convinced that the hereditary factor and innate talents (lack thereof) do not determine the future. Anyone can succeed no matter what their genes and natural talents are. Some people have a flexible and quick mind, others need time to think and make decisions. You should not dwell on what nature has given you. You should try to change it. Constant practice and perseverance will help you achieve perfection.
About relationships with other people
To give a person your opinion, you should first think carefully about whether they are willing to listen and accept your opinion.
The code noted that pointing out the mistake of another is a compassionate act of helping, but only if the interlocutor is ready to accept criticism. Warriors were advised to first evaluate how best to do this and choose the appropriate way to express personal opinions on controversial issues. It should not be forgotten that before making an evaluative judgment, you should understand how close to you a person is and whether he will trust your words.
To be successful in your endeavor, listen to an outside opinion.
When doing something, some people rely only on their discernment, from this they become too interested in the matter. They do not notice the arguments of reason, and then things do not turn out so well. Do not be afraid to seek advice. A look from the outside will be objective, will tell about the risks, warn against failure.
When talking to the interlocutor always look into his eyes. It is impolite to lower them and fake laughter.
Ethics was an important part of the rule book. It was believed that looking away or down was a bad tone, indicating that the words spoken were not serious and that the warrior was insecure. How relevant even now sound the rules of bushido. Respect for the person with whom the conversation is built is an important part of communication. If you are determined and confident in your rightness, you will be able to make a point by looking into their eyes.
From an early age, you need to encourage courage in your child and not intimidate them.
Parents definitely have a lot to learn from bushido! Relationships with children, according to the code, should be built on trust and respect. It was believed that the fears and worries of parents put a strong imprint on the future life of the child. Children would grow up unself-reliant, cowardly, and unable to display the curiosity necessary to learn about the world. By the way, modern psychosomatics confirms that these beliefs are absolutely true.
About discipline and appearance
Improve yourself constantly, every day, throughout your life.
Samurai were taught that there is no limit to perfection. You must constantly hone your physical data, setting new goals so that each new day is better than yesterday. A warrior who has achieved success and heights should not remain in this state. Success must be confirmed by hard work and daily training. The rapidity of life at any moment can throw up difficult tasks to be solved.
Get up daily at dawn, wash, comb your hair, and keep your clothes in proper condition.
Appearance was an important part of the samurai code. Nothing was to prevent them from looking sharp. Neatness was honored. Sloppiness spoke of laziness, sloppiness. Sleeping and resting schedule, involving early rising – it is important not only for discipline, but also for health.
For a neat appearance is enough to look in the mirror.
In the modern world, this commandment seems to us not very relevant. Nevertheless, if you think about how often we perform this ritual, the result can be upsetting. Some (especially men) go days without seeing their reflection.
Are samurai proposing to engage in narcissism, disproving the first postulate we started with? No. Seeing yourself in the mirror is important to straighten up and see where you can get better at.