What Is The True Bushido Code

At its heart the true Bushido Code is a strict code of ethics maintained by the Samurai, of feudal Japan.
There are seven virtues that make up the Bushido Code. Although slightly different words are found in different texts... the meanings of the seven virtues are the same:

1) Justice
2) Courage
3) Benevolence
4) Politeness
5) Veracity
6) Honor
7) Loyalty

Today, many martial artists, military, security and law enforcement personnel & business people study and practice Bushido. While it's true the "suicide by hara-kiri" is a thing of the past... the seven virtues have stood the test of time.

How can you tell if you've really absorbed Bushido and live the virtues? It's simple. Step outside yourself and observe how you communicate & behave when you're at your worst.

Do you keep your composure while in a highly emotional state? When someone is verbally disrespectful - can you de-escalate the situation or do you get defensive and argue?

If you're in law enforcement - do you truly use the minimum amount of force needed to stop the threat or do you resort to unnecessary violence or abuse?

If you're in business - do you negotiate win-win scenarios or do you crush & kick the other side when they are in an inferior or weakened position?

If you're a supervisor or leader in your organization - do you lead & support your staff or do you 'boss them around' and use your title to cause fear?

Bushido is a Japanese term, literally meaning the “Way of the Warrior”, a code of chivalry for the Samurai, originating from Buddhism, Confucianism, Shinto, and Zen. It was an ethical code of conduct, developed between the 11th to 14th centuries and was formalized during the opening years of the Tokugawa Shogunate for the members of the Samurai class.

read the classic text Hagakure , which outlines the way of the Samurai and true bushido code for yourself.

According to the Japanese Dictionary Shogakkan Kokugo Daijiten: "Bushido is defined as a unique philosophy (ronri) that spread through the warrior class from the Muromachi (chusei) period."

Only through the exercise of these virtues can a Samurai maintain his honor, and one who has forfeited honor is compelled to commit suicide by hara-kiri.