The 5 Dojo Kun and 10 Guiding Principles are a common link between all schools which descend from the lineage of Taika Seiyu Oyata. The emphasis placed on these simple sentences highlights the importance and the depth of knowledge which can be brought out through careful and conscious study of not only the English translations, but the kanji themselves.
Ryukenkan Ryukyu Kempo uses 2 versions of the Dojo Kun.
Adults are required to learn the wording used in most other Oyata-aligned dojo, while junior students learn a simplified version which is easier to understand and contains simpler concepts to apply.
These same Dojo Kun kanji and sentences are used in other styles of Japanese and Okinawan martial arts, however the interpretation and application differs from the Oyata method.
The translations below are the minimum requirement of understanding.
Dojo Kun 1
Junior Version
I will be a good person
Adult Version
Strive for a good moral character
Japanese Version
Jinkaku kansei ni tsutomeru koto
Dojo Kun 2
Junior Version
I will behave honestly and sincerely
Adult Version
Keep and honest and sincere way
Japanese Version
Makoto no michi wo mamoru koto
Dojo Kun 3
Junior Version
I will try always my hardest at everything I do
Adult Version
Cultivate perseverance or a will for striving
Japanese Version
Doryoku no seishin wo yashinau koto
Dojo Kun 4
Junior Version
I will be a respectful person
Adult Version
Develop a respectful attitude
Japanese Version
Reigi wo omonzuru koto
Dojo Kun 5
Junior Version
I will think about my actions before I act.
Adult Version
Restrain my physical ability through spiritual attainment
Japanese Version
Kekki no yu wo imashimeru koto
