The bushido( the way of the warrior) and how it is still relevant today.

Travis Knowlton LCSW
3 min readFeb 28, 2023
Austrian national library - unsplash

Bushido is a Japanese term that refers to the code of conduct and ethics followed by samurai warriors in feudal Japan. It is often translated as "the way of the warrior" and embodies the values of loyalty, honor, self-discipline, and self-sacrifice.

Bushido developed over many centuries as a means of guiding samurai in their daily lives and in their roles as protectors of their lords. The code emphasized the importance of martial skills, as well as a mental and spiritual discipline.

The seven virtues of Bushido are:

Rectitude (義, gi)
Courage (勇, yū)
Benevolence (仁, jin)
Respect (礼, rei)
Honesty (誠, makoto)
Honor (名誉, meiyo)
Loyalty (忠義, chūgi)

Gi (義) - Rectitude: This virtue emphasizes the importance of adhering to a strict moral code and doing what is right, even in difficult situations. It is often translated as justice or righteousness.

Yu (勇) - Courage: This virtue emphasizes the importance of bravery and fearlessness in the face of adversity. It is often translated as valor or bravery.

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Travis Knowlton LCSW

I'm a husband, father, veteran, and licensed clinical social worker that is here to enjoy and share!