The Seven Virtues of Bushido – Duty and Loyalty
Consider the world around you. Everywhere, all around, there are products, services, initiatives, charities…simply put, people doing things in all facets of society that ultimately are interdependent. A sense of duty exists to keep our environment clean, to heat our homes, to keep the lights on, to design quality engineered cars, to help the less fortunate. On a smaller scope, a sense of loyalty to ensure our family and friends are happy and healthy, and that we are there for them when needed.
The word samurai, the people whose ancient code we’ve written about these past weeks, literally means “those who serve”. As such, a professional Japanese martial artist’s life (or that of a North American student) is one of a certain calibre of devotion, not only to themselves but their community as well. They were duty-based individuals. This same variety of lifelong duty and loyalty exists in Japan today, as some employees stay with their original employers until retirement simply because it’s virtuous to do so (and can be generally secure).
From a martial arts perspective, duty and loyalty can be summed up in five words that you may have noticed spoken in the dojo “Your word is your bond”. A spoken or implied commitment must have the integrity of duty and loyalty. If you say you’ll be there, be there. If you say you’ll do something, it must be done. Practically, it is an effort in expediting projects and processes as resources can be focused away from your own independent efforts. In matters more personal, it displays integrity and trust. One’s own duties, no matter how small or great, should be a sacred undertaking. What could have more gravity than one’s own word, which is one of our only true possessions?
The virtue of duty and loyalty can be attributed as well to the karmic cycle. According to the understanding of karma, an individual is indebted from their previous life; it is their duty to atone for their wrongdoings, or to live up to a previous incarnation with great deeds. Less philosophically speaking, an individual must always consider the people who have helped them when in need, the community that they live amongst, and more.
This virtue is one of responsibility. A martial artist, especially, is responsible for the words they say, the things they do, and the consequences that follow. As a leadership role increases, such responsibilities deepen. Consider Sensei’s role and responsibilities. The individualities, emotions, abilities, and rank positions of hundreds of people are his responsibility in nurturing throughout the years. It is a high duty, and that’s why he is Sensei.
Take some time to meditate. Contemplate: “What is my duty in life? What do people depend on me for? To whom am I loyal? What is expected of me, and when?” Duty transcends the simple obligation of performing labour in order to be compensated. It is an everyday effort to establish what one can do to serve their family, community, club, or dojo. We have duties everywhere, at all times, and they must be found out and completed with due diligence. In leadership courses and military handbooks alike, it is said that a leader should seek out and embrace responsibilities. This can be through volunteer service, especially.
Next week, we complete our examination of the Seven Virtues of Bushido with the tenet that may be the very soul of the Japanese martial artist, from which everything else springs; honour.
Until next time,