Bushido: The Seven Principles of the Samurai Code

Bushido, the moral code of Japan's samurai warriors, has roots in the Kamakura period (1192–1333) and was popularized globally by Nitobe Inazō's 1899 book 'Bushido: The Soul of Japan'. The code outlines seven key principles: Gi (justice), Yu (courage), Jin (benevolence), Rei (politeness), Makoto (honesty), Meiyo (honour), and Chū (loyalty). Justice was considered the strongest value, requiring decisions based on reason and moral intent. Courage was distinguished from bravery as moral fortitude to act rightly despite fear. Benevolence balanced strength with kindness. Politeness recognized human dignity and influenced Japanese traditions like bowing. Honesty was so paramount that samurai rarely used written agreements, trusting their spoken word. Honour could compel a samurai to perform seppuku to avoid shame. Loyalty to one's lord was the defining feudal value, forming an unbreakable chain from foot soldier to shogun. These principles were shaped by Zen Buddhism and texts like the Hagakure (early 18th century).