The Dojo Kun is recited at the beginning and end of class. It is
the philosophy which all practitioners of karate should follow. The
lines are recited in order of importance with the first line,
"Seek Perfection of Character," being the most important.
All karateka should strive to become the best they can possibly be
in every way possible, to continually seek perfection no matter how
unattainable. Next they must "Be Faithful," and practice
diligently and frequently. They must also "Endeavor," and
never give up no matter how difficult a task, exercise, or opponent may be. It takes
an indomitable spirit to overcome exhaustion and pain yet still
continue training or fighting. All karateka should also "Respect
Others." A good student should practice hard, but still be
humble and modest about their accomplishments, and they must never
allow themselves to be cruel to or take advantage of others. Finally,
karateka should attempt to "Refrain From Violent
Behavior." They should not learn karate for the sole purpose of
hurting others. Remember that in karate there is no first attack.
Even when confronted by violence, such as a robbery, karate practitioners
should restrain themselves, because no material
possession is worth the risk of losing one's life. Physical
retaliation should only happen when a person's life is being
threatened.