The Samurai were the warriors of pre-modern Japan. They lived by a strict ethical code called Bushido, which stressed loyalty to one’s master and self-discipline among other things. Bushido is a code of conduct that guides samurai philosophy in thought and action. The philosophy has evolved over time, however the principles are still used today to help guide people’s daily lives and provide a focus and direction regarding how we should view ourselves, the world around us and our place within it.
Bushido places an emphasis on sincerity, frugality, loyalty, patience, and honor. It was a code of ethics that balanced the violent and war-like existence of the martial samurai. The Way addresses the question of morality, role in society, and how live a life of virtue and honor while avoiding behaviors that are destructive to the self and the spirit.Many Samurai were drawn to the teachings and practices of Zen Buddhism. We’ve listed some of their most inspiring quotes here.
“Engage in combat fully determined to die and you will be alive; wish to survive in the battle and you will surely meet death.”
“You can only fight the way you practice.”
“If there isn’t discipline, how can there be a true realization of an ideal?”
“One thousand days of lessons for discipline; ten thousand days of lessons for mastery.”
“The path that leads to truth is littered with the bodies of the ignorant.”
“To win any battle, you must fight as if you are already dead.”
“No fear, no hesitation, no surprise, no doubt.”
“You must understand that there is more than one path to the top of the mountain.”
“Technique by itself is insufficient, and spirit alone is not enough.”
“Think lightly of yourself and deeply of the world.”
“As a samurai, I must strengthen my character; as a human being I must perfect my spirit.”
Honour may not win power, but it wins respect. And respect earns power.
A warrior is worthless unless he rises above others and stands strong in the midst of a storm.
If you embark on an uncharted path, infinite secrets will appear at the end.
I know nothing about surpassing others. I only know how to outdo myself.
This is the substance of the Way of the Samurai: if by setting one’s heart right every morning and evening, one is able to live as though his body were already dead, he gains freedom in the Way. His whole life will be without blame, and he will succeed in his calling.
The undisturbed mind is like the calm body water reflecting the brilliance of the moon. Empty the mind and you will realize the undisturbed mind.
As a samurai, I must strengthen my character; as a human being I must perfect my spirit.
It is good to face challenges in your youth. He who has never suffered will not sufficiently temper his character.
In conclusion, the bushido code of the samurai is a set of principles that governed the behavior and way of life of the samurai warrior class in Japan. These principles, including loyalty, honor, and self-discipline, have had a lasting impact on Japanese culture and continue to be revered and upheld today. The bushido code reminds us of the importance of living with integrity, purpose, and respect for others. It is a testament to the samurai’s unwavering commitment to excellence and their enduring legacy as some of the greatest warriors in history.
We hope these quotes inspired you.