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Creed and Dojo Etiquette
Strongest Spirit| Best Etiquette| Perfect Technique
Etiquette in the dojo is of utmost importance. It is also interesting to learn about the attitudes and behaviors of a different culture. In traditional martial arts, the formalities of etiquette are what separate the practice from simply learning to fight and transform the art into an act of self-cultivation. Good etiquette brings a positive atmosphere into the dojo, yourself and others. Etiquette also helps the dojo become a strong unit in which everyone is equally valued. Each person in the dojo receives an equivalent amount of respect; yet, everyone should acknowledge differences in rank. The etiquette process changes with the more seniority one has and higher rank results in more responsibility. Ultimately, the main function for etiquette is to hold us accountable to acting mindfully.
We often pass through our daily lives without being fully present and aware of our actions. All of us need to observe our actions and be mindful and responsible for them. This is an important lesson in budo and is the first step to developing a strong self-concept. Self-concept in our dojo’s philosophy is analogous to the first traditional gift of the Samurai of Japan: “The Mirror.” Etiquette polishes the self to reflect truly.
Our dojo creed is:
The Best Etiquette
The Strongest Spirit
The Perfect Technique
We must adhere to these principles, in this order, to the best of our abilities in an attempt to reach higher levels of budo.
The following list outlines some aspects of mindful etiquette that are often overlooked (all are equally important):
- Any time Sensei Donahue or any of his teachers (such as Soke Pabst or Sensei Azem) enters the dojo for the first time, the most senior student and/or a junior student (if the senior student is unaware) will give the command, “kiotsuke (attention)!” At this time, all should stop and bow while saying, “Sensei, onegai shimasu (please share with me).” This also applies to Sensei’s guests.
- You should treat your Sensei as you would a good parent. You should always be attentive to Sensei, e.g. holding doors open even if it is out of your way. Look for many small things you can do yourself or as a dojo for your Sensei. At formal events no one should eat or drink until Sensei has his first bite/drink. Etiquette can never be overdone.
- Since Sensei should be treated like a good parent or treasured friend, Sensei’s teachers should be treated with even more respect. His teachers are the grandparents of our practice.
- Senior students are responsible for making all new students and guests feel welcome and at home in the dojo. Seniors should keep a watchful eye for things that could potentially be harmful to those in the dojo. By doing so, they can help prevent injury, wrong-doing, rude behavior or anything else that could negatively affect the dojo.
- Words in the dojo can be meaningless or can kill like the sword. One must be ever-mindful of his or her actions. Insults or swears are not tolerated. On the other hand, excessively using empty words such as “I wish I could” or “I’m sorry” are unnecessary and hurt Sensei’s ears. Ultimately your actions speak louder than your words and your intentions are most important.
- Do not ask Sensei when is the right time for you to have certain material, when to test, or whether or not you are ready for a Shihai (tournament or demonstration).
- Take Sensei’s suggestions about your training seriously.
- It is always better to ask before doing things that involve your training or the dojo if you are unsure (e.g. using the makiwara (striking post), punching bag, handling weapons or answering the phone). Do not assume!
- When given homework, please do it.
- Do not try to be humble, just be humble.
- To offer is better than being told or asked to do something.
- Your family outside the dojo is part of the dojo family. You are responsible for them at dojo functions.
- Sensei’s etiquette will always be more relaxed than yours should be. Remember that Sensei is still being mindful of his actions.
- Sensei will not ask you to do something he/she has not done, or is or not doing.
- Question your training. If it does not feel good, bring it to Sensei’s attention so he can help you with this.
- Competition of any sort will not be tolerated.
- Never use or bring illegal drugs into the dojo. Intoxication in the dojo is NOT tolerated. If you have a prescribed narcotic medication, let Sensei know before you begin to train.
- Do not pass in front of somebody; always walk behind them. If you have to pass in front of them, please excuse yourself by putting your hand by the side of your face as you pass by them.
- Sojido (mindful cleaning) should be done at the beginning and end of every class without waiting for instructions unless Sensei specifically tells you that sojido is not needed.
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