The beautiful calligraphy is used by kind permission of Eri Takase (www.takase.com). Eri does many wonderful works of both traditional and modern calligraphy, scrolls, tattoos, etc.
I was greatly inspired by the film "The Last Samurai". This film has led me to explore the Samurai culture. These values (Bushido) impressed me as timeless and relevent to my Christian walk.Other films I have enjoyed are those of Kurosaka: "The Seven Samurai" (later remade as the great Western "The Magnificent Seven"),"Rashimon" and "Ran". There are many such works by many other directors.I hope these ideals will inspire you.
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GI (Honesty and Courage)
Be acutely honest throughout your dealings with all people. Believe in Justice, not from others, but from yourself. To the true Samurai, there are no shades of gray in the question of Honesty and Justice. There is only right and wrong. |
REI (Polite Courtesy)
Samurai have no need to be cruel. They do not need to prove their strength. A Samurai is courteous even to his enemies. Without this outward show of respect, we are nothing more than animals. A Samurai is not only respected for his strength in battle, but also with his dealing with others. The true strength of a Samurai becomes apparent during difficult times. |
YU (Heroic Courage)
Rise up above the masses of people who are afraid to act. Hiding like a turtle in a shell is not living at all. A Samurai must have heroic courage. It is absolutely risky; it is dangerous. It is living life completely, fully and wonderfully. Heroic courage is not blind; it is intelligent and strong.Through intense training, the Samurai becomes quick and strong. He develops a power that must be used for the good of all. He has compassion; he helps his fellow men and women at every opportunity. If an opportunity does not arise, he goes out of his way to find one. |
MEIYO (Honor)
A true Samurai has only one judge of honor and this is himself. Decisions you make and how they are carried out are a reflection of whom you really are. You cannot hide from yourself. |
JIN (Compassion)
Through intense training, the Samurai becomes quick and strong. He develops a power that must be used for the good of all. He has compassion; he helps his fellow men and women at every opportunity. If an opportunity does not arise, he goes out of his way to find one. |
MAKOTO (Complete Sincerity)
When a Samurai has said he will perform an action, it is as good as done. Nothing will stop him from completing what he has said he will do. He does not “give his word.” He does not have to “promise.” |
CHUGI (Duty and Loyalty)
For the Samurai having done some thing or said some thing, he knows he is responsible for it and all the consequences that follow. A Samurai is intensely loyal to those in his care. To those he is responsible for; he remains fiercely true |
