The 7 Virtues of Bushido Part 5: JIN (Compassion)

Recently a small cardboard sign appeared on the dojo wall over the half-fridge at my dojo. I see it every time I go for water or use the bathroom. I read what this little sign said about the virtues of Bushido and began to wonder: It’s one thing to talk about integrity or courage, but how do these seven virtues apply to real life on the mat? What do these words actually mean? How do these virtues show up at a dojo? Do I see them in action? Where do I experience them in myself or in others? I decided to explore each of these principles to see whether, how, and where they have come alive for me in my training. So over seven posts, I will briefly explore each of these virtues and the commentary below it. I’ll quote the commentary, pull up a dictionary definition, and then add a thought or two about how this might work on the mat.

NOTE: For those interested in learning a lot more about Bushido and its history as well as where these virtues come from (Nitobe Inazō), check out the following Wikipedia link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bushido to begin your exploration.

5. JIN (Compassion)

Through intense training and hard work the true warrior becomes quick and strong. They are not as most people. They develop a power that must be used for good. They have compassion. They help their fellow man at every opportunity.

• Dictionary definition: The deep feeling of sharing the suffering of another in the inclination to give aid or support, or to show mercy.

Compassion is a lofty ideal, but is more nuanced and complex on the mat. And compassion looks different depending on where you're standing: Are you giving or receiving compassion?

I’ve certainly been on the receiving end of an instructor’s compassion. It’s demonstrated in many small ways: a slight smile, a quick nod, a pat on the shoulder in passing—it’s never more than that on the mat, is it?—just a brief acknowledgment that you have been seen trying your best. The message of compassion is simple: Keep going.

A different form of acknowledgment is correction. Being corrected is a gift from your instructor to you, and should be received with respect. They are taking time out of their own training to pay attention to yours. It’s always worthwhile to consider it for that reason alone!

On the giving side, though, it’s more complicated. For senior students, expressing compassion is part of training, and learning when and how to be “kind” is an art in itself. As a higher rank, kindness toward younger belts means watching them, assessing their skill set as it grows, and helping them where you can, even as you continue to develop your own skills and understanding. Your awareness is now in two places: in your own work and in the person you are helping. It’s double the effort. Therefore, take time to learn when to share the insights and skills you have worked so hard to develop—and when to leave well enough alone.