The seven points of the code: Yamabushido
To help explain and clarify our code, I have decided to pen a series of short articles for our website. I have chosen (very fittingly) to begin with an explanation of the following point:
“Gi” (Decisiveness). Definition: “To choose a certain direction and determine to continue upon it, even when faced with adversity.”
Being able to make decisions clearly demonstrates the strength of character that is so often associated with being a warrior, so it is fitting that we all encourage this particular attribute within ourselves. And, once a decision has been made, and a course of action decided upon, then we should strictly adhere to it, come what may and no matter what.
For example: A warrior in battle might be required to achieve some important objective which, although seemingly small and almost insignificant, actually plays a key role in the overall outcome of the action. The warriors ability to decide upon the best way of going about this, together with the courage and tenacity they show in carrying out there duty, can end up meaning the difference between realising a glorious victory or suffering a humiliating defeat.
This is a vital lesson for all of us, as it serves to illustrate the inescapable fact that, what even the least of us does, is still vitally important to the overall good: The most trivial act can sometimes have incredibly powerful consequences. That is why, whenever a warrior decides to do something, they do it with focus, concentrated effort and strict attention to detail.
So, then. Whenever a mountain warrior is required to accomplish some task, the mindset and attitude adopted should be one of: “it is already done” rather than “I could do that” or “I might be able to do that” or even, “I will do that”.
We are all yamabushi and, therefore, family. We can trust and rely upon each other and have faith in one another. Because of this, whenever we are given an instruction or, if you prefer, a “direction” to travel in, then we should ensure that we accomplish this objective and know that this is pivotal to experiencing victory.
It is not for a warrior of the sacred mountain to be discouraged simply because they come across an obstacle in their path, no matter how big and/or insurmountable it might appear to be at first glance: There exists no obsticle that cannot be overcome by a yamabushi, simply because our borthers and sisters are around us always (even if, sometimes, we might now be able to see them) and will always be there to lend their efforts to our own until eventually the way is once again made clear for us to continue on our journey.
To help us understand and appreciate what is stated above, it will help if we adopt the following “3 R’s”:
- Resilience (keep going no matter what, overcoming difficulties)
- Resourcefulness (facilitate an effective solution by whatever means)
- Reliability (being depended upon to get the job done)
By adopting these, we clothe ourselves with this determined attitude of “Gi” in much the same way as we put on our budo “Gi” to prepare ourselves for the physical practice of our arts.
Certainly, that is the way I was taught, and is the way I continue to live my life. Gi, then, is an integral part of the way a warrior should conduct themselves when fulfilling their various duties and responsibilities.