[47MartialMan]

Originally Posted by sirdarksol

Explanation, please?

Gi Rectitude
Justice is another good translation for the word. The samurai was expected to be just in dealing with those around him. Perhaps the best example of Gi in Japanese history would be Judge Ooka, who is known for his clever ways of bringing about fair results.
These are tales glamorized by Japanese authors. In the analogy of the US Wild West, which more facts sufacing, it was far from these tales.

He wasnt "just" as they often performed assasination and were on the sides of evil/wicked shogun. If you pledge loyalty to such warload, then you are not acting in accordance to fair or just.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Makoto or Shin Honesty
A samurai must be honest. Again, this is a fairly basic concept.

Per above, Samurai were not honest, they did what they were told. Much riverly between clans may had some "up-front etiquette", but there were cheating and conspiracy everywhere.
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Rei Respect
Proper respect for one's elders and one's betters. This was particularly important for the samurai, as a samurai's master was his life.
Samurai didnt care about elders let alone for women and children. He would slaughter anyone. And often without orders.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jin Benevolence (odd that this is also the word for people)
A samurai was supposed to act for the good of those around him. This is a basic concept that ranges across nearly every culture, and it's not surprising that it is here, too.
He didnt act good for those around him.
He had an agenda.
There were not nice people. They were bullying and arrogant.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following are also sometimes added
Ko Filial Piety
This is a duty to one's family, and more importantly, one's ancestors. This has a link to Shinto, which I won't go into here.
They didnt have a duty to their family. Under orders they will kill their own wives and children. Quite a contradiction to Shintoism.
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Tei Care for the Aged
Again, just what it sounds like.
They didnt care for the aged. They thought they were weak and useless often killing old farmers. Also they stole food from them. Many Samurai were beggers.
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The code/virtues of Bushido is romanticised. It wasnt like this starting thread discussion at all.