Bushidō may be understood as a constellation of virtues that shaped the ideal character of the samurai, binding martial prowess to ethical and spiritual discipline. At its core stands **Gi**, rectitude or righteousness: the unwavering commitment to do what is morally right, regardless of personal cost or consequence. This sense of justice is not merely legalistic, but an inner alignment with what is perceived as proper and just. Alongside it is **Yū**, courage, which is not reckless daring but a steady readiness to face danger and adversity, guided by duty and clarity of mind. Such courage is inseparable from an acceptance of risk and even death, so that fear does not dictate action.

Balancing this stern moral resolve is **Jin**, benevolence or compassion, which calls for mercy, kindness, and magnanimity, especially toward the weak or defeated. The warrior ideal is thus tempered by a sense of responsibility to protect and serve others, preventing strength from hardening into cruelty. **Rei**, respect or courtesy, further refines conduct by insisting on proper behavior, politeness, and consideration for others, including observance of social order and ritual propriety. Through Rei, everyday gestures become expressions of inner discipline and regard for the dignity of all.

Truthfulness forms another pillar of this code through **Makoto** (or **Shin**), honesty and sincerity. Words are expected to carry the weight of an oath, so that deception, empty promises, and duplicity are seen as profound failings of character. **Meiyo**, honor, gathers these virtues into a single concern for living and, if necessary, dying with dignity. Honor involves maintaining integrity and reputation in the eyes of society and ancestors, striving to avoid any cause for shame.

Finally, **Chūgi**, loyalty, and the ideal of self-control bind the code into a coherent way of life. Loyalty demands steadfast devotion to one’s lord, family, and duties, even to the point of self-sacrifice. Self-control, or mastery over one’s emotions, desires, and fears, allows these virtues to be expressed consistently rather than only in moments of convenience. Taken together, these principles portray Bushidō as an ethical path in which inner composure, moral clarity, and compassionate strength are cultivated in service to something greater than the individual self.