This week in the dojang, our focus goes beyond physical technique. Alongside etiquette and endurance drills, we’re diving into something much deeper—the Ten Articles of Faith. These principles are more than just words to memorize; they are a blueprint for how to live as martial artists and as human beings.
These teachings trace back to the Silla Dynasty in 6th-century Korea, where an elite group of young warriors known as the Hwa Rang were trained not only in combat, but in character. Their code shaped the foundation of what we now carry forward in Tang Soo Do.
Let’s take a deeper look at each article—not just what it says, but what it asks of us.
1. Be Loyal to Your Country
Loyalty is about more than patriotism—it’s about responsibility. It asks: What do you contribute to something greater than yourself?
In today’s world, this may look like being an active, positive force in your community. Loyalty is not blind obedience—it is thoughtful commitment to the well-being of others.
2. Be Obedient to Your Parents
At its core, this principle is about respect for those who guide us early in life. As we grow older, it evolves into gratitude and understanding.
It reminds us that wisdom often comes from those who have walked the path before us—even if we don’t always see it right away.
3. Be Loving Between Husband and Wife
This speaks to loyalty, patience, and mutual respect in our closest relationships.
Love here is not just emotion—it is action. It is choosing to support, to listen, and to stand beside someone even when it’s difficult.
4. Be Cooperative Between Brothers
“Brothers” extends beyond family—it includes classmates, training partners, and teammates.
In the dojang, we grow together. Cooperation means lifting others up, not competing in a way that tears them down.
5. Be Faithful Between Friends
Faithfulness is about trust. It’s about being someone others can rely on, especially when it matters most.
A true martial artist doesn’t just build strength—they build bonds that don’t break under pressure.
6. Be Respectful to Your Elders
Respect is one of the cornerstones of Tang Soo Do.
This article reminds us to value experience, to listen, and to remain humble. No matter how far we progress, there is always someone who has more to teach us.
7. Be Faithful Between Teacher and Student
This relationship is sacred in martial arts. It is built on trust, effort, and honesty.
As instructors, we commit to guiding. As students, the responsibility is to show up, give effort, and remain open to learning—even when it’s challenging.
8. Know the Difference Between Good and Evil
This is perhaps one of the most philosophical of all. It asks us to develop judgment and awareness.
Right and wrong are not always obvious—but a disciplined mind, guided by strong values, helps us make better choices.
9. Never Retreat in Battle
This does not mean reckless action—it means courage.
Sometimes “battle” is not physical. It may be facing fear, adversity, or self-doubt. This principle teaches us to stand firm, to endure, and to keep moving forward even when things get hard.
10. Always Finish What You Start
This is the essence of discipline.
In a world full of distractions and unfinished efforts, this article reminds us that true growth comes from seeing things through. Whether it’s earning your next belt, completing a goal, or simply showing up consistently—finishing matters.
The Philosophy Behind the Practice
The Hwa Rang were not just warriors—they were scholars, leaders, and individuals of high moral character. Their code was designed to create balance: strength with humility, skill with wisdom, power with compassion.
That same philosophy lives on in our training today.
When we practice hyung, push through endurance drills, or bow in respect, we are not just building better martial artists—we are shaping better people.
A Community That Lives These Values
This past weekend, we saw these Articles of Faith in action.
To all of our students and parents who participated in our dojang clean-up and community clean-up—thank you. Your willingness to give your time, serve others, and take pride in our space and our community is exactly what these principles are all about.
It was an incredible way to show support for Earth Day and to demonstrate that martial arts extends far beyond the mat.
Final Thought
The Ten Articles of Faith are not something you master in a day, a month, or even a lifetime. They are something you practice—just like your kicks, your stances, and your forms.
Each day is another opportunity to live them.
Tang Soo!
Monday/ Tuesday: Hyung
Wednesday/ Thursday: Articles of Faith, Etiquette, & Endurance Drills
