"The higher the rank I attain, the more humbly I behave.
The greater my power, the less I exercise it.
The richer my wealth, the more I give away.
Thus I avoid envy, spite & Misery."
Sun Shu Ao, Zhou Dnasty
Many people consider that to be a teacher is to be in charge, or to give orders. The Japanese word Sensei means simply, 'One who has gone before', and the word for disciple is Deshi, which means, 'younger brother or sister'. There should be no orders' in a well run Dojo, but rather, mutual respect and co-operation between teachers and pupils. If the more experienced lead by example and assist with affection, then those below will follow naturally this is the ancient way.
The high esteem accorded teachers of Budo was due solely to their devotion 'the way' and their kindly aid to those who followed. Respect is not a right determined by rank or grade, but a privilege that is earned by the wisdom of the teacher and the diligence of the pupil.
The purpose of Reishiki is to cultivate an atmosphere, which is most likely to foster correct study.
Discipline is more strict in a properly run Dojo that in almost any other situation, yet the atmosphere is not repressive because this discipline is self-imposed. There are times when one may converse freely, or even joke and laugh inside the Dojo, without breaking etiquette; the result of etiquette is to do what which is appropriate to the occasion.
Etiquette should not be confused with ceremony and form, which are expressions of principle. Each Dojo has its own forms and ceremonies so the newcomer need only behave politely to be in accord with the spirit of etiquette. Lastly it should be born in mind that any area, or space, in which Budo takes place, becomes in spirit, a Dojo. This is especially true of public contests and demonstrations in which feelings often run high and students are under the eye of the general public.
Otani Hanshi