三尺下がって師の影を踏まず

(さんじゃくさがってしのかげをふまず)

Japanese meaning

師につき従う時、弟子は三尺ほど後ろを歩いて、師の影を踏んではいけないということ。

English meaning

When following a master, a disciple should not tread upon their shadow, showing respect and maintaining a distance.

Literal English translation

Walking three shaku behind, do not step on the teacher's shadow.