One must understand the value and history of the katana and what it represents. Japanese culture is rich in symbolism, and katana is just one of the aspects of that. But what does a katana really represent? Keep scrolling to read more.
What A Katana Represents?
The Japanese sword has traditions that go back thousands of years. A samurai’s sword represented his warrior’s soul. The katana is the symbol of the Samurai class. A samurai always carried two katanas, the long sword and the short wakizashi, passed down from one generation to another. Together they formed the daisho (long & short), the samurai’s basic weaponry, which was carried during the peace on his lift side, with the blade pointing upwards. Samurai people customized swords as per their societal ranks. The high-rank warriors wore their swords horizontally, while low-rank men wore theirs almost vertically, closer to the body.
Another kind of sword incorporated the long tachi, which was carried with the edge pointing downwards and just wearing a shield, and the tantô, a straight-bladed sword. The samurai people were most disappointed when they were banned from wearing katana in public in 1876.
Rituals Related to Japanese Sword
Different rituals concerning the sword included giving up the sword upon entering somebody’s home or bequest. A worker would gather the blades and monitor them in a storage room close to the entrance. While giving over his sword, the predominant individual would utilize one hand, and the substandard individual getting the sword would typically utilize two hands, one more honorable gesture.
More About Samurai Culture
Ancient Japanese warcraft was noble, a practice in the art of war. Ancient samurai were battling for regard and land. They were safeguarding their families and their lords. The craft of war can be followed back to feudal Japan and the study of the samurai.
A samurai’s most valued belonging was his katana. Samurai were educated men who held respect in the community. They were an entire class of champions whose primary purpose was to serve their masters, who were otherwise called “Shoguns.” Samurai were second in position in society to those in governance positions. Women who married samurai were considered in high esteem. The samurai class had access to quality education and were skilled in different areas. They took an interest in art, culture and poetry.
There are various types of samurai swords found, and each type represents a different period. The swords considered highly valued in history require a certain level of etiquette and respect when passed down to preserve their legend. This is considered an essential aspect because Japanese culture is proud and meaningful, and by showing respect to their swords, you are respecting their culture and people.
Early samurai fighters carried swords of various lengths. Fighters turned out to be exceptionally connected to their swords, regularly giving them names as a worthy gesture. Swords came to be known as the spirit of the fighter and were treated with similar regard.
Conclusion
The samurai history is filled with rich ideas that one must appreciate and marvel at the objet d’art of that period. Samurai swords are the famous symbol of samurai warriors’ life. It is a most valuable piece of history of the samurai people and the Japanese culture.