侍SAMURAI—Japan’s Proud Warriors

In Japanese history, "侍SAMURAI" were warriors who lived with pride and fought through turbulent times. They were not merely a combat force but also formed a culture that emphasized ethics and etiquette, greatly influencing Japanese society. This article delves into the history of samurai, the swords they used, and the Bushido code they followed.

The History of SAMURAI

The origins of samurai date back to the Heian period (794–1185). During this time, noble society required armed warriors to protect private estates (荘園). These warriors later formed a distinct class known as "武士bushi", which eventually came to be called "侍samurai".

In the Kamakura period (1185–1333), the rise of the warrior government led by Minamoto no Yoritomo solidified the samurai’s role in society. Throughout the Muromachi (1336–1573) and Sengoku (1467–1600) periods, samurai fought for their feudal lords (daimyo) in an era of ceaseless warfare.

During the Edo period (1603–1868), the Tokugawa shogunate ushered in an era of peace, transforming the samurai from warriors into administrators. However, the Meiji Restoration (1868) saw the dissolution of the samurai class, forcing many to transition into bureaucrats and entrepreneurs.

刀(katana)　The Symbol of SAMURAI—The Sword

The samurai’s most iconic weapon was the sword. It was not merely a tool for combat but a representation of their very soul, treated with great reverence. There were several types of swords used by samurai:

・太刀(Tachi)

The tachi was a long sword primarily used before the Kamakura period. Designed for mounted combat, it was worn suspended from the waist with the blade facing downward.

・打刀(Uchigatana)

From the Muromachi period onward, the uchigatana became the standard weapon for samurai. Worn with the blade facing upward, it allowed for quick unsheathing and striking, making it highly efficient in battle. During the Edo period, samurai carried both the uchigatana and a shorter sword called a wakizashi, forming a set known as "大小daisho".

・脇差(Wakizashi)

The wakizashi was a shorter sword used for close combat and self-defense. Samurai typically carried both a long sword and a wakizashi as part of their standard armament.

 

武士道(Bushido)—The SAMURAI Code

The philosophy that guided the way of the samurai was called "Bushido." It was a code of ethics emphasizing loyalty, integrity, honor, etiquette, and courage. During the Edo period, Bushido became more systematized under Confucian influence, highlighting seven virtues: "義Gi (righteousness)," "勇Yū (courage)," "仁Jin (benevolence)," "礼Rei (courtesy)," "誠Makoto (sincerity)," "名誉Meiyo (honor)," and "忠義Chūgi (loyalty)."

Loyalty to one’s lord was paramount for samurai. If their master’s honor was damaged, it was their duty to seek revenge through acts of "敵討ちkatakiuchi" (vendetta). Additionally, if a samurai brought disgrace upon himself, he would atone through the ritual of "切腹seppuku" (self-disembowelment).

The Influence and Legacy of SAMURAI

Although the samurai class was abolished with the Meiji Restoration, their spirit endures in modern Japan. The principles of diligence, sincerity, and etiquette can be seen in Japanese business culture, sports, and martial arts.

Traditional martial arts such as "剣道kendo” and ”居合道iaido” preserve samurai swordsmanship, while films, manga, and literature continue to depict samurai as symbols of Japanese identity.

Conclusion

Samurai played a crucial role in shaping Japanese history, and their spirit and culture remain influential today. Their swords were not just weapons but symbols of their identity, embodying the philosophy of Bushido. Understanding the legacy of samurai offers valuable insight into Japanese culture and heritage.