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Kenjutsu is the traditional Japanese martial art of swordsmanship that emerged during the Feudal period and was extensively developed through Japan's feudal era. It encompasses the techniques and principles of fighting with various types of Japanese swords, primarily focusing on practical combat methods rather than spiritual or ceremonial aspects. The term literally translates to "sword technique" or "sword method."
Unlike its more modern counterpart kendo, kenjutsu was developed as a comprehensive battlefield art, teaching warriors how to use their swords effectively in various combat situations. Practitioners learned techniques for drawing the sword (iaijutsu), cutting methods (battōjutsu), defensive maneuvers, footwork, and strategic positioning. Training typically involved kata (predetermined forms) practiced with wooden swords (bokken) or dull metal practice swords (mogito), though some schools also incorporated tameshigiri (test cutting) with real swords on targets like bamboo or rolled straw mats.
Each kenjutsu school (ryū) developed its own distinct set of techniques, philosophical approaches, and training methods. Notable schools included the Yagyū Shinkage-ryū, Ittō-ryū, and Niten Ichi-ryū (founded by the famous swordsman Miyamoto Musashi). These schools often specialized in particular aspects of swordsmanship, such as two-sword techniques, quick-draw methods, or specific battlefield tactics.
The art emphasized practical principles like suki (openings), maai (combat spacing), and zanshin (continuous awareness). Students learned to read opponents' intentions, control distance, and exploit weaknesses while maintaining their own defensive posture. Many schools also incorporated psychological elements, teaching students to maintain composure under pressure and project a commanding presence.
During the Edo period (1603-1867), as Japan entered an era of relative peace, kenjutsu evolved to include more philosophical and educational elements while still maintaining its combat-oriented foundation. Many schools began incorporating concepts from Zen Buddhism, Confucianism, and other philosophical traditions into their teachings, viewing swordsmanship as a path to personal development as well as martial skill.
Following the Meiji Restoration and the modernization of Japan, kenjutsu's practical military applications diminished. However, many traditional schools survived, preserving their techniques and teachings through the modern era. Today, while less common than kendo, kenjutsu continues to be practiced in various forms, with some schools maintaining centuries-old traditions virtually unchanged, offering practitioners insight into classical Japanese martial arts and warrior culture.
The influence of kenjutsu extends beyond martial applications, having shaped many aspects of Japanese culture and philosophy. Its principles of discipline, respect, and constant self-improvement continue to resonate with practitioners worldwide, making it a significant part of the broader Japanese martial arts heritage.
Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) refers to the study and practice of historical European fighting systems, primarily based on surviving combat manuals and treatises from the Medieval and Renaissance periods. This martial tradition encompasses a wide range of weapons and fighting styles, including longsword, rapier, sword and buckler, polearms, wrestling, and unarmed combat techniques.
The foundation of modern HEMA study largely comes from surviving fight books (fechtbücher) and treatises written by historical masters such as Johannes Liechtenauer, Fiore dei Liberi, George Silver, and Joachim Meyer. These manuscripts, dating from the 13th to 17th centuries, contain detailed instructions, illustrations, and philosophical approaches to combat. The German and Italian traditions are particularly well-documented, though significant sources exist from other European regions including Spain, England, and France.
#metatron #hema #kenjutsu