The ideal samurai was supposed to follow an unwritten code of conduct, later formalized as Bushidō , which held bravery, honour , and personal loyalty above life itself; ritual suicide by disembowelment ( seppuku ) was institutionalized as a respected alternative to dishonour or defeat. The proper method for committing the act was to plunge a short sword into the left side of the abdomen , draw the blade laterally across to the right, and then turn it upward.
Beyond the battlefield, the Samurai placed great emphasis on courtesy and respect. Their refined manners and consideration for others were integral to maintaining social order and have influenced traditional arts like tea ceremonies and calligraphy.
In battle, samurai were renowned for their use of a variety of weapons, including the iconic katana, a long, curved sword known for its sharpness and strength. They also utilized bows, spears, and later, firearms. Samurai armor, designed for mobility and protection, included the kabuto (helmet) and dō (chest armor).
For those interested in learning more about the samurai, there are many historical sites and museums dedicated to their legacy. The city of Kamakura, located south of Tokyo, is home to many temples and shrines associated with the samurai, including the famous Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, is also home to many samurai-related sites, including the Kyoto Samurai and Ninja Museum.
In the Heian period it was the habit of emperors to keep harems, and consequently the imperial family got so large it burdened the treasury. In the early 9th century AD, Emperor Saga expelled several dozen members from the imperial family, who formed two new clans: the Minamoto clan (814 AD) and the Taira clan (825 AD). Many wealthy provincial families married into the Minamotos and Tairas in order to acquire aristocratic status, gaining prestige and often tax exemptions. And so the Tairas and Minamotos became big and wealthy clans with lots of warrior retainers. [ 20 ]
All samurai were supervised by their lords, but from 1180, the national Samurai-dokor (Board of Retainers) was formed to particularly monitor gokenin and dish out disciplinary measures for any misdemeanours if and when required. From 1591, samurai were no longer permitted to be both farmers and warriors and had to choose one living or the other, the idea being this would make them more dependent and so more loyal to their masters.
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