Samurai Culture

Improved Essays
The Samurai are a class of warriors in Japan who pledged to be loyal to their masters in return for land. The Samurai are legendary warriors and the most outstanding group of individuals to ever exist in Japan. The Samurai progressed throughout the development of the Japanese culture and became the highest ranked class during the Edo Period (1603-1867.) Throughout this research paper, It will make clear to you why the Samurai stand out as one of the most famous group of warriors of all times.
Samurai Warriors used Naginata (long blade against cavalry), Katana (long sword), Wakizashi (short sword) for their use of weapons. During battle, Samurai warriors dressed in helmets, armor, which was made of layered metal or leather to imitate the look
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Though the indigenous practice of Shinto never disappeared Buddhism and its various deity figures, rituals and scriptures became very influential. Pure Land Buddhism and specific parts of Shingon and Tendai all contributed to the religious beliefs of the Samurai. Zen Buddhism best suited the warriors and complemented Bushido. Zen Buddhism sketched out the rituals and scriptures of Pure Land and the background for the idea that all things are fleeting and enlightenment may be attained through spiritual and physical discipline. There was no concern for death which suited the Samurai’s practice. Samurai’s had to be prepared to die at any given time. On a Samurai’s helmet, there are flames that reach up to the side and meet at a point on the very top. This refers to the flaming jewel in Buddhism, a common symbol referring to the wish-fulfilling properties of Buddhist practice and devotion. The helmet further shows Buddhist influence by the image of Fudo Myo-o, the wrathful figure known as the “Immoveable One.” The Samurai wanted to “show off” the fierce qualities of the deity and did so by wearing this helmet. Upon entering a Buddhist temple in Japan, you are met by two guardians, Agyo and Ungyo. These guardians are protectors of the faithful. The mouth on this mask appears open as if to speak the “ah” syllable …show more content…
The Samurai pledge an oath of loyalty to the Daimyo. Samurai Warriors beliefs included; Samurai were devoted to their master, courageous, loyal, honorable. The Samurai’s also had a strict honor code in which they lived by the way of the warrior and they were loyal to their communities. The Samurai’s would fight to defend their honor and if they were to disrespect their master, they could be killed. When a Samurai disrespected their master, they would commit

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