Chinese ancients believed the sword to be the only weapon that was not ill-omened. Many dynasties promulgated specific sword-bearing laws, generally stipulating that common laboring people were disallowed from sword ownership, it being the privilege of the wealthy and those in the official ranks of power and influence. The sword was the weapon of scholars and warriors alike. Many wore it as a fashion accessory and indication of high social status. All but the most favored of officials were prohibited from wearing a sword when summoned to the imperial court.

The emperor was the supreme ruler of China's feudal society, at whose whim a man could live or die. As the emperor's sword was regarded as having similar power, its bearer (seldom the emperor himself) was invested with discretionary powers as to its use. Consequently, no matter how high an accused official's rank might be, the bearer of the emperor's sword had the power to execute him or not, as he deemed fit.

The weapon also had applications within Taoist spells. A peach wood sword was believed to ward off demons and evil spirits, and was often hung on a wall to protect, as well as ornament, a household.

It having been observed that ancient Chinese men of letters felt a particular affinity with the sword, the great German poet Heinrich Heine is quoted as having once said, "After I die, put a sword, not a pen, into my coffin." It would seem, therefore, that sword lovers are by no means confined to the ranks of Chinese scholars.

All rights reserved. Reproduction of text for non-commercial purposes is permitted provided that both the source and author are acknowledged and a notifying email is sent to us.