Shinobi: The Covert Agents of Feudal Japan
When you think of Japan, one of the images that may come to your mind is that of a ninja, a masked warrior dressed in black, wielding a sword and throwing stars, and performing amazing feats of stealth and agility. But who were these mysterious figures, and what was their role in Japanese history and culture? In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of the shinobi, the covert agents of feudal Japan, who were also known as ninja.
What is a Shinobi?
A shinobi (忍び) or ninja (忍者) was a covert agent, mercenary, or guerrilla warfare expert in feudal Japan. The functions of a shinobi included siege and infiltration, ambush, reconnaissance, espionage, deception, and later bodyguarding and their fighting skills in martial arts, including ninjutsu. Their covert methods of waging irregular warfare were deemed dishonorable and beneath the honor of the samurai. Though shinobi proper, as specially trained warriors, spies, and mercenaries, appeared in the 15th century during the Sengoku period, antecedents may have existed as early as the 12th century.
shinobi
The Origin and Meaning of the Term
The word "ninja" is the on'yomi (Early Middle Chinese-influenced) reading of the two kanji "忍者". In the native kun'yomi reading, it is pronounced shinobi, a shortened form of shinobi-no-mono (忍びの者). The word shinobi appears in the written record as far back as the late 8th century in poems in the Man'yōshū. The underlying connotation of shinobi (忍) means "to steal away; to hide" andby extension"to forbear", hence its association with stealth and invisibility. Mono (者) means "a person". Historically, the word ninja was not in common use, and a variety of regional colloquialisms evolved to describe what would later be dubbed ninja. Along with shinobi, these include monomi ("one who sees"), nokizaru ("macaque on the roof"), rappa ("ruffian"), kusa ("grass") and Iga-mono ("one from Iga"). In historical documents, shinobi is almost always used. Kunoichi (くノ一is, originally, an argot which means "woman"; :p168 it supposedly comes from the characters くノ一 (respectively hiragana ku, katakana no and kanji ichi), which make up the three strokes that form the kanji for "woman" (女).
The Roles and Functions of a Shinobi
A shinobi had two main roles: as an assassin and as a spy to gather intelligence on enemy movements and plans. For both, they employed disguises and learnt the art of deception. The real identity of successful shinobi was, of course, concealed to ensure their own safety and continued usefulness in future operations. Shinobi were also used as forward scouts and to generally cause as much disruption as possible behind enemy lines during nighttime commando raids.
Shinobi were mainly hired by territorial lords known as daimyōs or by other shinobi. How Did Shinobi Develop Their Skills and Techniques?
The skills and techniques of the shinobi, collectively known as ninjutsu, were not a single martial art, but rather a combination of various disciplines and practices that evolved over time and across regions. Ninjutsu was influenced by Chinese and Indian fighting philosophies, as well as by the native traditions of Japan.
The History of Ninjutsu
The history of ninjutsu is not well-defined, but it is believed to have originated around the 6th century BC. The skills that became ninjutsu began to develop between 600 to 900 AD, and were influenced by Chinese and Indian fighting philosophies. The first known ninja school was formalized by Daisuke Togakure and Kain Doshi around the 12th century. The ninja evolved out of a blend of different ideas and disciplines, including shinobi, the covert agents or assassins of feudal Japan.
Ninjutsu was mainly used as a means of survival and self-defense in the turbulent times of feudal Japan, especially during the Sengoku period (1467-1568), when civil wars and conflicts among warlords were rampant. Ninja were hired by various lords and factions to perform tasks such as siege and infiltration, ambush, reconnaissance, espionage, deception, and later bodyguarding. Ninja were also involved in some of the major events and battles of Japanese history, such as the assassination of Oda Nobunaga, the unification of Japan under Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and the resistance against the Tokugawa shogunate.
The Schools and Regions of Ninjutsu
Ninjutsu was not a centralized or standardized martial art, but rather a diverse and adaptable set of skills and techniques that varied according to the school, region, and individual practitioner. There were many schools (ryu) of ninjutsu, each with its own history, lineage, philosophy, and methods. Some of the most famous schools were Togakure-ryu, Koga-ryu, Iga-ryu, Gyokko-ryu, Koto-ryu, Shinden Fudo-ryu, Takagi Yoshin-ryu, Gikan-ryu, Gyokushin-ryu, and Kumogakure-ryu.
The schools of ninjutsu were often associated with certain regions or provinces of Japan, where they developed their distinctive styles and traditions. The most renowned regions for ninjutsu were Iga and Koga, located in present-day Mie and Shiga prefectures respectively. These regions were home to many ninja clans and families who formed independent confederations that resisted the authority of the central government and the samurai class. They also sold their services as mercenaries and spies to other lords and factions.
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Other regions that had notable ninja activity or influence were Yamato (Nara prefecture), Mikawa (Aichi prefecture), Echizen (Fukui prefecture), Kii (Wakayama prefecture), Owari (Aichi prefecture), Shinano (Nagano prefecture), Mino (Gifu prefecture), Kai (Yamanashi prefecture), Musashi (Tokyo prefecture), Sagami (Kanagawa prefecture), Izu (Shizuoka prefecture), Bungo (Oita prefecture), Chikuzen (Fukuoka prefecture), Higo (Kumamoto prefecture), Satsuma (Kagoshima prefecture), and Ryukyu Islands (Okinawa prefecture).
What Kind of Weapons and Tools Did Shinobi Use?
The weapons and tools of the shinobi were diverse and ingenious, reflecting their creativity and adaptability. They used both traditional and improvised weapons, as well as various gadgets and devices to aid them in their missions. Some of their weapons and tools were designed to be concealed or disguised as everyday objects, while others were used to create diversions or illusions. Here are some examples of the weapons and tools that shinobi used:
The Ninjato: The Iconic Short Sword
The ninjato (忍者刀) or shinobigatana (忍刀) was the preferred weapon that the shinobi carried on their back, usually horizontally at a height of around their waist. It is portrayed by modern ninjutsu practitioners as a short sword with a straight blade (similar to a shikomizue) with a square guard. The ninjato was the iconic short sword of the shinobi, often portrayed as having a straight blade with a square guard. The ninjato was typically carried on the back, horizontally at the waist level. The ninjato was not a standardized weapon, but rather a makeshift sword that was often made from common or cheap materials, such as iron or steel. The ninjato was used for close combat, as well as for cutting ropes, bamboo, and other obstacles. Some ninjato also had hidden features, such as a hollow scabbard that could be used as a breathing tube or a blowgun, or a detachable blade that could be used as a dagger.
The Shuriken: The Throwing Stars
The shuriken (手裏剣) or throwing star was another weapon that the shinobi used, mainly for distraction or harassment. The shuriken were small, hand-held metal projectiles that had one or more sharp points. They came in two major varieties: the bo-shuriken (棒手裏剣), which were straight iron or steel spikes, and the hira-shuriken (平手裏剣), which were flat metal discs with four or more points. The shuriken were thrown in various ways, such as overhead, underarm, sideways, or rearwards. The shuriken were not meant to be lethal, but rather to cause pain, injury, or bleeding to the target. They could also be used to hit sensitive areas, such as the eyes, ears, nose, or throat. Some shuriken were coated with poison or dirt to increase their effectiveness.
The Other Weapons and Gadgets
Besides the ninjato and the shuriken, the shinobi also used a variety of other weapons and gadgets to aid them in their missions. Some of these were:
The nunchaku (ヌンチャク), a pair of wooden or metal sticks connected by a chain or rope. The nunchaku was used for striking, blocking, trapping, and disarming opponents.
The blowgun (吹き矢), a hollow tube that was used to shoot darts or needles at a distance. The blowgun was often concealed as a flute or a pipe. The darts or needles could be tipped with poison or fire.
The kunai (苦無), a dagger-like tool that was used for stabbing, throwing, digging, or prying. The kunai had a leaf-shaped blade and a ring at the end of the handle. The kunai could also be attached to a rope or chain for more versatility.
The kama (鎌), a sickle-like weapon that was used for slashing, hooking, or blocking. The kama had a curved blade and a wooden handle. The kama could also be paired with a chain or rope to form a kusarigama (鎖鎌), which added more range and flexibility.
The crossbow (弩), a bow-like weapon that was used to shoot arrows or bolts at high speed and accuracy. The crossbow had a wooden stock and a metal prod that was drawn by a lever or a crank. The crossbow could be fitted with different types of arrows or bolts, such as explosive, incendiary, poisoned, or barbed.
The sai (釵), a fork-like weapon that was used for stabbing, striking, blocking, or trapping. The sai had a metal shaft and two curved prongs on either side of the tip. The sai could also be thrown at an opponent or used to deflect other weapons.
The tantō (短刀), a knife-like weapon that was used for stabbing, slashing, or cutting. The tantō had a single-edged blade and a wooden handle. The tantō could also be concealed in various ways, such as in a fan, a brush, or a belt.
The manriki (万力), a chain-like weapon that was used for striking, choking, entangling, or disarming opponents. The manriki had two metal weights at each end of a long chain. The manriki could also be swung around to create noise or diversion.
The tessen (鉄扇), a fan-like weapon that was used for striking, blocking, or cooling. The tessen had a metal frame and a paper or silk cover. The tessen could also be used as a signal or a disguise.
The makibishi (撒き菱), a spike-like weapon that was used for slowing down or injuring pursuers. The makibishi were small metal or wooden caltrops that were scattered on the ground. The makibishi could also be coated with poison or fire.
The smoke bomb (煙玉), a device that was used for creating smoke or fire. The smoke bomb was a hollow ball or egg that contained gunpowder, sulfur, or other chemicals. The smoke bomb could be ignited by a fuse or by impact. The smoke bomb could also be used to conceal movements, create diversions, or signal allies.
These are just some of the weapons and tools that the shinobi used. There were many more, such as the grappling hook, the bamboo tube, the water spider, the fire arrow, the poison needle, the hidden blade, and the disguise kit. The shinobi were masters of improvisation and innovation, and they used whatever they could find or make to accomplish their missions.
What Are Some of the Legends and Myths About Shinobi?
The shinobi have been surrounded by legends and myths since their existence. Some of these are based on historical facts, while others are exaggerated or fabricated by popular culture. Some of the legends and myths about shinobi are:
The Supernatural Abilities of Shinobi
One of the most common myths about shinobi is that they had supernatural abilities, such as invisibility, teleportation, flight, shape-shifting, mind control, and elemental manipulation. These abilities are collectively known as ninpo (忍法) or ninja magic. However, these abilities were not real, but rather illusions or tricks that the shinobi used to deceive or confuse their enemies. For example, the shinobi could use camouflage, stealth, distraction, or misdirection to appear invisible or to vanish from sight. They could also use ropes, hooks, ladders, or kites to move quickly or to fly over obstacles. They could also use masks, costumes, makeup, or body language to impersonate or disguise themselves as other people or animals. They could also use psychology, hypnosis, suggestion, or intimidation to influence or manipulate others. They could also use firecrackers, smoke bombs, flash bombs, or flares to create explosions, fire, smoke, or light effects.
The Famous Shinobi in History and Fiction
Another myth about shinobi is that they were all anonymous and unknown. However, there were some shinobi who became famous or infamous in history and fiction for their deeds and achievements. Some of these shinobi were:
Hattori Hanzo (服部半蔵), a legendary shinobi who served Tokugawa Ieyasu and helped him become the first shogun of Japan. He was known as "the Demon Hanzo" for his bravery and skill in battle. He was also an expert in castle construction and defense. He is often depicted as wearing a distinctive horned helmet.
Fuma Kotaro (風魔小太郎), a notorious shinobi who served Hojo Ujimasa and opposed Tokugawa Ieyasu. He was known as "the Wind Demon" for his speed and agility in combat. He was also an expert in naval warfare and sabotage. He is often depicted as wearing a mask with a long nose.
Sarutobi Sasuke (猿飛佐助), a fictional shinobi who was one of the Ten Braves of Sanada Yukimura. He was known as "the Monkey King" for his acrobatic and climbing skills. He was also an expert in animal communication and summoning. He is often depicted as wearing a monkey mask or having monkey-like features.
Kirigakure Saizo (霧隠才蔵), another fictional shinobi who was one of the Ten Braves of Sanada Yukimura. He was known as "the Mist Hidden" for his stealth and infiltration skills. He was also an expert in swordsmanship and throwing knives. He is often depicted as wearing a blue scarf or hood.
Ishikawa Goemon (石川五右衛門), a semi-fictional shinobi who was a notorious outlaw and folk hero in Japan. He was known as "the Great Thief" for his daring and spectacular heists. He was also an expert in disguise and escape. He is often depicted as wearing a large straw hat and carrying a giant iron pot.
These are just some of the famous shinobi in history and fiction. There were many more, such as Mochizuki Chiyome, Momochi Sandayu, Fujibayashi Nagato, Jiraiya, and Kato Danzo.
Conclusion
The shinobi were the covert agents of feudal Japan, who used their skills and techniques to perform various tasks for their lords or clients. They were not a single martial art or a unified group, but rather a diverse and adaptable set of individuals and clans who developed their own styles and traditions. They used both traditional and improvised weapons and tools, as well as various methods of deception and illusion. They were surrounded by legends and myths, some of which were based on historical facts, while others were exaggerated or fabricated by popular culture. The shinobi were an integral part of Japanese history and culture, and they continue to fascinate and inspire people today.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between a shinobi and a ninja?
A: Shinobi and ninja are two different readings of the same kanji (忍者), which means "one who endures" or "one who hides". Shinobi is the native Japanese reading (kun'yomi), while ninja is the Chinese-influenced reading (on'yomi). Historically, shinobi was more commonly used, while ninja became more popular in modern times due to media and entertainment.
Q: What is the difference between a shinobi and a samurai?
A: Shinobi and samurai were two different classes of warriors in feudal Japan. Samurai were the noble warriors who followed the code of bushido (the way of the warrior), which emphasized loyalty, honor, courage, and discipline. Shinobi were the covert agents who followed the code of ninjutsu (the art of stealth), which emphasized survival, adaptability, cunning, and deception. Samurai regarded shinobi as dishonorable and beneath them, while shinobi regarded samurai as rigid and arrogant.
Q: What is the difference between a shinobi and a kunoichi?
A: Shinobi and kunoichi were two different genders of covert agents in feudal Japan. Shinobi were male, while kunoichi were female. Kunoichi was originally an argot that meant "woman", derived from the strokes that form the kanji for "woman" (女). Kunoichi used their feminine charms and skills to infiltrate, seduce, or assassinate their targets. They often disguised themselves as geisha, courtesans, maids, or nuns.
Q: What is the difference between ninjutsu and ninpo?
A: Ninjutsu and ninpo are two different terms that refer to the skills and techniques of the shinobi. Ninjutsu means "the art of stealth" or "the art of endurance", while ninpo means "the way of stealth" or "the way of endurance". Ninjutsu is more focused on the practical aspects of shinobi training, such as martial arts, weapons, tools, tactics, strategies, etc. Ninpo is more focused on the philosophical aspects of shinobi training, such as ethics, morals, values, mindset, etc.
Q: What is the difference between Iga-ryu and Koga-ryu?
A: Iga-ryu and Koga-ryu were two of the most famous schools or regions of ninjutsu in feudal Japan. Iga-ryu was based in Iga province (present-day Mie prefecture), while Koga-ryu was based in Koga province (present-day Shiga prefecture). Both regions were home to many ninja clans and families who formed independent confederations that resisted the authority of the central government and the samurai class. They also sold their services as mercenaries and spies to other lords and factions. Iga-ryu was known for its emphasis on individuality, creativity, and innovation, while Koga-ryu was known for its emphasis on teamwork, cooperation, and organization.
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