In the modern world, it might seem ridiculous to even consider the value of using a sword. Even as a question of personal defense it is probably out of the question. Obviously, a gun would be much more effective as a weapon of self defense.

If this is true, why study the sword? It is said that the sword is the soul of Japan. In the past, it was the farmer/warriors who came to establish the highest class of society that we now know as the samurai. As such, they used various weapons but the best known and most highly regarded or their weapons was the katana. The katana is also generally regarded as the pinnacle of the sword maker’s art.

Originally, virtually everyone who took up the study of the sword did so with the intention of killing the enemy and in the middle and late feudal period of Japan the katana was preferred over the (recently introduced) rifle. However, those days of hand-to-hand combat slowly gave way to the use of fire arms as Japan began to open its doors to the world. The arts formerly dedicated to the battle field were converted to arts directed toward polishing and refining the spirit and additionally to fortify the individual in preference to having to kill.

The word "kenjitsu" or "kenjutsu" means "sword technique". When the word "do" was added which signifies a "way" or "path" the idea of "kendo" or the "way of the sword" was born. However, now, the word "kendo" carries the image of a sport in which bamboo swords are used to strike an opponent and score points. In order to avoid confusing one art with the other, we use the word "kenjutsu". The sword of kenjutsu is used to cut, not to score points. Kenjutsu is not a sport but rather an art form; an art form steeped in formality.

In order to gain mastery of the art one must, of course, study under a licensed instructor. It is not sufficient to just learn the techniques of cutting and thrusting. One must learn how to maintain a proper distance, maintain correct posture and how to perceive the intent of the opponent. Also part of kenjutsu training are the concepts of "iai" (how to draw and cut with the katana from a seated position), "tameshigiri" and "battojutsu (techniques of cutting), and katas (individually and with another person.) Also, one must know where to strike, cut, stab and focus with ki.

Additionally, one learns Japanese customs, some of the Japanese language and etiquette. Sword and jo strategy become an intimate part of one's way of thinking.