Origin and Meaning of Samurai

Those who serve

Origin: Japanese - The term 'samurai' (侍) is derived from the verb 'saburau' (侍る), which means 'to serve'. Historically, samurai were the military nobility and officer caste of medieval and early-modern Japan.

• Samurai are known for their strict code of conduct, called 'Bushido', which emphasizes honor, discipline, and loyalty.
• Samurai were not only warriors but also played important roles as statesmen, poets, and scholars in Japanese history.
• Famous samurai figures include Miyamoto Musashi, known for his skill in swordsmanship and authoring 'The Book of Five Rings', and Takeda Shingen, a prominent military leader in the 16th century.
• The samurai class was officially abolished during the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century, leading to significant social and political changes in Japan.
• The image of the samurai has permeated various aspects of popular culture, including movies, anime, and video games, often symbolizing bravery and honor.