Mini-Quiz: Are You a True Samurai?

------------- Samurai culture ()  originated as a warrior class in feudal Japan, serving as armed retainers for powerful landowners and later becoming the backbone of military governance under the shogunate system, where they upheld the authority of their lords and the shogun. Central to Samurai culture was the bushido code, emphasizing honor, loyalty, discipline, and moral conduct; this code guided their actions both on and off the battlefield and became a foundational ethos for Japanese society. Zen Buddhism deeply influenced Samurai philosophy by promoting mental discipline, simplicity, and inner peace, aligning with their martial practices and philosophical outlook on life and death. Challenge your knowledge of ancient Samurai culture and spirituality with our quiz! At the bottom, you will find detailed explanations for each correct answer. Answer all the questions and choose only one response for each of them. 1. Which famous Japanese text outlines strategies for warfare and philosophy relevant to Samurai life?  (A) Genji Monogatari (“The Tale of Genji”)  (B) Kojiki (“Records of Ancient Matters”)  (C) Hagakure (“Hidden Leaves”) 2. What term refers to a masterless Samurai?  (A) Shogun  (B) Daimyo  (C) Ronin 3. What does “Bushido” translate to in English?  (A) The Way of Peaceful Living  (B) The Path of Enlightenment  (C) The Way of the Warrior 4. Which weapon symbolized the soul of the Samurai?  (A) Yari (spear)  (B) Yumi (longbow)  (C) Katana (long sword) 5. What is “Seppuku”, and why was it practiced by Samurai?  (A) A ceremonial sword dance performed during festivals  (B) A traditional method of meditation before battle  (C) A form of ritual suicide to restore honor 6. What was the primary purpose of the Samurai class in feudal Japan?  (A) To mediate between the deity and political authority  (B) To protect the peasant class from enemy invasion  (C) To act as military retainers for the ruling class The correct answers are the ones corresponding to the letter C. Count the number of times you chose answer C and check your profile below. 0: You are far from being a Samurai! 1-2: You are not yet a Samurai 3-4: You are a novice Samurai 5-6: You are a veteran Samurai!