Ikido Explained

thumb|right|220px|An illustration of ikidoIkido (in Japanese:生き胴) is a Japanese execution method.

Ikido translates to "living torso". Ikido was invented during the Edo period and was used as a form of tameshigiri (test cutting) on living people and dead people.^{[1] [2] [3] [4]}

Prior to execution, a mound of dirt was set-up on the execution site. The condemned person was laid on their stomach on the dirt mound and then blindfolded. The condemned person was then slashed with a sword on their neck and torso simultaneously, slicing the person in two. ^[5] Sometimes after the execution, details of the execution were carved into the sword of the executioner.^[6]

While mostly used as a form of capital punishment, ikido was also used on ordinary citizens.

See also

• Tameshigiri

Notes and References

1. Book: Matsumura, Akira. Daijisen. Shogakukan, Daijisen Editorial Department . 1995 . 9-78456-970-2667. 124 . ja.
2. Book: Sesko, Markus . Encyclopedia of Japanese Swords . 2014-09-30 . Lulu.com . 978-1-312-56315-5 . en.
3. Book: Wakasagi, Ken . 御庭番通史 . A General History of Yu Tingban . e-Bookland. . 2012 . 9-78486-521-0293. 63 . ja.
4. Book: Reikhaku - Issues 140-157. Kokuritsu Rekishi Minzoku Hakubutsukan. 2007 . 13 . ja.
5. Book: Okaya, Shigemi. 新訳名将言行録 . New translation of famous general's statements. PHP Institute . 2008 . 9-78456-970-2667. 54 . ja.
6. Book: Nawa, Yumio. Pictorial Historical Encyclopedia: Spears, Armor and Arms. New People Agency. 1983 . 100 . ja.