The ninja do not use weapons. They use tools.
The word “weapon” is destructive. It emphasizes violence. The word “tool” is constructive. It emphasizes harmony, because tools are only useful in the context of a bigger goal or project.
Using the word tool instead of weapon also sets the focus in the right place. It’s not a good sign when the weapon is perceived as having all the power. The ninja carries the power. Or, at least, that’s how it’s supposed to be.
I’m going to ruffle some feathers here and explain it like this: a guy with a gun has no power. In that scenario, the gun has the power. The guy is probably threatening someone with a gun because he doesn’t have the power within himself. In contrast, a ninja knows the power lies within, and can walk around in the world without the need to threaten anyone at all. Or use something external to feel powerful.
Do not underestimate the difference between these two.
I’ve noticed some ninja enthusiasts who really love talking about ninja weaponry like shuriken (throwing stars) or katana (swords) or kakute (iron spiky rings). Which is fine. But sometimes I get the feeling that they mistakenly believe these weapons are what make the ninja “cool.” Which is not fine. And it’s totally missing the point.
No ninja worth his salt leaves the house and panics because he forgot a tool at home. He can improvise. He is flexible. The tool is not necessary, even if it’s helpful. What’s necessary is his presence of mind, his strength, his ability to read and react to a situation quickly. What’s necessary isn’t defeat or prowess but survival.
I admit, it’s cool to read how the ninja used rope and grappling hooks to scale castle walls, or how they used bamboo to cross a body of water undetected. I have fond memories of those invisible ink pads I had as a kid, which is absolutely part of the ninja legacy. But I just want to be sure we always remember: it’s a tool not a weapon.
The greatest tool is a ninja’s presence, a ninja’s spirit. You can’t outsource that or fake that. You either have it or you don’t.
