Sinjangkal (a sword)
Size length: 76 cm / length of handle: 12.5 cm / diameter: 6 cm
A kind of implement for exorcism
It is a sword to exhibit the dignity and miraculous efficacy of god when performing a ceremony called Sinjang-geori (a kind of exorcism). Swords and knives for exorcism were classified according the spirits of each exorcism. The origins of this sword are recorded in the myth of Dangun (the founding father of the Korean nation).
Usually, a knife is used for cutting something. But sometimes a knife is used for symbolic purposes. Knives or swords symbolized the power, dignity and miraculous efficacy of god when perform a ceremony. Some swords stood for the confirmation of dignity and miraculous efficacy of the god. Others were used to expel evil.
The knife or sword for exorcism differed according to region. The exorcist's knife in the middle or northern regions was similar to an ordinary knife, and came in various kinds. The exorcist's knife in southern region was smaller, and was more like a toy. The exorcist's knife was usually made of iron. But sometimes it was made of bamboo.
Sinjang is a God that guarded a Buddhist canon. The religion of Sinjang has a spirit for defending the country. And it also had the function of a guardian during the Chosun Dynasty. But as time went by, the religion of Sinjang became a folk belief.
Sinjangkal was used in the exorcisms to manage the spirits that appeared in one's house, one's job site, or one's tomb. Exorcists also used Sinjangkal to expel ills, to ensure longevity, and to protect people against natural disasters. The exorcist held Sinjangkal and danced a sword dance when the spirit of Sinjang entered the exorcist's body. Then the exorcist showed the dignity and miraculous efficacy of the spirit of Sinjang and expelled an evil or illness.
From the Website: www.nfm.go.kr (it was not possible to link directly to the above page)
Large photo of the Sinjangkal sword
