Taijiquan Jian or T'ai Chi Ch'uan Chien (Gim) : The Double-Edged Straight
Chinese Sword
Disclaimer
Warning: Practicing with Sword Weapons Can Be a Dangerous
Activity for Adults. Please Use Caution!
Bibliography, Links,
Resources
T'ai Chi Ch'uan Sword (Jian, Gim, Chien)
Academy of European Swordsmansip
Antique Arms and
Armour. Seven Stars Trading Company. Scott
Rodell. Articles,
information, resources.
The Art of
the Chinese Sword. By Philip Tom. 34Kb. Mirror
The Art
of Chinese Swordmanship: The Manual of Taiji Jian. By Yun Zhang.
New York, Weatherhill, 1998. 287 pages. ISBN: 0834804123.
Sifu Yun
Xhang was a student of Grandmaster Wang Peisheng (Ying Cheng). A 32 movement Wu short Jian form, by Wang Peisheng
is taught. VSCL.
The Art
of Japanese Swordsmanship. By Nicklaus Suino. Weatherhill, 1994.
264 pages. ISBN:0834803003.
The Art
of War. By Sun Tzu. Translated by Thomas Cleary.
Illustrated edition.
Shambhala, 2004. 224 pages. ISBN: 1590301854.
Pass your actualtests 70-646 and certkiller 000-669 exams in first try by using our guaranteed testking 642-832
Association for Renaissance Martial Arts (ARMA) Essays on Swords and Swordsmanship
Autumn
Lightning: The Education of an American Samurai. By Dave Lowry.
Edited by Ron Suresha. Shambhala, 2001. 192 pages. ISBN:
1570621152.
Ba Gua Sword - Traditional. Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.
Instructional VHS videotape, 121 minutes. Step by step instructions, multiple views,
demonstrations. A 37 posture form developed by Liu Jingru, officer of the
Beijing Ba Gua Zhang Research Association. Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
Ba Gua Zhang (Pa Kua Chang): Bibliography, Links,
Resources, Quotes
Bichunmoo
(Dance With Sword). Directed by Young-jun Kim.
2000. ASIN: B00005MEVV.
Bokken:
Art of the Japanese Sword. By Dave Lowry. Black Belt
Communications,
Inc., 1985. 192 pages. ISBN: 0897501047.
Book
of Five Rings. By Miyamoto Musashi. Translated by Thomas Cleary.
Boston, MA, Shambhala, 2000. Notes, bibliography, 114 pages.
ISBN: 1570627487. VSCL.
A Brief
Introduction to Practicing Taiji Sword. By Li Tianji.
Broadsword (Dao, Saber, Ox Tail Broadsword) and Taijiquan
Bibliography, links, resources, techniques, styles, quotes, notes.
Broadsword (Dao, Saber): Chen Taijiquan Style.
Bibliography, Links, Lists, Instructions, Resources, Quotations, Online Videos
Broadsword (Saber, Dao, Ox Tail Broadsword):
Sword Techniques
Broadsword (Dao, Saber): Yang Taijiquan Style.
Bibliography, Links, Lists, Instructions, Resources, Quotations, Online Videos
Buddhism: Taijiquan and Martial Arts
Budo
Secrets: Teachings of the Martial Arts Masters. By John Stevens.
Boston,
Shambhala, 2001. 115 pages. ISBN: 1570629153.
Butterfly
and the Sword. Directed by Chi Li Tang and Michael Mak. 86
minutes, 1993.
ASIN: B0000507OK.
CAS Iberia: Swords, Knives and Weapons
Chen
Single and Double Broadsword. By Chen Zhenglei. DVD 90
minutes. The single
form has 13 movements and the Double form has 35 movements.
Chen Style T'ai Chi Ch'uan Hand Forms,
Sword (Jian), Broadsword (Dan Dao), Spear, Silk Reeling.
Chen Style Tai Chi Double Sword. Presented by Jiang Jian-ye. Instructional VHS videotape, 120 minutes. 39 movement set created by Chen Zhaopei.
Step by step teaching, multiple views, and demonstrations. Website: Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
Chen Style Tai Chi Sword - Traditional. Presented by Jiang Jian-ye. Instructional VHS videotape. 49 Movements. Step by step teaching, multiple views, and demonstrations. 120 minutes. Website: Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
Chen Style Tai Chi Sword. Presented by Ren Guang Yi. Instructional
VHS videotape,
60 minutes. 49 posture traditional Chen form.
Chen Style Tai
Chi Weapons Forms. Demonstrations by Master Chen Quanzhong.
Chen Style Taijiquan: Bibliography, Links, Quotes,
Notes
Chen Style Taijiquan Broadsword (Dao, Saber):
Bibliography, Links, Lists, Instructions, Resources, Quotations, Online Videos
Chen Style
Taijiquan Sword Form. Research by Mike Garofalo.
Bibliography, links, list of movements, quotes, notes, resources. Analysis
of the the 49 movement Chen Tai Chi sword form.
Chen
Style Taijiquan Double Straight Sword. DVD.
Chen
Style Taijiquan: Sword and Broadsword. Translated by Chen
Bin. Tai Chi Centre, 2003. 368 pages. ISBN: 7534823218.
Chen Style Taiji
Sword Form. List of 49 movements.
Chen
Style Taiji Sword Form. Presented by Yue, Li-ming.
Instructional VHS
videotape. 2001. ASIN: B00005K20Y
Chen Tai Chi Chuan Sword Form. Presented by George Xu. Part 7 of the
Chen
Tai Chi Chuan Series. Volume 25 of China's Living Treasures Series.
Step by
step teaching, multiple views, repetitions, and demonstration.
Instructional VHS
videotape, 56 minutes.
Chinese Swords.
By Thomas Chen. History, sword making, types, links, information.
Chinese
Swords and Swordsmanship Forum. Sword Forum Internatinal.
Moderated by
Philip Tom, Scott Rodell.
Chinese Swordsmanship: The Yang Family Taiji Jian Traditions. By Scott
M. Rodell.
Annandale, Virginia, Seven Stars
Books and Video, 2003. 304 pages. Introduction, sword
traditions,
history, safety,
Yang classical form and Michuan Taiji fighting system.
Review
ISBN: 0974399906. VSCL. The Michuan Jian form is meticulously described and photographed and applications shown on pages 73-184, and the Public Yang Jian is likewise described on pages 185-257. Applications and
swordplay
with partners are covered. The basic Jian cuts are explained on pages
41-64.
Chinese 2 Handed Swordsmanhip Schools/Styles
Classical Fencing and
Historical Swordsmanhip Resources
Classical Tai Chi Sword: Bibliography, Links, Resources,
Quotes, Lists, Instructions
Classical
Tai Chi Sword. By Petra Kobayashi, Toyo Kobayashi, and Chiang Tao Chi.
Charles E. Tuttle, 2003. 176 pages. ISBN: 0804834482.
”Classical
Tai Chi Chuan Sword, Taijiquan Jian 55 in the Yang Style: Comparison of Names
or Descriptions for the 55 Movements.” Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California, January 2008.
By Michael P. Garofalo. This document includes a detailed listing of the
names or brief descriptions of the 55 movements of the Classical Taijiquan Straight Sword
Form in the Yang Style of Taijiquan. This document includes names or brief descriptions
for each movement in English, Romanized Chinese (Pinyin and/or Wade Giles),
Chinese characters, Spanish, French, German, and Japanese. The document
includes source citations and a bibliography. In PDF format, print only,
262Kb,
34 pages:
Webpage:
http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/Classical Taijiquan Yang Sword Form 55 List
Detailed.pdf
Cloud Hands Blog: Taijiquan, Qigong
and Yoga
Concepts, Search Terms, Terminology, Vocabulary:
Boken
(Japanese wooden sword), Budo
(Way of Warrior., Martial Arts - Japanese),
Chinese
Swords, Chinese
Swordsmanship, Dagger, Dai Dao - Chinese Hand Broadsword
Dao (Chinese Broadsword), Falchion, Fencing,
Jian (Chinese Sword),
Iaido
(Japanese art of drawing and striking with sword),
Kendo
(Japanese art of fighting with bamboo swords),
Knife, Saber, Smallsword,
Sword,
Samurai
(Japanese Swordsmen)
Swords, Sun Style Tai Chi Swordsmanship, Swords
- Legends, Swordsmanship,
Rapier,
Tai Chi Swordsmanship, Yang Style
Tai Chi Swordsmanship
Crouching
Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Directed by Ang Lee. Columbia Tri Star,
2000. ASIN: B00003CXR4. Starring Yun-Fat Chow and Michaelle Yeoh.
Crouching
Tiger, Hidden Dragon - Wikipedia
"Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (Traditional
Chinese: 臥虎藏龍;
Simplified Chinese: 卧虎藏龙;
pinyin:
Wò Hǔ Cáng Lóng)
is a
Chinese-language
wuxia (chivalric
martial arts) film
released in 2000. A
China-Hong
Kong-Taiwan-United
States
co-production, it was directed by
Ang Lee and
features an international cast of
ethnically Chinese actors including
Chow
Yun-Fat,
Michelle Yeoh,
Zhang Ziyi
and Chang
Chen. It was choreographed by
Yuen Wo
Ping and is based on
the fourth novel in a
pentalogy,
known in China as the Crane-Iron Pentalogy, by
Wang Dulu.
Made on a mere US$15 million budget, with
dialogue in
Mandarin, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon became a surprise
international success, grossing US$128 million in the
United States alone, where foreign-language films are very rarely
embraced by the public. It also won the
Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and was nominated for
Best Picture, as well as winning four other Academy Awards."
Dao (Saber, Broadsword) and Taijiquan
Bibliography, links, resources, quotes, notes.
Designs, Retail Sales and Manufacturing - Tai Chi Swords
Double Dragon Sword Form. Presented by Jiang, Jian-ye.
Instructional
VHS videotape, 54 minutes. Website: Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos. Demonstrations
from various angles. A 23 movement form blending various T'ai Chi
styles.
Dragon
Inn. Directed by Daniel Lee. Hong Kong, Tai Seng1992.
"A fantastic remake of King Hu's epic swordplay drama "Dragon Gate Inn"
(1966)."
ASIN: B000059HA4.
East Asian Arms
and Armour Virtual exhibit.
Elementary
Swordplay and Broadsword Play. By Victor Wu. Part of the Chinese Kung Fu Series. Hai Feng Pub. Co., 1984. 135 pages.
ISBN: 9622380263.
11 Sword Forms
Demonstration and Workshop. Presented by Jiang
Jian-ye. Instructional VHS videotape, 120 minutes. Tai Chi, bagua, and xingyi sword
forms. Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
"The Essence of True Wudang Sword." By Qian Timing.
Translated by Dr. Mei-hui Lu. T'ai Chi: The International Magazine of T'ai Chi Ch'uan,
Vol. 29, No. 1, February 2005, pp. 14-24.
Extreme
Directions: The 54 Moves of Tai Chi Sword. By Alice Jones. Omnidawn Publications, 2002. 64 pages. ISBN: 1890650110.
Falchion (Dao, Saber) and Taijiquan
Bibliography, links, resources, quotes, notes.
Fighting
with the German Longsword. Christian Henry Tobler. Chivalry
Bookshelf,
2004. 248 pages. ISBN: 1891448242.
Five Families Tai Chi
Sword Demonstration and Workshop. Presented by Jiang
Jian-ye. Instructional VHS videotape, 120 minutes. Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
42 Tai Chi Sword. Presented by Jiang Jian-ye. Instructional VHS
videotape. 117 minutes. The standard 42 forms competition form. Step by step
instructions,
multiple views, and demonstrations. Website: Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
Gateway
to the Miraculous: Further Explorations in the Tao of Cheng Man-ch'ing.
By Wolfe Lowenthal. Berkeley, California, Frog Ltd., 1994. 124
pages.
ISBN: 1883319137. Swordwork: pp. 22-33. Cheng Man-ch'ing
(1901 - 1975) was a Taijiquan master, medical doctor (TCM), poet, calligrapher, artist,
teacher, and author. The photo below was taken in New York in the early
1970's.
Glossary of Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan) In English and Chinese.
By Mike Garofalo
Green Destiny Sword from "Crouching Tiger,
Hidden Dragon."
Replica 1,
Replica 2,
Replica 3,
Replica 4, Replica 5
Hagakure:
The Book of the Samurai. By Yamamoto Tsunetomo and William Scott
Wilson.
Kodansha International, Reissue Edition 1992. 180 pages. ISBN:
4770011067.
The Heart of Kendo. By Carrell Max Craig. Shambhala
Publications, 2000.
Cheng Man-ch'ing
(1901 - 1975)
Gateway
to the Miraculous:
Historical Illustrations of Two Handed Chinese Swords. Scott Rodell.
"How to Hold the T'ai Chi Sword." By Paul Lam and
Kam Lau Fung. T'ai Chi,
Vol 23, No. 3, June 1999, pp. 38-41.
Illustrations (black and
white line art) - Denotations and Illustrations - Index - 32 Sword
Iaido:
The History, Teachings and Practice of Japanese Swordmanship.
By William De Lang and Akita Moriji Sensei. Weatherhill, 2002. 158
pages.
ISBN: 0834805006.
Internet Sword Colllectors
Association
International Center for the
Healing Arts. Port Townsend, WA. Michael
Gilman Yang style Taijiquan hand and weapons forms. Instructional
videotapes and DVDs, books, and numerous excellent on-line classes are offered.
In the Shadow of Leaves - Japanese
Swordsmanship Extensive website.
"An Introduction to Antique Chinese Swords." By David
Dolbear. T'ai Chi International Magazine of T'ai Chi Ch'uan, Vol. 23, No. 6, pp.
42-48.
The
Japanese Sword: A Comprehensive Guide. By Kanzan Sato.
Translated
by Joe Earle. Kodansha America, 1983. 210 pages. ISBN:
0870115626.
Japanese Swordsmanship School
Australia Battodo
Japanese
Swordsmanship - Dragon Associates
Japanese Swordsmanship Society
Kobudo, Iaido
Jian, Jen, Chien, Taiji Sword, Chinese Swordplay: Links,
Bibliography, Resources
Jian: Straight
Sword. Instructional VHS videotape.
Jiang, Jian-ye, Sifu -
Tai Chi Videos. He has prepared numerous useful
instructional videotapes. These videotapes provide step by step instructions, multiple views,
repetitions, summaries, and complete
demonstrations.
Jin Yong and Chinese
Martial Arts Novels
Kendo:
The Definitive Guide. By Hiroshi Ozawa and Tamilo Yamaguchi.
Kodansha International, 1997. 173 pages. ISBN: 4770021194.
Kill Bill I. Directed by Quentin Tarantino. Starring Uma
Thurman, Lucy Liu, and David Carridine. 2003. DVD, 111 minutes. ASIN: B00005JMEW.
Korean
Swordsmanship 26Kb.
Kun Wu Jian and its Applications. Northern Shaolin Sword. By Yang,
Jwing-Ming and his senior students. Instructional VHS videotape. 48 minutes.
ISBN: 188696906X. YMAA Publications.
The
Last Samurai. Starring Ken Watanabe and Tom Cruise.
Directed by Edward Zwick. 2003.
155 minutes. ASIN: B0001JXOVC.
Legacies of the Sword. By Karl F. Friday and Seki Humitake.
Honolulu, University
of Hawaii Press, 1997.
Li Deyin 32 Taiji Jian.
2 DVDs. "Taiji Sword is one of short weaponry routines of tai
chi boxing integrated with tai chi boxing and swordplay techniques. 32-form taiji
sword was adapted from Yang-Style Tai Chi Sword by Chinese martial arts master Li Tianji.
The set of routines is dissected in 2 sections, 2 returns and 32 movements. The 32-form
taiji sword was supported by the National Physical Education Committee."
List of Movements - Yang Style Taijiquan Sword Form
Lives of Master Swordsmen. By Sugawara, Makoto. Afterword by
John Stevens.
Tokyo, East Publications, 1999.
The
Martial Arts Guide to Ancient Chinese Weapons: An Easy Reference
Guide. By
Yang, Jwing-Ming. Edited by James C. O'Leary. YMAA Publication
Center, 1999.
160 pages. ISBN: 1886969671.
Maio Dao, Form One, Created by
Monk Cheng Zongyou. Interpreted by Guo Ruixiang.
Two handed sword form.
Ms. May Tan Mui Buay.
International Wushu Tai Chi Sword Champion.
Mugai Ryu: The Classical Samurai Art of Drawing the Sword. By Darrell Max
Craig. YMAA Publications, 2002. 260 pages. ISBN: 1886969183.
Mu Lan Single Sword. Presented by Lu Yuzhi. A 31 movement
form. Review of
postures and demonstration. Instructional VHS videotape, 95
minutes.
Musashi.
Biographical novel about Miyamoto Musashi. By Eiji Yoshikawa. Translated by Charles S. Terry. Kodansha International, Reprint Edition,
1995.
984 pages. ISBN: 4770019572.
Northern
Shaolin Sword. By Yang, Jwing-Ming, Jeffery Bolt, and Sam
Masich. YMAA Publications, 2000. Second Edition. 320 pages.
ISBN: 188696985X.
Northern Shaolin Sword. San Ci Jian and its Applications. By Yang,
Jwing-Ming and his senior students. Instructional VHS videotape. 48 minutes.
ISBN: 1886969051. YMAA Publications.
100 Days of Swordsmanship Blog
From Charlie in Boston.
Online Videos of Tai Chi Sword Forms
Orthodox Taiji Sword. Instructional VHS videotape. Presented by
Madam Wang Ji Yung. 108 minutes. Step by step teaching of the 32 Form sword set. Produced
by Vecom
Development Co.. Includes a 26 page instructional booklet. Versions
in Mandarin,
Cantonese, Japanese and English. Madame Wang is the Vice Chairman of the
the
Chinese Wushu Association, and Professor at the Shanghai Wushu Investigation
Laboratory. Distributed by Wayfarer.
Pa Kua Chang (Baguazhang): Bibliography, Links,
Resources, Quotes
"Practical Tai Chi Sword." By J. Justin Meehan.
T'ai Chi: The International Magazine of Tai Chi Chuan: Vol. 30, No. 6,
December, 2006, pp. 24-29.
Practice
Drills for Japanese Swordsmanship. By Nicklaus Suino.
Weatherhill, 1995. 112 pages. ISBN: 0834803399.
Rodell, Scott Antique
sword expert and author.
Saber (Broadsword, Dao) and Taijiquan
Bibliography, links, resources, quotes, notes.
The
Samurai Sword: A Handbook. By J. M. Yumoto. Tuttle, 1958.
ISBN: 0804805091.
School of European
Swordsmanship in Helsinki
Seven
Samurai. Directed by Akira Kurosawa. Starring Toshiro
Mifune. 1956.
ASIN: 6302969352.
Shaolin
Dragon Movement Straight Sword. Instructional VHS
videotape. 1994. IBSN: 1586570137.
Shaolin Sword. Presented by Jiang
Jian-ye. Instructional VHS videotape, 80 minutes. Step by step instructions,
multiple views, demonstrations.
Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
Staff Weapons: Jo, Bo, Cane. Links,
bibliography, quotes, notes.
Standard 32 Sword
Form: Bibliography, Links, Quotes, Notes
Subject Index to the Cloud Hands Website.
Return to the Main Index on this Webpage
Sun
Lu Tang's Style of Swordsmanship
Sun Style Taijiquan Sword (Jian, Gim), 50 Movements Form
Swashbuckling: A Step by Step Buide to the Art of Stage Combat and Theatrical Swordplay. By Richard Lane. Revised and updated edition. Applause Books, 2001. 192 pages. ISBN: 1557834598.
Symbolism and Lore about the Taijiquan Sword Postures
Great Star of the Literary
God, Chief Star, Big Dipper
Sword
and Brush: The Spirit of the Martial Arts. By Dave Lowry.
Boston, MA, Shambhala, 1995. ISBN: 1570621128.
The Sword and the Mind. By Munenori, Yagyu. Translated by
Hiroaki Sato.
Woodstock, New York, Overlook Press, Reprint 1988. 144 pages.
ISBN: 0879512563. 17th century Japanese sword master.
Sword
Fighting: A Manual for Actors and Directors. By Keith Ducklin and John
Waller.
Applause Books, 2001. 192 pages. ISBN: 1557834598.
Swordfighting
Basics. By Michael Shire and Rob Valentine. Michael Shire,
2003. 56 pages. ISBN: 0973425105.
The Sword Form: Flying Through Myth and Legend. By Audi Peal.
Sword Forum International Extensive website with information on the
history and use of
swords around the world in both military and civilian situations.
Sword
of Doom. Directed by Kihachi Okamoto. 1966. ASIN:
6303386717. Starring Tatsuya Nakadai as a sociopathic samurai.
Sword Manufacturers, Makers, Distributors, Vendors
The Sword of No Sword: Life of the Master Warrior Tesshu. By John Stevens.
Boston, Shambhala, 1994. 176 pages. ISBN: 1570620504.
The Sword of T'ai Chi
Ch'uan. T'ai Chi Ch'uan Chien (Jien). By
Harvey Kurland. 13 Kb.
Swordplay
and Kung Fu Film Reviews.
Swords -
Kinds of Swords - Definitions
Swordsman's
Companion: A Modern Training Manual for the Medieval Longsword. By
Guy Windsor. Highland Village, Texas, Chivarlry Bookshelf, 2004.
Bibliography, notes, 222 pages. ISBN:
1891448412. VSCL. A very useful manual for all swordsmen.
Swordsman
II. Starring Jet Li and Bridgette Lin. Directed by
Siu-Tung Ching and
Stanley Tong. Tai Seng, 1992. ASIN: B00000JKWE.
Swordsmanship in
Western Films
Swordsmanship in United Kingdom -
Aberdeen Swordsmanship Group
A Swordsmith
and His Legacy. Mr. Chen.
Swords, Straight, Chinese (Jian, Jen, Chien) - Links,
Bibliography, Resources
Sword - T'ai Chi
Ch'uan, 32 Form, Yang Style, Taijiquan Jian. By Michael P. Garofalo. This popular webpage includes a comprehensive
bibliography, scores of links to webpages, an extensive listing of the names and
name variations for each movement (English and Chinese), a detailed analysis of
each posture and movement sequence with explanations and numbered illustrations,
instructions, selected
quotations, a comprehensive media bibliography, and a comparison of the 32 and
55 sword forms in the Yang style.
© Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California,
January 2008.
HTML Version:
http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/sword32.htm 165Kb
PDF
Version.
http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/sword32MPGFull.pdf 1.07MB,
63 pages, PDF Print Only Version
Yang Style, Standard Orthodox 32 Sword Form, List of
32 Movements, Valley Spirit Taijiquan List:
http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/32SwordFulla.pdf
15Kb, 1 page, PDF Print Only Version
Yang Style
Sword Form, Classical Tai Chi
Sword, List of Movements, 55 Movements, Valley Spirit Taijiquan List:
http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/sword55.pdf 55Kb, 25
pages, PDF Print Only Version
Green Way Research:
http://www.egreenway.com/index.htm
Sword
Techniques: Taijiquan Broadsword (Saber, Ox Tail Broadsword, Dao) Chen
Taijiquan Dao, Yang Taijiquan Dao, Wushu Competition Dao
Tai Chi Chien
and Tai Chi Tao: Chinese Tools of Bad Omen. By Dorothy A. Odsen,
Ph.D. 17Kb. From Black Belt Yearbook, 1982, pp. 56 - 61 .
Tai Chi 42 Forms Sword. By Dr. Paul Lam. The 42 form is a
competition form designed
by Professor Kan Gui Xiang. It blends Yang, Chen, Wu and Sun styles of
sword
forms. Instructional VHS videotape, 100 minutes. Step by step
instructions,
multiple views and demonstrations.
Tai-Chi Straight Sword. By Wong, Doc-Fai. Yang style straight
sword. Instructional
VHS videotapte. 45 minutes. Demonstration of the form with
multiple views. Step by step repetition of individual movements. MGC.
Tai Chi
Sword. Instructional videotape. Presentation by Master Liang, Shou-Yu. Directed by Wu, Wen-Ching. 1999. VHS. ISBN:
1889659053. 60 minutes.
Step by step teaching of the 32 Form taiji sword routine.
Tai
Chi Sword. By Dan McGrath. 10Kb
Taiji
Sword and Other Writings . By Chen, Wei-Ming. Translated by Barbara Davis. Berkeley, California,
North
Atlantic Books,
2000. Bibliography, 93 pages.
ISBN: 1556433336.
Tai Chi
Sword Forms. Presented by Bob Klien. Artistic Video1985,
1995. Instructional VHS videotape. ISBN: 6303927688.
Tai Chi Sword
Form. Peter Lim.
T'ai-Chi Swordplay and the Eight-Diagram Palm. By Shing, Yen-Ling.
Tokyo, Japan, Sugawara
Martial Arts Institute, 1992. 131 pages. ISBN: 087040850X.
"Tai Chi Sword Silk Reeling Exercises."
By Phil Perez. T'ai Chi: The International
Magazine of Tai Chi Chuan: Vol. 31, No. 1,
February, 2007, pp. 28-37.
T'ai Chi Symbol and Sword Postures. By Xiao J. Li. Tai Chi, Vol. 24, No. 5, October 2000, pp. 33-37. An excellent informative article.
Tai Chi:
The 32 Sword Forms. Instructional VHS videotape. Presentation
by Dr. Paul Lam. ASIN: B00005U59Y. 95 minutes. Step by step
teaching, slow and normal speeds, multiple views. Inculdes demonstration of the 48
Form set. VSCL. 32 Sword
T'ai Chi
Thirteen Sword: A Sword Master's Manual. By Stuart A.
Olson. Translations by Stuart Olson. Burbank, CA,
Unique Publications, 1998.
258 pages. ISBN: 1892515148. MGC. Detailed
description and charts
for the 61 Movement Yang Style sword form.
Tai Chi Weapons. Presented by Peter DeBlasio Jr. M.D.. Instructional
VHS videotape, 27 minutes. DeBlasio is a student of T.T. Liang, and the
two are shown fencing together.
Tai Chi Weapons in Action. By Douglas H. Y. Hsieh. Taiwan,
Meadea Enterprises, 1986. 70 pages.
Taiji Jian. By Dr. Peter Kindfield. 15Kb.
Experiences and practice.
Taijiquan 32 Sword
Standard Form: Bibliography, Links, Quotes, Notes
Taiji Sword.
Peter Lim. 10 Kb.
Taiji
Sword. By Chen, Wei-Ming. Translated by Barbara Davis.
North Atlantic Books,
2000. 100 pages. ISBN: 1556433336.
Taiji Sword (Jian):
Links, bibliography, quotes, notes.
Taiji
Sword, Classical Yang Style: The Complete Form, Qigong and Applications.
By Yang, Jwing-Ming. Edited by James C. O'Leary. Boston, Mass., YMAA Publications,
1999. Index, glossary, list of form postures, 205 pages. ISBN: 1886969744.
VSCL.
Taiji
Sword, Classical Yang Style: The Complete Form, Qigong and Applications.
Instructional VHS videotape. Presented
by Yang, Jwing-Ming. YMAA
Publications, 1999. 82 minutes. ISBN: 1886969817.
Taiji Sword in 5 Sections. Presented by Sam Masich. Two
instructional VHS videotapes. A 27 movement form developed by Sam Masich. Tape 1,
80 minutes, teaches the form. Tape 2, 70 minutes, teaches sword
sparring.
Taiji Swordplay
Presentation and demonstration by Master Wang Peisheng.
Taiji Swords - Makers, Manfactueres, Distributors, Vendors
Taoism: Links, Bibliography, Resources, Quotes
Tom, Philip.
Antique sword restoration and sword expert.
Taoist 8 Immortals Double-Edge Sword Form. Presented by George
Xu. Demonstrations and basic training. Instructional VHS videotape, 60
minutes.
The Thirteen Taiji Sword Techniques
13
Taijijian Techniques (13 Tai Chi Sword Techniques). Research by Miichael P.
Garofalo. Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way Research, Red Bluff,
California, 2008. 1. Ji 击 Strike,
hit, break attack, beat, stroke. 2.
Ci 刺 Trust, pierce, sting, prick, stab. Ge 割
Cut off, Divide, Block Off, Sever, Quarter, Obstruct, Scroll, Blocking.
4.
Xi
洗 Brush Off, Sweep Away, Wash Off, Clean Off.
5.
Chou
抽 Pull Out, Cut Out, Extract.
6. Dai
带 Carry, Leading,
Deflecting, Slicing, Lead, Carrying.
7. Ti 提
Upwards Stroke, Lifting Up, Lift, To Carry Up. 8. Dian
点 Point, Dot, Spot, Poke. 9. Peng
迸
Burst Forth,
Split Open, Tipping, Gush Out, Burst, Wardoff. 10.
Pi
劈
Split, Hack, Chop, Split Open, Chopping, Cut Apart, Split,
Splitting. 11. Jie
截
Cut Off, Stop, Obstruct, Cutting, Intercept. 12. Jiao
搅 Stir,
Stirring, Mix, Disturb, Agitate. 13. Ya
搅
Press, Pressing, Press Down, Push Down, Crush, Pressure.
32 Step Tai Chi Sword. By Jiang Jian-ye. Instructional VHS
videotape. Step
by step teaching and demonstrations. 90 minutes. Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
32 Sword Form,
Simplified, Yang Style, Taijiquan Jian. By Michael P. Garofalo.
This popular webpage includes a comprehensive
bibliography, scores of links to webpages; an extensive listing of the names and
name variations for each movement in English, Chinese, French, German, and
Spanish; a detailed analysis of
each posture and movement sequence with explanations and numbered illustrations
and detailed
instructions; selected
quotations; comments on 20 Taijiquan sword techniques; a comprehensive media bibliography;
a chart of performance times; and, a comparison of the 32 and
55 sword forms in the Yang style.
This is the standard, simplified, orthodox,
1957, 32 Taiji Sword Form, in the Yang Style of T'ai Chi Ch'uan. © Michael
P. Garofalo, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California,
January 2008. 245Kb+.
Traditional Bagua Sword. Presented by Jiang
Jian-ye.
Instructional VHS videotape, 121
minutes. Step by step instructions,
multiple views,
demonstrations. Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
A 37 posture form created by Grandmaster Liu Jingru.
Ultimate
Guide to Tai Chi. (The Best of Kung-Fu Magazine). Edited by John
R. Little and Curtis F. Wong. Chicago, IL, Contemporary Books, 2000.
301 pages.
ISBN: 0809228335. VSCL.
"Understanding the T'ai Chi Sword." Transcripts from a lecture
and interview
with Christopher Pei. Edited by Shelagh Grandpierre. T'ai Chi
International
Magazine of T'ai Chi Ch'uan, Vol. 23, No. 6, pp. 16-21.
The Unfettered Mind: Writings of the Zen Master to the Sword Master. By
Soho, Takuan. Translated by William Scott Wilson. Tokyo, Kodansha
International, 1988. ISBN: 087011851X.
Videotapes on Taijiquan
Sword. Wayfarer Catalog. Distributes videotapes
by Jiang Jian-ye, Paul Lam, Wang Ji Yung, Shou-Yu Liang, Doc-Fai Wong, Geroge Xu, Lu Yuzhi, Ren Guang Yi.
The Way of Kendo and Kenjitsu: Soul of the Samurai. By Darrell Max Craig.
YMAA Publications, 2003. 320
pages. ISBN: 1594390029.
Where can I purchase these books and videotapes?
WuDang
Taiji Jian 101 Kb. In Spanish.
Wu Dang San Feng Tai Chi Sword. Presented by Jiang Jian-ye. Instructional VHS videotape. 19 form set. Step by step teaching, multiple views, and demonstrations. 117 minutes. Website: Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
Wudang Sanfeng Taiji Sword Video
Wu Dang Sword: Bibliography, Links, Quotes,
Resources, Notes, Lessons
Wu Dang Tai Chi Sword - Traditional. Presented by Jiang Jian-ye. Instructional VHS videotape. This form was created by Grandmaster Li Tian-Ji and named after Wu Dang
Mountain. Step by step teaching, multiple views, and demonstrations. 120 minutes. Website: Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
Wu Dang Wuji Sword 30 Forms - Traditional. Presented by Jiang Jian-ye. Instructional VHS videotape, 120 minutes. Step by step teaching, multiple views, and demonstrations. Website: Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
Wu/Hao Style Tai Chi Sword, Traditional. Presented by Jiang
Jian-ye. One instructional VHS videotape, 120 minutes. Step by step instructions,
multiple views,
demonstrations. A 25 posture sword form. Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
Wu Style Tai Chi Sword - Traditional. Presented by Jiang
Jian-ye.
Two instructional VHS videotapes. Step by step instructions, multiple
views,
demonstrations. Part 1, 120 minutes. Part 2, 120
minutes. Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
Xing Yi Quan: Bibliography, Links, Resources, Quotes
Xing-Yi Sword. Presented by Jiang Jian-ye.
Part of the Traditional Xing-Yi I Chuan
Series. Two
instructional VHS
videotapes. Step by step instructions, multiple views,
demonstrations. Tape
1, 120 minutes, postures 1-28. Tape 2, 120 minutes, postures
29-58. Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
Yang Style Taijiquan Swordsmanship
The following two webpages have replaced this section. They provide more extensive information on Yang Style Sword forms:
Classical Yang Style Taijiquan Sword Form, 55 Movements: Bibliography, Links, Media, Resources, Quotations, List of Movements. By Michael P. Garofalo, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California. November 2007.
Orthodox Simplified Taijiquan Sword
Form, 32 Movements: Biography, Links, Media, Resources, List of Movements,
Explanation and Analysis of all 32 movements with illustrations. By
Michael P. Garofalo, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way Research, Red Bluff,
California. November 2007.
Chinese Swordsmanship: The Yang Family Taiji Jian Traditions. By Scott M. Rodell. Annandale, Virginia, Seven Stars Books and Video, 2003. 304 pages. Introduction, sword traditions, history, safety, Yang classical form and Michuan Taiji fighting system. Review ISBN: 0974399906. MGC. The Michuan Jian form is meticulously described and photographed and applications shown on pages 73-184, and the Public Yang Jian is likewise described on pages 185-257. Applications and swordplay with partners are covered. The basic Jian cuts are explained on pages 41-64.
Classical
Tai Chi Sword. By Petra Kobayashi, Toyo Kobayashi, and Chiang Tao Chi.
Charles E. Tuttle, 2003. 176 pages. ISBN: 0804834482.
International Center for the
Healing Arts. Port Townsend, WA. Michael
Gilman Yang style Taijiquan hand and weapons forms. Instructional
videotapes and DVDs, books, and numerous excellent on-line classes are offered.
International
Taiji Sword Festival 2002 DVD format. Directed by Mark
Zimmer. 2002. Great
River Taoist Center. 100 Minutes. ASIN: B0001YINXG. Useful for
those studying the Yang Family Michuan Taiji Jian system and Scott M. Rodell's book. Mr.
Rodell demonstrates
the form. Also includes the "miaodao" form for two-handed
saber.
List of 55 Movements - Yang Style Taijiquan Sword Form
List of 32 Movements - Yang Style Taijiquan Sword Form
Origin of
Yang Family Jian. By Dave Chesser.
"T'ai Chi Ch'uan, Sword, Saber, Staff and Dispersing-Hands Combined." By
Chen Yen-lin.
Originally published in China in 1932. Based on writings compiled by Wu
Ho-ching who
was a scholar and student of Yang Lu-chan (1799 - 1872). These written
works were obtained by Chen Yen-lin (1906 - ?) from the famous Yang Cheng-fu (1883 -
1936). This book was very popular in China, helped spread the Yang style Tai Chi Chuan
widely, and opened the doors to publishing about internal arts forms. This book
has been compiled and translated by Stuart Alve Olson and published by Dragon Door Publications as the Chen Kung Series, Volumes 1 -5.
T'ai Chi
Thirteen Sword: A Sword Master's Manual. By Stuart A.
Olson. Translations by Stuart Olson. Burbank, CA, Unique Publications, 1998. 258 pages. ISBN: 1892515148. VSCL. Detailed
description and charts
for the 61 Movement Yang Style sword form.
Taiji
Sword and Other Writings . By Chen, Wei-Ming. Translated by Barbara Davis. Berkeley, California, North Atlantic Books,
2000. Bibliography, 93 pages. VSCL. ISBN: 1556433336.
Taiji
Sword, Classical Yang Style: The Complete Form, Qigong and Applications.
By Yang, Jwing-Ming. Edited by James C. O'Leary. Boston, Mass., YMAA Publications,
1999. Index, glossary, list of form postures, 205 pages. ISBN: 1886969744.
VSCL.
Taiji Sword, Classical Yang Style: List of
55 Movements
Taiji
Sword, Classical Yang Style: the Complete Form, Qigong and Applications.
Instructional VHS videotape. Presented
by Yang, Jwing-Ming. YMAA
Publications, 1999. 82 minutes. ISBN: 1886969817. VSCL.
Thirteen Yang Taiji Sword Techniques
32 Standard Sword
Form - Yang Style
Traditional Yang Style Taiji Sword. This instructional videotape
features Yang Zhen Dou, 4th generation Yang family, son of Yang Cheng-fu, and Yang Jun, 6th generation, grandson of Yang Zhen
Duo. There is now an "English Version" of this VHS videotape,
180
minutes, from United States Wushu Academy, 7521 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church, VA 22042,
Phone:
703-698-8182.
Valley Spirit Center Taijiquan,
Red Bluff, California. Michael P. Garofalo, Instructor.
VSCL: Valley Spirit Center Library
Yang
Family Michuan Taiji Sword Martial Applications. Directed by
Mark Zimmer.
Instructional DVD, 59 minutes. Great River Taoist Center, 2003.
ISBN: B0001KCPFC.
Featuring Scott Rodell.
Yang Style T'ai Chi Ch'uan: Links, bibliography,
quotes, lists, resources.
Yang Style Taiji Straight
Sword. By Ted W. Knecht. 17Kb.
Yang Style Tai Chi Sword. Presented by Jiang Jian-ye. Instructional
VHS videotape.
Step by step teaching of the 67 posture Yang sword form. Demonstrations
with
multiple views, normal and slow speeds. 120 minutes. Website: Jiang's
Tai Chi Videos.
Yang Style Tai
Chi Sword and Broadsword. The performance of the Tai Chi falchion
(saber)
and the Tai Chi Swordplay in this DVD is explained and demonstrated by Yang
Zhenduo, the 4th-generation exponent of Yang style Tai Chi Chuan and the routine is
demonstrated by Mr. Yang Jun, the 6th-generation exponent. It is the best model to follow
in learning the play of typical Yang style Tai Chi Falchion and the Tai Chi Swordplay.
Instructional DVD,
63 minutes. English and Chinese soundtrack with subtitles. Available
from Tai Chi Depot.
Yang Style Taijiquan Saber (Dao)
Yang Taiji Jian
List of movements. PDF
format
Yang Style Tai Chi Sword, Classical, List of Movements, 55 Movements
”Classical
Tai Chi Chuan Sword, Taijiquan Jian 55 in the Yang Style: Comparison of Names
or Descriptions for the 55 Movements.” Green Way Research, Red Bluff, California, January 2008.
By Michael P. Garofalo. This document includes a detailed listing of the
names or brief descriptions of the 55 movements of the Classical Taijiquan Straight Sword
Form in the Yang Style of Taijiquan. This document includes names or brief descriptions
for each movement in English, Romanized Chinese (Pinyin and/or Wade Giles),
Chinese characters, Spanish, French, and German. The document
includes source citations and a bibliography. In PDF format, print only,
267Kb,
34 pages:
Webpage:
http://www.egreenway.com/taichichuan/Classical Taijiquan Yang Sword Form 55 List
Detailed.pdf
Yang
Style Taji Sword. Presented by Yang Zheng-Duo as well as two
demonstrations of the complete form by Yang Jun. Instructional DVD. Explained
by Yang Zhengduo, the 4th-generation exponent of Yang style Taijiquan. Includes some
demonstrations by his grandson, Yang Jun. Explanation in Mandarin by Yang Zhengduo.
English language voice translation by Christopher Pei. Made in China. 98 minutes, in
color. Distributed by:
Source
1, Source 2, Source
3, Source
4, Source 5.
Yang Zhengduo is the son of
Yang Cheng-Fu; and Yang Jun is the grandson of Yang Zheng-duo.
Yang Taijiquan Sword
Form, 55 Movements: Bibliography, Links, Media, Resources, Quotations, List
of Movements. By Michael P. Garofalo, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way
Research, Red Bluff, California. November 2007.
Orthodox Simplified Taijiquan Sword
Form, 32 Movements, In the Yang Style: Biography, Links, Media, Resources,
List of Movements, Explanation and Analysis of all 32 movements with
illustrations. By Michael P. Garofalo, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Green Way
Research, Red Bluff, California. November 2007.
Yojimbo.
Directed by Akira Kurosawa. Starring Toshiro Mifune. 1961.
ASIN: 6303202055.
Zatoichi,
the blind master swordsman
in Japan, played by
Shintaro Katsu.
Zen and Confucious in the Art of Swordsmanship. By Richard
Krammer. London,
Routledge & Kegan Pau, 1978.
Zen and Japanese Culture. By Suzuki, Daisetsu. Princeton, New
Jersey,
Princeton University Press, 1970. 502 pages. ISBN: 0691017700.
Two chapters on
swordsmanship.
Zen and the Ways. By Trevor Legget. London, Routledge and
Kegan Pau, 1978.
Return to the Main Index on this Webpage
Videos Online - Taijiquan Straight Sword (Jian) or Broadsword (Dao)
32 Movement
Taijiquan Straight
Sword (Jian) Form in the Yang Style, Onine Videos
Classical Yang Taijiquan Straight Sword (Jian), 55 Movements, Online Videos
Broadsword (Dao) Form in the Yang Style, Online Videos
Broadsword (Dao) Form in the Chen Style, Online Videos
Return to the Main Index on this Webpage
Swords
Chinese
Straight
Double-Edged Sword (Jian) and Single-Edged Broadsword (Dao)
Sword Manufacturers, Makers, Collectors
Sword and Saber
Dealers, Distributors, Vendors, Retailers
Antique Arms and Armour. Seven Stars Trading Company. Scott Rodell.
CAS Iberia: Swords, Knives and Weapons
Chinese Arms. Alex Huangfu of Huangfu Antique Arms
Chinese Willow Leaf Sword TherionArms Replica
888 - Broadswords, Swords, Knives
Sun Moon Qiankun Competition Broadsword (Wushu Dao) Various sizes
Swords Direct: Swords, Daggers, Armor, Medieval and Renaissance Weapons
Tai Chi Swords1 Swords 2 Superior Martial Arts Supplies
Tianyang, Chen. Taiwanese traditional swordsmith.
Traditional Chinese Weaponry House
Return to the Main Index on this Webpage
Quotations
T'ai Chi Ch'uan Sword, Taijiquan Jian
"The modern student has many reasons to learn the swords of t'ai chi
ch'uan. It is a developmental exercise teaching relaxation and extension of energy. The sword practice can be a tool
for developing harmony in one's mind and body. It is a method for exercising the upper body. The form can be a
way to improve empty-hand t'ai chi skills. And, perhaps most importantly, they can add a new dimension to one's
t'ai chi
training by linking the student with the history and culture of the art."
- Harvey Kurland, The
Sword of T'ai Chi Ch'uan
"The sword represents a symbolic system representing justice and
fairness,
dignity and honor. The swordplay is characterized by the balanced body
positions
and all-around defense and offense techniques. In swordplay, the smooth
body
movements, the lightning thrusting and dazzling swings, are synchronized into
a fluid rhythm. Sword, "the king of all weapons," was used by
millions of soldiers
and warriors all over the world for centuries."
- Xiao J. Li, T'ai Chi Symbol and Sword Postures,
2000.
"This weapon appeared rather late in the Taiji repertoire being first
taught in Beijing. The manuals of Wu Yu Xiang do not record a sword form even though there is a sword form in
the current Wu Yu Xiang style syllabus. The manual only records the sabre and the spear/staff,
this would be in keeping with the times where the sword had already played a lesser role in
combat having largely been replaced by the sabre. The form that was handed down by the Yangs was
recorded by in pictorial form by Chen Wei Ming who had studied under Yang Cheng Fu and by Chen
Yan Ling who had studied under Tien Shao Ling who was a student of Yang Chien Hou and
Yang Shao Hou. The form recorded by both are by and large identical and remains the most
extant traditional form of Yang Taiji sword in practice today."
- Peter Lim, Taiji
Sword
"Weapons at best are the tools of bad omen;
Loathed and avoided by those of the Way."
- Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching
"To practice the Tai Chi Sword correctly, the first thing a practitioner
must be able to do is to have a flexible body and wrist so that the sword and the body will coordinate and move in unity. The
second thing is that the intent should direct each movement so that all the movements have applications, speed
and accuracy. The third thing is to have spirit and natural breathing in each movement. I n usage, it also
emphasizes the concepts of sticking and adhering, running and following. In summary, in order to practice the
Tai Chi Sword correctly, a practitioner must execute all the movements in an even, soft, continuous and smooth manner.
All the movements are initiated by the waist, controlled by the wrist, with the upper and lower parts of the
body coordinated so that when one part of the body moves, all parts follow. When one part stops, all stop. Therefore,
all the movements are very light, speedy, flexible, nimble and stable. People often describe these kinds of
motions as like a "swimming dragon and flying phoenix."
- Vincent Chu, Gin
Soon Tai Chi Chuan Federation Tai Chi Sword Practice
"Professor Cheng said that the Tai Chi Chuan he practiced was like a
tripod: the
form, push hands, and the sword. The goal of swordplay is to combine our
Tai Chi quality of stable, heavy rooted-ness with rapid movement. Be as solid as a
tree but quick as a cat. Work to develop a sense of root even when the form has
you leaping off the ground. The ch'i sets the sword in motion. After
that, like a hawk sailing on wind currents, let the sword ride the currents of gravity and
centrifugal force."
- Wolfe Lowenthal, Gateway to the Miraculous, 1994, p.
26.
"To tell the quality of a person’s tai chi forms, we need to examine the following:
(1) The angles of the body when performing each posture and the transitions between each movement; (2) the pace of the movements; (3) the height of each posture.
A person is considered a good practitioner when he/she can carry out every movement gracefully, with coordination and precision. A good tai chi practitioner keeps the almost same height during the execution of the form. He/she does not bob up and down. The ending form finishes in the place the opening form began.
The form is practiced in a constant and regular pace. The movements of the limbs should be coordinated with the waist.
All postures should be erect, coordinated, continuous, flowing, and balanced throughout the forms. The whole body should be relaxed. Each posture demostrated Eight Balances: 1. Top and Down balance; 2. Front and Back blance; (3) Left and Right balance; 4. Inside and Outside balance. These Eight Balances or Harmonies come from Taoism, the foundation of Tai Chi."
- Cheng Zhao, Ph.D, Terre Haute, Indiana, Tai Chi Sword
Disclaimer
Warning: Practicing with Sword Weapons Can Be a Dangerous
Activity for Adults. Please Use Caution!
The Sword of Wisdom
Ever since the adepts handed on
The secret of the sword,
The true imperative has been upheld
Completely, truly adamant.
If someone asks me about
Looking for its origin,
I say it is not ordinary iron.
This lump of iron
Comes from receptive stillness;
When you obtain it, it rises up.
Forging it in a glowing fire,
Through repeated efforts
It is refined
And forged into steel.
When students of the Tao
Know this secret,
The spirit of light is intensely powerful,
And devils of darkness vanish.
The subtle function of spiritual work
Is truly hard to measure;
I now give an explanation for you.
In telling you about it
I divulge the celestial mechanism.
Setting to work when one yang comes back,
First have the six yangs pump the furnace bellows;
Then the six yins work the tongs and hammer.
When the work of firing is complete,
It produces the sword;
When it is first done,
It flashes like lightning.
Brandish it horizontally
And a cold clear breeze arises;
Hold it upright,
And the shining bright moon appears.
Auspicious light illumines heaven and earth;
Sprites and ghosts are distressed.
It stops turbidity, brings out clarity,
Sweeps away weird defilements;
It slays volatility,
Cuts down aggressiveness,
Destroys monsters:
Influences draining away
Vitality, energy and spirit
All vanish in the light of the sword.
Entanglements are cut off, rumination dies down,
And the web of feelings is rent asunder.
Where the spiritual edge is aimed, mountains crumble;
The demon kinds of mundane planes are all routed.
This precious sword fundamentally has no form;
The name is set up because it has spiritual effect.
Learning the Tao and practicing reality
Depend on this sword:
Without this sword,
The Tao cannot be achieved.
Opening up the vast darkness,
Distinguishing heaven and earth,
Dissolving obstructions, transmuting objects -
All is included.
If you ask me to show it to you,
I bring it out before you -
Do you understand or not?
- The
Book of Balance and Harmony
Translated by Thomas Cleary, 1989, p. 115-117
Ace of Swords
Aleister Crowley, Thoth Tarot Deck,1969
Ordo Templi Orientis
Painted by Lady Frieda Harris
U.S. Games Systems, Inc.
"The same principles of the basic t'ai chi ch'uan form are used with
both the tao and chien: natural breathing, body upright, keeping the movements integrated,
coordinated, and flowing smoothly, etc. he difference is in the focus. For the tao, the
broadsword, the focus is on the blade. For the chien, the narrow, double-edged sword, the
focus is on the tip. The chien is considered the higher art form, and is more difficult
to learn. The tao is basically a chopping and slicing weapon; little skill is needed for that.
It was generally the weapon of the common soldier. The chien was used by the more
scholarly
and aristocratic Chinese. ... Sword tai chi is a very rewarding experience
at any level.
It’s movements, done correctly, develop one’s awareness, timing, grace, and
continued good health"
- Dorothy A. Odsen, Tai
Chi Chien
"The straight sword is a beautiful ancient weapon first mentioned in China's oldest written records and deserves a little indulgent aside all to itself, particularly as it is the weapon most associated with Tai Chi and with Daoism in general.
The straight sword is a flexible blade which is not able to meet force with force, instead the blade is used to deflect and redirect blows before delivering a slash or stab of its own. This nature of the weapon lends itself naturally to the principles of Tai Chi. It is so hard to master that it is often called the "King of Weapons" and perhaps for that reason was a weapon of choice for famous generals and scholars.
In fact there are two types of straight sword. The bigger heavier sword was called the martial sword (Wu Jian) or male sword (Xiong Jian) and had a sharp tip. The lighter shorter sword was called the scholar sword (Wen Jian) or female sword (Ci Jian) and had a slightly rounded tip. The martial sword was originally designed to be taken into battle but was not as practical in peace time, so the scholar sword was used instead as an everyday defence weapon. Traditionally every official and aristocrat would wear a sword to court.
The straight sword has a particular connection with Daoist religion. It is considered the only weapon able to banish evil spirits, so was always used in exorcism ceremonies. This is done to this day, the place of a real sword often taken by a special sword shape woven out of Chinese coins.
The Wudang Tai Chi sword is particularly famous and is often considered the
highest form of swordplay. It is often paired with Shaolin staff as the two
symbols of Chinese martial arts: Wudang Sword and Shaolin Staff, Internal and
External."
- Real Wushu Scholar,
Tai Chi Sword
"The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) saw publication of A New Treatise on
Disciplined Service (Jixiao xinshu) by General Qi Jiguang
(1528-1587). Qi's book included a chapter called the "Boxing Classic" (Quanjing).
In that chapter, Qi listed more than a dozen boxing styles. He
selected thirty-two moves from them and constructed an amalgamated routine.
The chapter includes pictures of the move and mnemonic rhymes about their
application. Qi noted that boxing was not of use against superior arms,
but was still useful for its discipline. The book also included an excerpt
of Yu Dayou's (1503-1580) treatise on weapons call the "Sword Classic" (Jianjing),
which exhibited concepts such as softness, listening, and sticking that we now
associate with taijiquan."
- Barbara Davis, The Taijiquan Classics, 2004, p. 4
Return to the Main Index on this Webpage
T'ai Chi Ch'uan 13 Straight Sword
Techniques
13 Taiji Jian Techniques or Energies
Taijiquan Straight Sword Techniques
Return to the Main Index on this Webpage
Yang
Sword Form
Yang Taijiquan Style Sword (Jian) 55 Movement Form
Return to the Main Index on this Webpage
Disclaimer
Warning: Practicing with Sword Weapons Can Be a Dangerous
Activity for Adults. Please Use Caution!
Red Bluff, Tehama
County, North Sacramento Valley, Northern California, U.S.A.
Cities in the area: Oroville, Paradise, Durham, Chico, Hamilton City, Orland,
Corning,
Rancho Tehama, Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Manton, Cottonwood,
Anderson, Shasta Lake, Palo Cedro, and Redding, CA
© Green Way Research, Valley Spirit Taijiquan, Michael P. Garofalo, 2008, All Rights Reserved. Red Bluff, California.
T'ai Chi Ch'uan Taijiquan Chien Jien
Jian Jen, Gim, Straight Sword
Taiji Jian, Taiji Sword, Taijijian, Chien, Jien, Sword, Jian, Jen
Straight Sword, TaiChi Knife,
Blade, Rapier
Chinese Swordsmanship, Swordplay, Fencing
Tai Chi Chuan, Taijiquan, T'ai Chi Ch'uan,
Tai Chi, Tai Ji Quan, Taiji, Tai Ji Chuan
Recommended Selected Reviews - Tai Chi Wushu Jian Sword Books, Videos, Videotapes, DVDs
