Chiburi
血振り
The symbolic shaking of blood off a Japanese sword's blade before returning it to its scabbard.
Quick Facts
CategoryEtiquette
Pronunciation/[chee-boo-ree]/
Definition
Chiburi is a ritual movement in martial arts that work with the katana, such as Iaido or Kenjutsu. It is performed immediately after a successful cut and symbolizes cleansing the blade. The movement must be sharp and elegant, with the sword coming to an abrupt stop so that imaginary blood is shaken off by centrifugal force. Only after performing chiburi does noto follow, that is, returning the sword to the saya (scabbard). This movement requires maximum zanshin, since the practitioner must remain ready for a possible further attack.