Talismanic Devices and Imbuements on Islamic Arms

Jim McDougall · 7th February 2019, 08:54 PM

It is sometimes hard to maintain discourse and perspective with regard to the talismanic condition as often various marks, devices, phrases etc. become regarded as indicators of quality, status and heritage. With this being the case it seems almost necessary at times to include variations and applications which might exceed the specific talismanic denominator.

In the case of the 'cintimani' device of three orbs I previously noted as found in hilt motif on a shamshir, this perhaps may not have been applied in a 'talismanic' sense per se', but more of a commemorative or honorific sense recalling tribal heritage from Tamerlane.

Still, the deeper origins of the symbol from ancient Buddhist and Hindu tradition and dogma carried profound talismanic properties and varying perception and application. This then became associated with Tamerlane, diffusing into various cultures and their material culture.

As people see this marking in materials, weapons, markings etc. many may see the Tamerlane, Turkic perspective.....while many may perceive the deeper religious and talismanic properties of ancient Buddhism and Hinduism. Here are the varied concepts that Ibrahiim refers to, and fascinating as we look into all of them as we evaluate the properties and character involved in these cases.

7th February 2019, 08:54 PM	#26
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,382	It is sometimes hard to maintain discourse and perspective with regard to the talismanic condition as often various marks, devices, phrases etc. become regarded as indicators of quality, status and heritage. With this being the case it seems almost necessary at times to include variations and applications which might exceed the specific talismanic denominator. In the case of the 'cintimani' device of three orbs I previously noted as found in hilt motif on a shamshir, this perhaps may not have been applied in a 'talismanic' sense per se', but more of a commemorative or honorific sense recalling tribal heritage from Tamerlane. Still, the deeper origins of the symbol from ancient Buddhist and Hindu tradition and dogma carried profound talismanic properties and varying perception and application. This then became associated with Tamerlane, diffusing into various cultures and their material culture. As people see this marking in materials, weapons, markings etc. many may see the Tamerlane, Turkic perspective.....while many may perceive the deeper religious and talismanic properties of ancient Buddhism and Hinduism. Here are the varied concepts that Ibrahiim refers to, and fascinating as we look into all of them as we evaluate the properties and character involved in these cases.