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Originally Posted by B.I
I remember a discussion with a Sikh collector, who came across as an authority. He told me the reason that Sikhs put their inscriptions on the inner knucklebow, and not on the blade (or a place of show) was because they fought the British in the 19thC, and by then, our technology in telescopic equipment was so advanced, that we could look across a battlefield, and pick out a leaders name on the blade, and single him out!
I was amazed at this insight. Not only at this individuals level of knowledge, but at the intelligence of his ancestors, and the keen eyesight of the British.
So Jens, maybe the placing of your inscriptions was so the owner could charge into a battlefield, pointing his sword forward and displaying this curse to dispell any telescope-carrying invader.
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What's interesting is that according to your source this is a practice of the Sikh, since their religion specifically forbids them from trafficking in black magic. From a website on the Sikh religion:
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3.A Sikh should have no dealings with caste, black magic or superstitious practices, such as, the seeking of auspicious moments, echpses the practicd’of feeding Brahmins in the belief that the food will go to one’s ancestors. Ancestor-worship, fasting at differing phases of the moon, the wearing of sacred thread and similar rituals.
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So apparently the inscription is a description of the quality of the blade, and not a charm meant to enhance it. Either way, a fine sword!