In the writings of Shinkage Ryu swordsmanship there is an interpretation from the writings of the great Lao Zi (老子) commonly known as Lao Tzu:
"Good weapons are unfortunate instruments.
People hate them.
So someone with Tao does not rely on them.
Weapons are unfortunate instruments, and not the wise man's instruments.
When he uses them because there is no other choice, he stresses straight-forwardness and, in victory, does not praise himself."
Sometimes interpreted simply to:
"Weapons are unfortunate instruments. Heaven's Way abhors them. Using them when there is no other way - that is Heaven's Way."
This is a timeless observation on lethal weaponry. When protecting life, the sword becomes a salvation. Ironically the very opposite of its design and purpose (to efficiently take a life).
