Kensei

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In ancient Japan, a kensei (剣聖; sometimes alternatively rendered in English as Kensai, Ken Sai, Kansei, or Kenshei) was a honorary title given to a warrior of legendary skill in swordsmanship. The literal translation of "kensei" is "sword saint". Thus, the term is considered by some to imply a higher degree of perfection (possibly also encompassing a moral dimension) than the more commonly used kengō (剣豪) or "great sword."

Among the most famous kensei is Miyamoto Musashi (宮本武蔵), although not all would apply the term to him. Other historical kensei are often the founder of a popular school of swordsmanship. Although there is no such written rule, the title carries such prestige that it is commonly understood that there should be no more than one kensei at any given time.

[edit] Kensei in fiction

Kensei frequently appear in fiction, as their skill and morality make for sympathetic and interesting characters.

Spoiler warning: Plot and/or ending details follow.

Orlandu's job class in the game Final Fantasy Tactics is Kensei (called Holy Swordsman in the translation).
In Baldur's Gate 2, one of the fighter sub-classes is "Kensai". Kensai are outstanding fighters that gain bonuses to attack, damage, and weapon speed, but are not allowed to be of Chaotic alignment and may never use armour, shields, or bracers.
Dungeons & Dragons 3rd Edition offers the Kensai as a prestige class that is well-suited for monks, fighters and paladins.
In Shogun: Total War Mongol Invasion (and Warlord Edition), Kensais are trainable units consisting of only one gigantic soldier. This unit is easily able to defeat a unit of medium foot soldiers containing 60 men.
In Heroes, teleporting, time-traveling Hiro Nakamura learns that his "future self" has a katana of legendary power, once owned by a heroic samurai, referred to as Takezo Kensei. The story, as told to Hiro by his father in childhood, states that this warrior has great powers that he could not control - that is, not until he found and claimed this mysterious sword, sheathed in a field of ice. This katana bears an RNA-like symbol alluding to one of the TV series' themes, which is later defined as two Japanese characters fused into one: "Great Talent" and "Godsend".