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Perhaps the most potent expression of military authority in Japan was the armor of the samurai. A suit of armor such as this set provided both protection in battle and symbolic displays of identity, strength, and power. This suit of armor was probably never worn in battle since it was made during the relatively peaceful Edo period (1615–1868). It was probably used for ceremonies or displays. The Buddhist deity Fudō Myōō is depicted on the armor’s breastplate and helmet. Fudō Myōō, whose name means “the immovable one,” is believed to protect true followers of Buddhism from evil forces. His attributes are rich with symbols of conquest: the sword, the rope, and the halo of swirling fire each have powers, respectively, to cut through delusions, bind evildoers, and burn down obstacles on the path to enlightenment.