Many swords are looked upon as having religious significance. An ancient sword with a decorated handle of carved horn is called la'bo' pinae. It is assumed that these la'bo' pinae came down from heaven with the to manurun (ancestors). The blades of these swords are damascened, and the design of the inlay helps determine the value of the piece. Like the kandaure, these swords have proper names. Also like the bead ornaments, they are used for the rituals for the dead as well es during rambu tuka' feasts (= feasts of the East). The manner of their use varies considerable. During the maro and ma'bungi, these la'bo' pinae are used to inflict blows or cuts during trance; in the course of the former feast they are also used as a symbol that dispels evil influences.

Source: THE SA'DAN-TORAJA by HETTY NOOY-PALM

War swords (la'bo') and handle details.

la'bo', length 75 cm

New and old parang, machetes for daily use

Also refer to:

Decorated Toraja shield (pa'kolong)

Toraja warriors wearing the songkok. This helmet has iron projections in the shape of buffalo horns meant to deflect blows.

A private collection: Hunting spears (top), war spear, javelin, war spear and blowpipe (used with poisoned darts). These weapons have been used by the Toraja but are probably not of Toraja origin.

The strangest of all Toraja weapons is the padimpah. This lethal warfare instrument is fashioned of hardwood in boomerang shape, but it has a flat body and is terminated in tubular ends. The technique of using this weapon is today unknown.

Also refer to the Buntu Pune page where Al Tandirerung shows his antique warrior outfit.