Janbiya

The Jambia (also Jambiya, Arabic جمبية ​​jambiya, or DMG ǧambiya Dschanbiya / جنبية / ǧanbiya ) is a curved dagger that is worn in Arab countries, but especially in Yemen, as ornament on a belt.

Description

The blade is broad, double-edged and heavy. It is used to place the narrower issue and is slightly curved at the Ortbereich. She usually has a strong midrib. Some versions that come from certain manufacturing areas, have no midrib, but a flat blade. There are two different basic types: the Indian and the Arab Jambia .. A special feature of the jambias is the cut of the blade. Under magnification it can be stated that the cutting edge is peripherally provided with a serrated edge. The magazine is made of wood, horn, ivory or metal and metal mesh and has no parry. The booklet and the pommel are usually made ​​of one piece and fitted with large rivets that are used to ornament. The handle, which is often decorated with coins, there is the case of valuable remarks from the horn of the Giraffe or even the rhinoceros. The preciousness of the design serves the carriers as a status symbol. A Jambia is nevertheless at the same time an efficient fighting knife remained. The Jambia is available in different versions, distinguished by length, width, decoration and blade shape. Its tradition goes back to the pre-Islamic period. Another knife from this region is the Shafra.