ABSTRACT
If we are to believe the Teppōki, the first outsiders to take an interest in the new teppō weapon were the martial Negoro monks.1 These monks were actually warriors rather than monks and remained so until Hideyoshi subdued them in 1585 and had them concentrate on more monastic activities. So we read in the Teppōki:
At this time a priest, Suginobō, at Negoro Temple2 in Kishū (Kii), who did not consider 1,000 ri far away, asked for one teppō. Tokitaka felt sympathy for the sincerity of the man’s request and, showing generosity, he said: ‘In ancient times the lord of Jo (Ch. Shu)3 took a liking to Kisatsu’s s (Ch. Chi-tsa) sword but did not dare to express his wish. Kisatsu, however, knew in his heart what he wanted and in the end gave him the precious sword. My island is certainly small, but why should I be attached to and begrudge one object? Further, I have myself obtained it without asking for it, and I cannot sleep out of happiness, having it hidden under ten wraps (jūshū).4 What is more, how could I be happy in my heart, if I were so selfish as to keep it when it is asked for? What I like, also others like. How can I then have it alone, well hidden and stored away?’ So he sent Tsuda Kenmotsu no jō to bring it and present it to Suginobō and to teach him how to prepare the wondrous powder and how to apply the fire.
