Why do Assassins wear the hidden blade on the left hand?

Why Do Assassins Wear the Hidden Blade on the Left Hand?

Throughout the Assassin’s Creed video game franchise, one intriguing aspect of the Assassin characters is their use of a hidden blade, a sword that can be concealed on their body. The primary question that arises is why do Assassins wear the hidden blade on their left hand? In this article, we will delve into the reasoning behind this convention and explore the significance of the left hand in the Assassin’s Creed universe.

Historical Significance of the Left Hand

In the Assassin’s Creed series, the left hand is considered sacred and revered. According to the franchise’s lore, the ancient Assassin’s Creed, inscribed on the walls of the Assassin’s Temple in Constantinople, states, "The left hand is the hand of life, the right hand is the hand of death". This ancient dictum highlights the importance of the left hand in the Assassin’s Creed, linking it to life, growth, and creation.

Practicality and Ambidexterity

Another aspect to consider is the practicality of wearing the hidden blade on the left hand. Assassins are often depicted as highly skilled and ambidextrous, allowing them to wield the hidden blade with ease, regardless of the situation. Wearing it on the left hand provides a neutral stance, allowing the Assassin to access the blade from either the left or right side. This ambidexterity enables Assassins to adapt to various combat situations, making them formidable opponents.

Brotherhood Tradition

The tradition of wearing the hidden blade on the left hand is a deeply rooted habit within the Assassin Brotherhood. From the earliest iterations of the franchise, prominent Assassins like Altaïr ibn-La’Ahad, Ezio Auditore da Firenze, and Connor Kenway have all worn the hidden blade on their left hands. This consistency in their attire reflects the Brotherhood’s emphasis on tradition, honoring the sacrifices of their ancestors, and maintaining a unified identity.

Ring Finger Sacrifice

In an effort to enhance their swordsmanship, Assassins often sacrifice their ring fingers to gain greater dexterity and strength. This sacrifice allows the Assassin to develop a greater connection with their hidden blade, becoming an extension of their body. Wearing the hidden blade on the left hand, where the ring finger is typically the most dexterous, enables the Assassin to tap into this enhanced dexterity.

Left-Handed Advantage

In hand-to-hand combat, Assassins often employ various stances and techniques to counter their opponents. The left hand, being stronger and more dominant, becomes the primary hand for throwing punches, kicks, and other close-range attacks. Wearing the hidden blade on the left hand positions it in a way that allows for swift and seamless deployment, giving the Assassin a decisive advantage in combat.

Conclusion

Wearing the hidden blade on the left hand is an integral aspect of the Assassin’s Creed universe, grounded in historical significance, practicality, Brotherhood tradition, ring finger sacrifice, and left-handed advantage. Whether it’s Altaïr, Ezio, Connor, or Eivor, the left hand has remained a constant symbol of Assassin identity, reflecting their skill, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to their creed.

References:

• Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection (2016) – PlayStation 4 and Xbox One
• Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey (2018) – PlayStation 4 and Xbox One
• Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood (2011) – PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360