ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Monk's spade

The monk's spade is a special tool used by Buddhist monks during their religious practices. It looks like a combination of a spade and a spear with a long handle and a flat, wide blade on one end and a pointed blade on the other.

The flat blade is used for digging and tilling the soil in the monastery's garden to grow vegetables and fruits, which are used to feed the monks and visitors. It is also used for sweeping the floors and removing debris from the temple courtyard.

The pointed blade, on the other hand, is used for trimming branches and cutting grass. It is also used as a weapon to defend the temple and its inhabitants if needed.

Although the monk's spade is primarily used as a tool, it is also considered a symbol of discipline and diligence in the Buddhist community. It represents the monks' commitment to hard work and service to others, as well as their readiness to defend their community if necessary.

In addition to its practical use, the monk's spade has also been featured in traditional Chinese martial arts and is considered a valuable weapon in combat. However, for Buddhist monks, the tool's true value lies in its spiritual significance rather than its combat capabilities.
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