ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Sohei

Sohei were ancient Japanese warriors who were also known as Buddhist monks. These monks were known for being very strong and brave in battles. They wore special armor that made them look like samurai warriors, but their armor was a little different and had more religious symbols on it.

Like other monks, sohei lived in temples and spent most of their time praying and meditating. But, they would also train in fighting techniques and martial arts, so they could defend their temples from attacks.

Sohei were very important during feudal Japan, as temples were often targeted in battles. They fought with swords, staffs and bows and arrows, and also used other weapons like naginatas and spears.

However, over time, the government began to fear the growing power of the sohei and their temples, and eventually outlawed the use of weapons by monks. Today, the tradition of sohei no longer exists in Japan, but their legacy remains an important part of Japanese history and culture.