Traditional manufacture of a Khanjar

A Khanjar is a traditional ceremonial dagger, as still worn in Oman today. Originally, the dagger, whose blade is shaped like a J or a hook, was intended as a weapon for attack or defense, but today it is more of a ceremonial garment and a status symbol.

Materials used

The art of weapon smithing was highly perfected in the Arab countries during the Middle Ages. Just think of famous swords like the Damascus or other masterpieces of sword and dagger craftsmanship, and it quickly becomes clear that Arab master blacksmiths have made weapons like a Khanjar into one thing – a work of art. It also becomes clear why a Khanjar has always been something of a status symbol in a way. In earlier days, these weapons could be worn only by members of the Sultan's family. Today, any Omani man is allowed to wear a Khanjar. The Khanjar is always worn on the left, with the tip pointing to the right. The material that has actually been used says a lot about the status of the person. The handle of particularly valuable weapons was made of ivory. Today, most Khanjars have handles made of wood, plastic, or camel bone. Wood and bone were also historically the materials from which the handles of simpler Khanjars were made. How much gold and silver has been incorporated into the dagger itself shows how wealthy the owner of the Khanjar is.

Manufacturing – a matter between the smith and the owner

Traditionally, every Khanjar was designed by its future owner or by the one who wanted to present it as a gift to another man. Since there are no traditional materials for production, each client had to discuss with the smith the possibilities for creating an individual Khanjar. In addition to the handle and the double-edged blade, there is also something else that holds great significance for the Khanjar, namely the sheath and belt. For it is here too that one can see how wealthy the wearer is. Particularly high-quality Khanjars are worn in a leather sheath with a leather belt – both of which are naturally interwoven with gold and silver threads. Today, you can actually purchase Khanjars at almost all souks in the country. The merchants know that tourists regard the curved dagger as a symbol of Oman and are therefore willing to spend a little more for the ceremonial weapon. However, buyers often overlook that in many cases these are unfortunately cheap imitations from India. Those who want to acquire a truly good Khanjar should carefully examine the offered items and, if necessary, seek advice from a tour guide. Often, just having a plastic handle is already a sign of rather poor craftsmanship. Here, one should pay attention to ensure that it is a decorative wooden handle.