Ada

The Ada is a symbol of authority usually borne in the presence of the Ọba by a designated holder, the Omada, which translates as ‘Ada bearer’. The Ọba has almost exclusive rights to the use of the Ada, except when he permits a chief to possess one. Therefore the Ada is greater than the Ebẹn.

The Ada is one of the two most common types of ceremonial swords found in the Kingdom of Benin. The shape of the blade is a main distinguishing characteristic of these ceremonial swords. Ada typically have a J-shaped blade, whereas Ebẹn have a blade similar in shape to an oar and which is sometimes perforated and/or decorated with brass inlays, most commonly in the shape of small Ebẹn and leopards. The blades of both Ada and Ebẹn are made from iron – however, the Ada often has a carved ivory or cast-brass-hafted handle. In contrast, the handle of the Ebẹn is unique in shape, with a large ring-shaped handle set at a ninety-degree angle from the flat blade. The distinctive shapes of these swords make them relatively easy to identify. However, a wider range of material, including other kinds of swords, knives and daggers, are less easily identifiable with specific terms.