Many swords are looked upon as having religious significance. An ancient sword with a decorated handle of carved horn is called  la'bo' pinae. It is assumed that these  la'bo' pinae  came down from heaven with the to manurun (ancestors). The blades of these swords are damascened, and the design of the inlay helps determine the value of the piece. Like the kandaure, these swords have proper names. Also like the bead ornaments, they are used for the rituals for the dead as well es during  rambu tuka' feasts (= feasts of the East). The manner of their use varies considerable. During the  maro and ma'bungi, these  la'bo' pinae are used to inflict blows or cuts during trance; in the course of the former feast they are also used as a symbol that dispels evil influences.

 

Source: THE SA'DAN-TORAJA by HETTY NOOY-PALM (http://batusura.de/swords.htm)