godan verb (-ku), intransitive verb
bend a bow; shoot an arrow
Literally drawing a bow to shoot an arrow. Used in historical or martial contexts.
武士は戦の前に弓引く稽古をした。
The samurai practiced drawing a bow before battle.
godan verb (-ku), intransitive verb
rise up against; rebel against
Figurative extension: to turn one's weapon (bow) against a superior or authority. Archaic or literary feel; modern Japanese would more often use 反逆する or 歯向かう.
家臣が主君に弓引くことは許されなかった。
It was not permitted for a retainer to rebel against his lord.