rule the realm by force; spread military might under heaven
Historical slogan and personal seal phrase of Oda Nobunaga from 1567 onward, expressing his ambition to unify Japan through military power. The literal meaning is 'spread military force under the heavens'. Used almost exclusively in historical contexts.
Oda Nobunaga used the seal 'Tenka Fubu' to show his will to unify the country.
'Tenka Fubu' was Nobunaga's slogan meaning to rule the realm by military force.
天下統一 is the general term for unifying the country, while 天下布武 specifically refers to Oda Nobunaga's militaristic slogan and seal.
A yojijukugo (four-character compound) originating from Oda Nobunaga's personal seal. The phrase combines 天下 (the realm, under heaven) with 布武 (spreading military force). The exact historical derivation is tied to Nobunaga's ambition and is well-documented in Japanese history.