Thus the highest form of generalship is to balk the enemy’s plans; the next best is to prevent the junction of the enemy’s forces; the next in order is to attack the enemy’s army in the field; and the worst policy of all is to besiege walled cities.
Sun Tzu’s Art of War is a timeless classic that has influenced military strategy for centuries. One of the most famous passages from this text is found in chapter three, verse three: “Thus the highest form of generalship is to balk the enemy’s plans; the next best is to prevent the junction of the enemy’s forces; the next in order is to attack the enemy’s army in the field; and the worst policy of all is to besiege walled cities.”
This passage contains several key insights into military strategy. First, it emphasizes the importance of outmaneuvering the enemy and disrupting their plans. A wise general must be able to anticipate the enemy’s moves and find ways to counter them. By throwing the enemy off balance, a skilled commander can gain the upper hand and win battles more easily.
Second, the passage highlights the value of preventing the enemy from consolidating their forces. By keeping the enemy divided, a general can prevent them from mounting a coordinated attack and reduce the overall strength of their forces. This can make it easier to defeat the enemy in detail and win battles more decisively.
Third, the passage suggests that attacking the enemy’s army in the field is a viable strategy, but only after other options have been exhausted. This underscores the importance of caution and strategic thinking. A good general must carefully weigh the risks and benefits of each option and choose the best course of action based on the situation at hand.
Finally, the passage warns against the folly of besieging walled cities. This is because it is often a slow and costly process that can drain a general’s resources and weaken their forces. It is usually better to find ways to outmaneuver the enemy and draw them out into the open where they can be defeated more easily.
Overall, this passage from Sun Tzu’s Art of War is a reminder that military strategy is a complex and multifaceted art. A wise general must be able to adapt to changing circumstances, anticipate the enemy’s moves, and choose the best course of action based on a careful analysis of the situation. By following these principles, a skilled commander can win battles and achieve victory on the battlefield.
Geoff Willis is an accomplished restaurateur and chef with over two decades in the culinary world, blending his passion for gastronomy with an extensive study of philosophy. Known for his innovative approach to cooking and deep commitment to sustainable practices, Geoff combines the art of flavors with philosophical insights, offering readers a unique perspective on food and life.