The general who is skilled in defense hides in the most secret recesses of the earth; he who is skilled in attack flashes forth from the topmost heights of heaven. Thus on the one hand we have ability to protect ourselves; on the other, a victory that is complete.
Sun Tzu’s The Art of War is a timeless masterpiece that provides insights into the art of strategy, warfare, and leadership. One of the most insightful sections of the book is Chapter 4, which deals with tactical dispositions. In this chapter, Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of understanding when to be defensive and when to be offensive. He emphasizes the need for generals to be skilled in both defense and attack to achieve a complete victory.
In verse 6 of this chapter, Sun Tzu states that standing on the defensive indicates insufficient strength, while attacking indicates a superabundance of strength. What he means is that when an army is forced to defend, it is because it lacks the strength or ability to take the offensive. Conversely, attacking implies that an army is confident in its abilities and has enough strength to overpower the enemy.
Sun Tzu further expands on this concept in verse 7, where he compares the general skilled in defense to one who hides in the most secret recesses of the earth, while the general skilled in attack flashes forth from the topmost heights of heaven. This illustrates the contrast between the two approaches, where the defensive general operates in the shadows, while the attacking general is bold and visible.
However, Sun Tzu also emphasizes that a complete victory is achieved when a general is skilled in both defense and attack. In verse 5, he writes that security against defeat implies defensive tactics, while the ability to defeat the enemy means taking the offensive. A general must have a solid defense to secure themselves against defeat, but they must also have the ability to attack to defeat the enemy.
A general must possess the ability to switch between defense and attack, depending on the situation. This requires a thorough understanding of the enemy, their strengths, weaknesses, and intentions, as well as an understanding of their own strengths and weaknesses. By understanding when to be defensive and when to be offensive, a general can outmaneuver their enemy and secure a complete victory.
In conclusion, Sun Tzu’s advice in Chapter 4 highlights the importance of understanding when to be defensive and when to be offensive. A general must possess the ability to switch between defense and attack, depending on the situation. A complete victory requires a balance between the two approaches, and a general must be skilled in both. By understanding the principles outlined in this chapter, leaders can apply them to various areas of life, including business, politics, and personal relationships, to achieve success.
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.