Hence his victories bring him neither reputation for wisdom nor credit for courage.
In Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War,” the 12th verse of the 4th chapter states, “Hence his victories bring him neither reputation for wisdom nor credit for courage.” This verse speaks about the true nature of a successful general in warfare. Winning battles and wars is important, but it is not the only measure of success. The general who wins with ease and efficiency, without creating unnecessary destruction or loss of life, is the one who is truly wise and courageous.
In warfare, it is easy to resort to brute force and violent methods to achieve victory. However, this often comes at a great cost to both sides, with many casualties and destruction. A clever fighter, as described by Sun Tzu, is one who can win battles and wars with minimal loss and destruction. Such a general is not only able to protect his own troops but also the population and infrastructure of the conquered lands.
The ultimate goal of a general should not only be to win battles but also to establish long-lasting peace and prosperity. If a general wins a war, but the resulting peace is unstable and short-lived, then it is not a true victory. Therefore, a clever fighter is one who is not only a master of tactics and strategy but also of diplomacy and peacebuilding.
In summary, the 12th verse of the 4th chapter of Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” reminds us that true success in warfare is not only about winning battles and wars, but also about doing so with wisdom, courage, and efficiency. The general who can achieve victory while minimizing the loss and destruction of life and property is the one who truly deserves credit and reputation.
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.