Thus it may be known that the leader of armies is the arbiter of the people’s fate, the man on whom it depends whether the nation shall be in peace or in peril.
Sun Tzu’s Art of War is a renowned treatise on military strategy, studied by military leaders and business executives alike. The second chapter of the book deals with the management of resources during a war campaign, and the importance of avoiding prolonged warfare. The 20th verse of the chapter highlights the crucial role of the leader of armies in determining the fate of a nation.
Sun Tzu emphasizes that the leader of armies must prioritize victory above all else, rather than engaging in lengthy campaigns. Victory is the ultimate goal, and the leader must make every effort to achieve it quickly and efficiently. A prolonged campaign can lead to exhaustion of resources, lack of morale, and eventually, defeat.
Furthermore, the leader of armies is the person who holds the fate of the people in his hands. His decisions and actions during a war campaign will determine whether the nation will be in peace or peril. It is, therefore, crucial for the leader to have a clear vision and sound judgment, and to lead his army with wisdom and courage.
The verse also implies that the leader of armies must be aware of the consequences of prolonged warfare. A long campaign can drain the resources of the state, impoverish the people, and cause heavy exactions on the peasantry. The longer the war, the greater the loss of the people’s substance and the higher the government’s expenses. This can ultimately lead to the collapse of the state.
In conclusion, Sun Tzu’s Art of War teaches us the importance of wise leadership and efficient resource management in a war campaign. The leader of armies must prioritize victory and avoid prolonged warfare, to prevent the exhaustion of resources and the collapse of the state. The fate of the nation is in the hands of the leader, and his decisions and actions during the campaign will determine the future of the people.
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.