But if neither time nor place be known, then the left wing will be impotent to succor the right, the right equally impotent to succor the left, the van unable to relieve the rear, or the rear to support the van. How much more so if the furthest portions of the army are anything under a hundred LI apart, and even the nearest are separated by several LI!
In Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War,” the importance of knowing the time and place of battle is emphasized. However, what happens when this knowledge is not available? In Chapter 6, Verse 20, Sun Tzu highlights the difficulties that arise when neither the time nor the place of battle is known.
In such a scenario, the army is likely to be separated by a great distance, and the different parts of the army will be unable to provide support to each other. The left wing will not be able to help the right, and vice versa. The van will not be able to support the rear, and the rear will not be able to help the van. The army will be in disarray, and the soldiers will be vulnerable to attack.
This verse emphasizes the importance of preparation and flexibility. In the absence of knowledge of the time and place of battle, the army must be prepared to move quickly and adapt to changing circumstances. They must be able to communicate effectively and coordinate their movements to avoid being caught off guard.
This verse also highlights the importance of scouting and reconnaissance. If the army can gather information about the enemy’s movements and intentions, they can adjust their strategy accordingly. They can position themselves in a way that maximizes their strengths and minimizes their weaknesses, giving them the best chance of success.
In modern times, this verse has relevance in many different contexts. It highlights the importance of being prepared for unexpected events and the need for flexibility and adaptability in the face of changing circumstances. It also emphasizes the importance of gathering and analyzing information to make informed decisions.
In conclusion, Chapter 6, Verse 20 of “The Art of War” reminds us that sometimes we may not have all the information we need to make decisions, and we must be prepared to act with incomplete knowledge. We must be flexible and adaptable, and we must be prepared to communicate and coordinate our actions to achieve our goals.
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.