Sun Tzu – The Art of War 8.1

In war, the general receives his commands from the sovereign, collects his army and concentrates his forces.

Sun Tzu’s Art of War is not only a military treatise but also a guide for effective leadership in all aspects of life. One of the key principles emphasized in the book is the importance of proper organization and planning.

In the opening line of Chapter 8, Sun Tzu states that the general, who is the leader of the army, receives his commands from the sovereign. This means that the general is not an independent entity but is accountable to the ruler or leader of the state. The general must follow the sovereign’s orders and act in accordance with the overall strategic goals of the state.

The second part of the line instructs the general to collect his army and concentrate his forces. This means that the general must gather his troops and resources, and focus them on achieving the objective set by the sovereign. Concentrating the army’s forces means bringing them together to create a powerful and unified force, which can overwhelm the enemy.

The importance of proper organization and planning cannot be overstated in warfare. The general must have a clear understanding of the mission and objectives, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of his own forces and those of the enemy. The general must also take into account the terrain, weather, and other factors that can affect the outcome of the battle.

Sun Tzu stresses that proper organization and planning are critical for success in warfare. The general who neglects these aspects will likely suffer defeat on the battlefield. On the other hand, a general who is organized and prepared, and who follows the orders of the sovereign, is more likely to achieve victory.

This principle can be applied not only in warfare but also in other areas of life. Proper organization and planning are essential for success in business, education, and personal relationships. Leaders must be accountable to their superiors and must work to achieve the objectives set by their organizations.

In conclusion, the opening line of Chapter 8 of Sun Tzu’s Art of War emphasizes the importance of proper organization and planning in warfare. The general must receive commands from the sovereign, collect his army, and concentrate his forces. These principles are equally applicable in other areas of life and can lead to success in any endeavor.