Sun Tzu – The Art of War 9.15

Country in which there are precipitous cliffs with torrents running between, deep natural hollows, confined places, tangled thickets, quagmires and crevasses, should be left with all possible speed and not approached.

Sun Tzu’s “The Art of War” provides invaluable insights for strategists in various domains. In passage 9.15, Sun Tzu advises caution when encountering challenging terrains, emphasizing the importance of avoiding certain types of landscapes. This guidance extends beyond warfare, offering lessons for life and business.

Decoding Sun Tzu’s Counsel

In passage 9.15, Sun Tzu imparts the following strategic wisdom:

Avoid Hazardous Terrains: Sun Tzu advises avoiding terrains characterized by precipitous cliffs, fast-flowing torrents, deep natural hollows, confined spaces, tangled thickets, quagmires, and crevasses. He emphasizes the need to leave such areas swiftly.

Implications in Military Strategy

Sun Tzu’s advice in this passage carries significant implications for military strategy:

1. Risk Assessment: Sun Tzu underscores the importance of assessing risks. Terrain laden with natural obstacles can be treacherous, and commanders must prioritize the safety of their troops.
2. Resource Allocation: Sun Tzu’s guidance highlights the need to allocate resources effectively. It may not be wise to commit valuable assets to navigate through challenging terrains when alternative routes are available.

Metaphorical Significance in Life

Sun Tzu’s counsel extends metaphorically to various aspects of life:

1. Risk Avoidance: In life, individuals encounter metaphorical “hazardous terrains” such as risky investments, toxic relationships, or uncertain ventures. Sun Tzu’s advice encourages avoiding situations fraught with unnecessary risks.
2. Resource Management: Sun Tzu’s wisdom prompts us to consider resource allocation in decision-making. It suggests that expending time, energy, or resources on overly challenging endeavors may not always yield favorable outcomes.

Conclusion

Sun Tzu’s teachings in passage 9.15 emphasize the importance of assessing risks and making strategic decisions when confronted with challenging terrains. Whether in military strategy or everyday life, the counsel to avoid hazardous terrains and allocate resources wisely remains relevant. Sun Tzu’s timeless wisdom encourages prudent decision-making in the face of adversity, ensuring that individuals and organizations navigate challenges effectively and safely.