Sun Tzu – The Art of War 7.35

Do not swallow bait offered by the enemy. Do not interfere with an army that is returning home.

Sun Tzu’s Art of War is full of wisdom and strategy that can be applied in various situations, including modern-day scenarios. In chapter seven, verse 35, Sun Tzu provides two valuable pieces of advice for military leaders and decision-makers.

The first advice is to not swallow the bait offered by the enemy. This means that military leaders should not be lured into traps or tricked by the enemy’s deceptive tactics. Instead, they should be alert and think strategically to avoid falling into the enemy’s trap. In modern-day terms, this can be applied to situations such as negotiations, business deals, and politics. It is important to be aware of the other party’s motives and tactics and to approach the situation with a clear mind and strategic thinking.

The second advice is to not interfere with an army that is returning home. This means that after a battle or a conflict, it is important to let the enemy retreat and return to their homes. Interfering with their journey can lead to unnecessary conflict and can prolong the war. This can also be applied in modern times when dealing with conflicts or disputes. Once a conflict is resolved, it is important to let the opposing party go and move on to build a better relationship and prevent future conflicts.

In essence, Sun Tzu’s advice in this verse emphasizes the importance of strategic thinking, awareness of the enemy’s tactics, and the value of avoiding unnecessary conflict. These principles can be applied not only in military strategy but also in various aspects of life where strategic thinking and decision-making are required.