These days, I revisited “The Art of War,” which I had read in junior high school. I used to think that books on military strategy were dull, and I believed there was a vast difference between such texts and real-life situations. When I reluctantly finished the book for the first time, my naive notions dissipated like fleeting clouds, and I found myself captivated by the successful strategies and profound wisdom within. Revisiting the book now, I am gaining a fresh perspective. Below are my insights:
“The Art of War” is our country’s oldest and most outstanding military treatise. It was presented to King Helu of Wu by Sun Wu in 512 B.C., making its historical origin around that time. The author Sun Wu, also known as Sun Tzu, lived during the late Spring and Autumn period and was a prominent military and philosophical figure in Chinese history.
Organized into thirteen chapters with rigorous logical thinking, “The Art of War” elaborates on Sun Tzu’s principles of strategy, strategic methods, leadership principles, marching formations, tactics for change, the importance of timing and terrain, the use of spies, and the specialized tactic of fire attack. It reflects a straightforward materialistic and dialectical approach.
In life, everyone has their unique journey, facing both challenges and smooth paths, obstacles and flowers, tears and songs, pain and happiness, pitfalls and success. Choosing one’s path in life and how to navigate the uncertainties on that path are challenging life tasks.
Sun Tzu says, “The difficulty of military operations lies in changing and adapting, in shifting and turning.” (Military Operations) and “To capture the enemy without fighting is the acme of skill.” (The Nine Terrains) These statements convey the idea that the most challenging aspect of military strategy is turning disadvantages into advantages, transforming adversity into opportunity. Placing soldiers in perilous situations can lead to triumph, as illustrated by historical examples. This approach is equally applicable to life, where setbacks and failures can become opportunities for growth and success.
Sun Tzu advises, “Know yourself, know your enemy, and in a hundred battles, you will never be in peril. When you know the heavens and know the earth, you will be victorious a hundred times out of a hundred.” (Terrain) Understanding both oneself and the adversary, as well as the timing and terrain, ensures victory. Similarly, those who truly understand life will not lose their way. In life’s journey, one should not feel lost but rather move forward decisively without confusion or restriction. True understanding leads to a dynamic and unimpeded approach.
Sun Tzu’s teachings suggest that wise leaders must know themselves, know their adversaries, and understand the external factors influencing their situation. This knowledge enables strategic decision-making, ensuring that actions are dynamic and strategic. Applying Sun Tzu’s principles, a person who truly comprehends life will navigate their path with clear direction. In life’s journey, one may encounter setbacks and failures, but the ability to analyze and learn from these experiences leads to success.
Sun Tzu emphasizes the importance of having a clear purpose and direction in life. In the vast world of myriad opportunities, losing one’s life purpose can result in confusion, wandering aimlessly, and drifting with the tide. Maintaining a steadfast course along a predetermined direction is essential in life, just as in Sun Tzu’s military philosophy.
Sun Tzu’s wisdom, despite being over 2,500 years old, still resonates in the contemporary world. The enduring respect for its strategic and philosophical insights is rising globally, joining hands with Confucian culture to contribute to the world stage. It echoes a strong call for a harmonious world and collaborative efforts.
Revisiting this ancient text, it is evident that while it has limitations given its age, its profound insights into military strategy and philosophy resonate in the world today. Together with Confucius’ cultural values, it is contributing to the rise of our core ideology among the world’s nations, echoing a strong call for a harmonious world and collective cooperation!